Don’t let juicy, sun-ripened peaches go bad! This guide on how to freeze peaches shows the easiest way to keep their sweet flavor locked in for smoothies, cobblers, and favorite peach recipes all year.
No messy boiling water or syrup needed – just slice, freeze on a baking sheet, and stash in freezer bags. It’s quick, clean, and keeps freezer burn away.
Tired of Mushy Frozen Peaches with Zero Flavor?
A lot of guides focus on home food preservation using liquid like heavy syrup or white grape juice, but those methods can leave your peaches soggy and overly sweet. This simple freezing method skips the mess and keeps your slices firm, flavorful, and freezer-ready. No syrup, no fuss, just pure peach goodness!
My Freezer is Never Without a Stash of Peaches
I grew up completely surrounded by canning, freezing, and preserving. My mom is an incredible gardener, and we spent hours snapping beans and stuffing jars full of peaches. These days I don’t can as much, but my freezer is never without a stash of peaches. I use them for cobblers, smoothies, or tossing into a hot pan with butter and brown sugar – instant summer dessert on a weeknight!
What to Use Peaches For
Frozen peaches bring fresh, juicy flavor to everything from quick desserts to slow weekend bakes. They’re just right for Peaches ‘n Cream Crumble Bars, The Best Peaches and Cream Pie, or our cozy Dutch Oven Peach Crisp.
What You Need to Freeze Peaches
You only need a few simple tools to freeze peaches with all that sweet, juicy flavor intact. No syrup or canning gear required – just freezer basics and fresh fruit.
- Ripe Peaches: Go for freestone peaches if you can – they’re easier to slice and pit than clingstone varieties.
- Peeler or Paring Knife: Skip blanching and peel by hand with a great peeler.
- Pot & Ice Water (Optional): Needed only if you choose to blanch.
- Baking Sheet: For flash-freezing slices in a single layer so they don’t stick together.
- Freezer Bags or Containers: Store your frozen peaches and press out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn – our foodsaver is a must-have!
Carrian’s Notes
Which Peaches Are Best to Freeze?
Freestone peaches are hands-down the easiest to work with – they pop right off the pit and make slicing a breeze. Clingstones are still delicious, just a little more work (and a little more juice on the counter). Look for fully ripe peaches for the best flavor. Some of our favorite varieties for freezing are Early Amber, Golden Jubilee, Lucky 13, Nectar, September Snow, and July Prince – so good! And if you don’t have an orchard nearby, Pearson Farms will ship fresh Georgia peaches straight to your doorstep.
How to Freeze Peaches and Keep The Flavor
- Slice the peaches: Cut in half, remove the pit, and slice. You can peel them first or leave the skins on.
Tip: This peeler makes it easy to skip blanching if you prefer them peeled!
- Freeze in a single layer: Place slices on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and freeze until firm.
- Store the slices: Transfer to freezer bags, press out air, and seal tight. They’re ready for cobblers, smoothies, or whatever you’re craving.
Storing and Freezing How to Freeze Peaches
Store frozen peaches in airtight containers or freezer bags, pressing out air (we love our foodsaver for this). They’ll keep for up to 12 months, but try to use them within 6 for the best flavor – just don’t forget to put a date on the bag before it disappears into the freezer abyss.
Using a syrup pack? Leave headspace for expansion. Thawed peach slices will be soft and perfect for smoothies, baking, or sauces.
FAQ About Freezing Peaches
How to Peel Peaches
If your peaches are ripe, a good peeler or paring knife will do the job. But if the skins are stubborn, blanching makes peeling a breeze.
How to Blanch
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, score a small “X” on the bottom of each peach, and boil for 30-60 seconds. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to cool. The skins should slip off easily with your fingers or a paring knife.
Can You Freeze Peaches Without Blanching?
Absolutely! You can slice and freeze peaches with the skins on, especially for smoothies or sauces. If you prefer skinless for baking, a good peeler makes it easy to skip the boiling water and still get clean slices.
With sweet, ripe peaches and a freezer-friendly method like this, you’ll be reaching for golden slices all year long!