How to Freeze Peaches

Peach season is sweet, juicy, and all too short. But with a little prep, you can freeze those ripe peaches and enjoy them in smoothies, pies, and snacks all year long. This guide walks you through the 3 best ways to freeze peaches — with or without the skin, sliced or whole.

Freezing fruit like peaches is a great way to enjoy summer flavors year-round. And it’s not just peaches — preserving other seasonal produce at home is easier than you think. For example, you can also check out my step-by-step guide on how to freeze corn on the cob to save sweet summer corn the same way.

Recipe Card

Ingredients & Tools

You Will Need:

1. Ripe peaches (not overripe or bruised)
2. Lemon juice or citric acid (to prevent browning)
3. Sugar or simple syrup (optional)
4. Sharp knife and cutting board
5. Baking sheet
6. Parchment paper
7. Freezer-safe bags or containers

How to Freeze Peaches (3 Tried-and-True Methods)

Freezing peaches is easier than you think. Whether you want them for smoothies, pies, or just to enjoy later, there’s a method that fits every need. Here’s how I do it, depending on what I plan to use them for:

1. The Flash Freeze Method — Great for Smoothies & Quick Snacks

If you’re like me and love tossing a handful of frozen fruit into your smoothie, this method is for you. Start by picking ripe but firm peaches. I always wash them well, peel them (you can skip peeling if you don’t mind the texture), then slice around the pit. To keep them from browning, soak the slices in a bowl of lemon water for a couple of minutes.

Next, lay the peach slices out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Try not to let them touch — that’s what prevents them from sticking together later. Pop the tray into the freezer for 2 to 4 hours, or until the slices are firm. Then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, press out the air, seal, and stash in the freezer. They’re ready anytime you need a little taste of summer.

2. The Sugar Pack Method — Perfect for Baking and Desserts

When I’m prepping for pies or cobblers in the winter, I use the sugar pack method. It keeps the peaches sweet, tender, and flavorful. Peel and slice your peaches as usual, then place them in a large bowl. Sprinkle sugar over the top — I usually use about ½ cup of sugar for every pound of peaches — and gently toss everything together.

Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes. You’ll notice the sugar pulls out some of the juice and

creates a light syrup right in the bowl. Once the peaches are coated and juicy, spoon them into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave just a little space at the top to allow for expansion, then seal, label, and freeze. These are amazing in crumbles or baked oatmeal.

3. The Syrup Pack Method — Best for Serving Peaches “Fresh” Later

Sometimes I want frozen peaches that taste as close as possible to freshly sliced ones. That’s when I turn to the syrup pack method. First, make a light syrup by simmering 2 cups of water with 1 cup of sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then set it aside to cool completely.

Meanwhile, peel and slice your peaches. I like to dip them in lemon water just to keep them from browning. Then I pack the slices into freezer containers and pour the cooled syrup over them, making sure to leave about half an inch of space at the top for expansion. Seal tightly, label with the date, and freeze. These peaches are lovely served over pancakes, ice cream, or even in fruit salads when thawed.

Tips for Success

To peel peaches easily, blanch them for 30 seconds in boiling water, then shock in ice water. The skins slide off easily.

• Use a vacuum sealer for longer freezer life.
• Freeze peaches flat in a single layer before bagging to avoid clumping.
• Always remove air from bags before sealing.

What to Make with Frozen Peaches

Now that you’ve got your peaches perfectly frozen, what should you do with them? The beauty of frozen peaches is that they’re incredibly versatile. Here are a few delicious ways to use them:

• Toss into smoothies for a naturally sweet, creamy texture
• Bake into pies, crisps, or muffins
• Simmer into a quick peach compote or jam
• Stir into oatmeal or yogurt bowls
• Or, my personal favorite — make a cozy Fresh Peach Cobbler that tastes like sunshine, even in the middle of winter

FAQs

What is the easiest way to freeze fresh peaches?

The easiest way is the flash-freeze method. Just peel, slice, and soak the peaches in lemon water to prevent browning. Then lay them flat on a baking sheet, freeze for a few hours, and transfer to freezer bags. No syrup or sugar needed, and they’re ready to use anytime.

Is it better to freeze peaches with or without sugar?

It depends on how you’ll use them. Freezing with sugar (using the sugar pack or syrup method) helps preserve texture and sweetness, making them perfect for desserts or eating plain. If you’re planning to use them in smoothies or want to keep things simple, freezing without sugar works great too.

Do you have to soak peaches in lemon juice before freezing?

You don’t have to, but it’s highly recommended. Soaking peach slices in lemon water helps prevent browning and keeps their color and flavor fresher during freezing. It only takes a couple of minutes and makes a big difference.

Do peaches go bad if frozen?

Properly frozen peaches can last up to 12 months in the freezer without going bad. The key is to store them in airtight bags or containers and keep your freezer at 0°F (-18°C). Over time, they might lose a little texture, but they’re still safe and tasty to use.