When converting the chilling time from a refrigerator to a freezer, it's essential to consider the temperature difference between the two appliances. The average refrigerator temperature is around 35-40°F (1.7-4.4°C), while the freezer temperature is typically set to 0°F (-18°C) or below.
To estimate the equivalent time to chill a drink in the freezer, you need to take into account the temperature differential and the desired final temperature of the drink.
Here's a rough guideline to help you estimate the equivalent time:
Determine the temperature difference: Let's assume your refrigerator is at 40°F (4.4°C), and your freezer is at 0°F (-18°C). The temperature difference is 40°F - 0°F = 40°F (4.4°C - -18°C = 22.2°C).
Calculate the equivalent time: The rate of cooling is generally proportional to the temperature difference. Therefore, if your recipe calls for 24 hours of chilling in the refrigerator (at 40°F), you can calculate the equivalent time in the freezer (at 0°F) as follows:
Equivalent time in the freezer = (Temperature difference in the freezer / Temperature difference in the refrigerator) x Chilling time in the refrigerator
Equivalent time in the freezer = (40°F / 40°F) x 24 hours ≈ 24 hours
Based on this rough estimate, you would need approximately 24 hours to chill the drink in the freezer, assuming a similar rate of cooling as in the refrigerator.
However, this is just an estimation. The actual time may vary depending on factors such as the initial temperature of the drink, the size of the container, the freezer's efficiency, and how well it circulates cold air. To get the best results, periodically check the drink's temperature in the freezer to ensure it reaches the desired level of chilliness.