Fresh peaches are a summer treasure, but their season is fleeting. While out-of-season peaches from the grocery store often disappoint, and canned peaches taste different from fresh, freezing peaches preserves that peak-season flavor better than any other method. This comprehensive guide will teach you how to freeze fresh peaches easily and effectively.
How to Freeze Peaches
Equipment
- Paring Knife
- Cutting board
- Glass Mixing Bowl
- Zipper Freezer Bags
Ingredients
- 1 quart Peaches
- 2/3 cup Sugar
- 3 teaspoons Fruit Protector such as Fruit Fresh
Instructions
- Wash the peaches.
- In a boiling pot of water, simmer a few peaches at a time for 30 seconds.
- Remove from boiling water and add to an ice bath. Let sit for 3 minutes.
- While peaches cool, mix 1 quart of water with 1 teaspoon fruit fresh to make soaking liquid. Stir and set aside.
- Remove one peach from the ice bath. Peel — the skin should slip off easily. Then slice and remove the pit.
- Add the sliced peach to the soaking liquid. Repeat with the remaining peaches.
- In a small bowl, mix 2/3 cup sugar with the remaining 2 teaspoons fruit fresh.
- Measure 1 quart of prepared sliced peaches into a bowl and sprinkle with sugar mixture. Stir to moisten the sugar.
- Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Add peaches and syrup to a freezer container or zipper bag. Remove as much air as possible and seal.
- Label with contents and date. Freeze.
Notes
Understanding Peach Varieties
Before you begin freezing, it’s important to know which type of peaches you’re working with, as this affects the preparation process.
Cling Peaches
Cling peaches get their name because the flesh clings tightly to the pit. These require more work since you’ll need to slice the fruit away from the pit rather than simply twisting it apart. However, some cling varieties like Red Haven are exceptionally flavorful and worth the extra effort.
Freestone Peaches
Freestone peaches separate easily from their pits. After peeling, you can cut the peach in half, give it a gentle twist, and the pit comes away cleanly. This makes them ideal for bulk processing. Improved Elberta is an excellent freestone variety for freezing.
The 5-Step Freezing Process
Step 1: Wash the Peaches
Start by washing your peaches thoroughly. For large batches, fill a clean sink with water, add the peaches, and gently agitate them. Remove each peach individually and rinse under running water to eliminate any dirt or debris.
Step 2: Blanch and Peel
While you can peel peaches with a knife or pull the skin off ripe fruit, blanching makes the process much easier and cleaner.
Blanching Method:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil
- Prepare an ice bath (large bowl filled with cold water and ice)
- Add 1-2 peaches to the boiling water for 30 seconds or until the skin begins to split
- Immediately transfer peaches to the ice bath using a slotted spoon
- Let peaches cool for 2-3 minutes
- Remove from ice bath and peel away the skin with a knife – it should slip off easily
Step 3: Prepare and Soak
Cut your peeled peaches into slices or halves, depending on your preference. To prevent browning while you work, immediately place cut peaches in an anti-browning solution.
Anti-Browning Solutions:
- Fruit Fresh Solution: Follow package directions
- Salt Water Solution: Mix 8 cups water with 2 tablespoons salt (don’t worry – the peaches won’t taste salty)
Step 4: Sugar Pack Method
The sugar pack method is the easiest way to freeze peaches while maintaining quality and preventing browning.
Sugar Pack Recipe:
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons produce protector (like Fruit Fresh)
- 1 quart prepared peach slices
Mix the sugar and produce protector together. Sprinkle this mixture over your peach slices and gently toss to coat. Let stand for 10 minutes until the sugar dissolves and forms a light syrup.
Step 5: Package and Freeze
Once the sugar has dissolved, pack the peaches and syrup into freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave about 1/2 inch headspace for expansion. Label with contents and date, then freeze immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute frozen peaches for fresh in recipes?
Yes! Thaw and drain frozen peaches first, then use the same amount called for in your recipe.
How do I thaw frozen peaches?
Place frozen peaches in the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly and maintain the best texture.
How long do frozen peaches last?
Properly frozen peaches maintain best quality for 10-12 months in the freezer.
What prevents browning in frozen peaches?
The ascorbic acid in produce protectors like Fruit Fresh or lemon juice prevents enzymatic browning.
Creative Ways to Use Frozen Peaches
Your frozen peaches are incredibly versatile:
Simple Enjoyment: Thaw and eat like fresh peaches or canned peaches, but with superior flavor.
Peach Shortcake: Use thawed peaches and their syrup over biscuits or pound cake.
Homemade Peach Pie: Thaw peaches, add cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour, then bake in a pie crust.
Peach Pancake Topping: Cook frozen peaches in a skillet with cinnamon, then thicken with cornstarch slurry for a delicious breakfast topping.
Smoothies and Baking: Use frozen peaches directly in smoothies or baked goods without thawing.
Tips for Success
- Choose peaches at peak ripeness – they should yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a sweet aroma
- Work in small batches to prevent browning
- Don’t skip the produce protector – it’s essential for maintaining color and quality
- Consider your intended use when deciding between slices and halves
Freezing peaches captures summer’s sweetness for year-round enjoyment. With this method, you can savor the taste of peak-season peaches even when snow covers the ground. The process is straightforward, and the results are far superior to store-bought alternatives.