How to Freeze Peaches: the Easy Step-By-Step Method to Have Them All-Year Round

Peach season is one of the most awaited times of the year for both Southerners and other Americans alike. The juicy, sweet fruits symbolize the essence of summer, but like all good things, peach season is fleeting, ending by August. So, what happens when you crave that peachy goodness throughout the year or find yourself with a bounty of peaches you couldn’t resist? You freeze them, of course!

How to Pick and Prepare Peaches for Freezing

When it comes to freezing peaches, the type and ripeness are crucial. Ideally, you should freeze ripe but firm peaches to preserve their flavor and texture. Overripe peaches can become mushy once thawed. Peaches can be frozen raw, but blanching them first helps maintain their color and texture. Blanching involves briefly boiling the peaches and then plunging them into ice water to stop the cooking process. As for the peel, it’s a personal preference. You can freeze peaches with or without the skin, but removing the peel can make them more versatile for future use.

How to Freeze Sliced Peaches

To freeze sliced peaches, follow these simple steps:

1. Wash the peaches thoroughly. If you prefer them peeled, blanch them to easily remove the skin.
2. Cut the peaches in half, remove the pit, and slice them to your desired thickness.
3. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together.
4. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for a few hours until the slices are firm.
5. Transfer the frozen slices into a Ziploc bag, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bag with the date for future reference.

How to Freeze Whole Peaches

Freezing whole peaches follows a similar process:

1. Wash the peaches thoroughly. If desired, blanch them to remove the skin.
2. Arrange the whole peaches in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Place the baking sheet in the freezer until the peaches are completely frozen.
4. Transfer the whole peaches into a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date.

How to Keep Peaches from Browning

To prevent peaches from browning during freezing, you can toss the slices in a mixture of lemon juice and water before freezing. This acidic bath helps preserve their vibrant color. Alternatively, you can coat the slices in sugar or a sugar syrup, which not only helps prevent browning but also enhances their sweetness.

Frozen peaches can last for up to 10-12 months in the freezer when properly stored. They are perfect for a variety of uses, from smoothies and baking to sauces and toppings. Just imagine the joy of biting into a peach cobbler in the middle of winter, made with peaches that taste just as fresh as they did in the summer!