How to Freeze Peaches the Right Way

Freezing peaches when they are perfectly ripe is a fantastic way to preserve that delicious summer flavor to enjoy all year round. Following a few key steps will ensure they don’t turn brown or freeze into one giant clump.

Here is a step-by-step guide to the best way to freeze fresh peaches.

What You’ll Need:

• Ripe but firm peaches
• A large pot for boiling water
• A large bowl of ice water
• A sharp knife and cutting board
• A baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Freezer-safe bags or containers
• A lemon

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Step-by-Step Guide to Freezing Peaches

Step 1: Peel the Peaches (The Easy Way)

This method, called blanching, makes the skins slide right off.

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. While it’s heating, prepare a large bowl of ice water.
2. Using a knife, score a small “X” on the bottom of each peach.
3. Carefully place a few peaches at a time into the boiling water for just 30-60 seconds.
4. Using a slotted spoon, immediately transfer the peaches from the boiling water into the ice water bath. This stops the cooking process.
5. After about a minute in the ice water, you’ll be able to easily peel the skin off with your fingers, starting from the “X”.

Step 2: Slice and Treat to Prevent Browning

Peaches oxidize and turn brown quickly once cut. This simple treatment prevents that.

1. Cut the peeled peaches in half and remove the pits.
2. Slice the peaches to your desired thickness.
3. As you slice them, place the slices into a large bowl filled with cool water and a good squeeze of fresh lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon of juice per cup of water). Let them sit in the lemon water for a few minutes.

Step 3: Flash Freeze (The Most Important Step!)

This step is crucial for ensuring your peaches freeze as individual slices, not as a solid block.

1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Drain the peach slices well and arrange them on the parchment paper in a single layer. Make sure the slices are not touching each other.
3. Place the baking sheet flat in your freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the peach slices are frozen solid.

Step 4: Pack for Long-Term Storage

1. Once the peach slices are frozen solid, you can remove the baking sheet from the freezer.
2. Transfer the individually frozen slices into freezer-safe bags or airtight containers.
3. If using bags, press out as much air as possible before sealing to help prevent freezer burn.
4. Label the bag or container with the date. Frozen peaches are best if used within 8-12 months.

How to Use Your Frozen Peaches

You can use them straight from the freezer for things like:

• Smoothies
• Shakes
• Oatmeal or yogurt toppings

For recipes like pies, crisps, and cobblers, you can often use them from frozen (you may need to add a little extra cornstarch to your filling) or let them thaw slightly first. Note that thawed peaches will be much softer than fresh ones, which is perfectly normal.

Enjoy the taste of summer all year round!