If you’ve bought way too many peaches at the farmer’s market, you don’t have to eat all of them at once. Just learn how to freeze peaches and they’ll stay peach perfect for a whole year!
I don’t know about you, but I love peaches. There’s nothing like a ripe, juicy peach right off the tree.
But sometimes, you can’t get to the fruit fast enough and the peach season always seems to fly by so quickly. Plus, they start to rot quite quickly if left uneaten.
But if you’re anything like me and want to eat them all the time, then I’ve got some good news for you – you can freeze them! And the process is rather easy, too!
Here is a simple guide on how to freeze peaches so you can enjoy them all year round. Happy freezing!
How to Freeze Peaches
Step 1: Wash the peaches
Step 2: Cut the Peaches
- I like to cut peaches by running a paring knife around the middle. Then I split the peach in half and remove the pit.
- Once you get the two clean halves, slicing is much easier. Just run your knife over the meat to create thin slices, which you’ll later use for cobblers, smoothies, or other desserts.
- Don’t be a perfectionist – slices don’t have to be identical. Practice makes perfect, and you’ll get better at it which each attempt.
Step 3: Soak in Lemon & Water
- In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of lemon juice with 4 cups of water.
- You can use substitutes like ascorbic acid and water or a simple packet of Fruit Fresh.
- Mix well and add the sliced peaches.
- Soak the peaches for up to 5 minutes.
Step 4: Drain, Drain, Drain!
- I like to use the double-drain method to ensure that no extra moisture is left.
- I first drain them in a colander, then spread them on a baking sheet, and let them sit for a couple of minutes.
Step 5: Grab a new piece of parchment paper and arrange the freshly-drained peaches.
- Make sure to spread them out properly so that the pieces aren’t touching each other. This will allow you to freeze them more evenly.
Step 6: Freeze the Peaches
- Put the whole tray in the freezer and let sit for at least 4 hours.
Step 7: Transfer to Freezer Bag
- Just dump the frozen peaches in a freezer-safe bag and seal it properly.
- Use a straw to get rid of excess air from the bag – the tighter, the better.
- Make sure to label the bag with the date.
- Store the peaches in the freezer for up to a year.
Can You Freeze Peaches With the Skin On?
Yes, you can definitely freeze the peaches with the skin on. In fact, that is my preferred method because it helps retain moisture, preserve flavor, and avoid waste.
Also, the skin is packed with nutrients and antioxidants, which is why I always love to include it in my smoothies.
How Do You Stop Frozen Peaches From Turning Brown?
One of the worst things about frozen peaches is that they always seem to turn brown. This happens because of prolonged air exposure.
But there’s no need to despair – there are ways to prevent this from happening!
The first step is to choose ripe, fresh peaches. Then, soak the peaches in a water and lemon mixture and leave for at least 5 minutes before freezing.
You can also use a mix of ascorbic acid and water or buy a packet of produce protector like Fruit Fresh.
Once you’ve frozen them, be sure to consume them within a few months – the sooner, the better.
When you’re ready to eat them, thaw the peaches in cold water or in the fridge to return some of the freshness and moisture. The peaches will be as good as fresh.
How Long Are Frozen Peaches Good For?
Peaches are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, frozen, or canned.
However, many people don’t realize that frozen peaches can actually last for quite a long time without going bad.
Frozen peaches can be stored for up to 12 months. This means that you can enjoy the taste of summer all year round – even when it’s snowing outside! I know, amazing.
So next time you see a sale on peaches, stock up and enjoy them all winter long. Just be sure to label your freezer bags with the date to keep track of how long they’ve been in there.
How to Thaw Frozen Peaches
Frozen peaches can be a delicious and healthy treat, but only if they’re thawed properly.
The easiest way to thaw frozen peaches is to simply place them in a bowl and let them sit in the fridge overnight to defrost.
If you’d like to get to them faster, you can also let them sit at room temperature for up to two hours, but this will slightly impact the freshness and might make them mushier than usual.
How to Freeze Peaches (+Tips and Tricks!)
Learn how to freeze peaches so they stay nice and peachy for up to a year! Frozen peaches are perfect for cobblers, pies, smoothies, and more.
Ingredients
10 peaches
2 tablespoons lemon juice
4 cups water
- Equipment
A small paring knife
Cutting board
Colander
Baking sheets
Freezer-safe bags
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the peaches to remove some of the fuzz.
- Cut the peach in half using a paring knife, split it open, and cut the halves into smaller slices.
- Combine the lemon juice and water in a bowl to create a soak, and marinate the peaches for 5 minutes.
- Drain the peaches with a colander and then place them on a baking sheet to drain any additional fluids.
- Place the recently-drained peaches on a dry baking sheet.
- Freeze the peaches for 4 hours overnight.
- Once frozen, transfer the peaches to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to a year. Make sure to label the bag.
