The invention relates to a process for producing SiO2 granules by freezing and re-thawing an SiO2 suspension, wherein a separation of liquid and sediment composed of agglomerated SiO2 particles occurs in the course of thawing, the liquid removed is decanted and the residual moisture in the sediment is removed by a drying step with formation of the SiO2 granules. According to the invention, an auxiliary comprising alkali metal-free bases in the form of nitrogen hydrides is added to the suspension to set the pH greater than 7.