Flavor Focus

All About Peaches: Types of Peaches, How to Freeze Peaches, Recipes with Peaches & More

Juicy, ripe peaches are flavor stars of summer—and this article covers the different types of peaches, how to freeze peaches, recipes with peaches, and more.

Before diving into the best recipes with peaches, you might want to learn more about this summery fruit.

Peaches started their journey in ancient China, and eventually became a summer sweetheart in American orchards. Bite into one and you get juicy sweetness, a hint of tartness, and that unmistakable floral aroma.

In the kitchen, they’re wildly versatile in both sweet and savory dishes—grill them for salads, bake them into cakes, or blend them into a frosty smoothie.

Read on to learn more about this flavorful fruit, then use my recipes with peaches below to get inspired and put your fresh peaches to good use.

Did you know…

Nectarines are just fuzz-free peaches!

Different Types of Peaches

Here are three popular freestone peach varieties, their flavor profiles, and how to best use them in cooking:

Elberta Yellow, freestone: Classic peach flavor—boldly sweet with just enough tang; firm flesh that holds up to heat The go-to for cobblers, pies, and preserve.
Red Haven Yellow, freestone: Juicy, balanced, and intensely aromatic with free-stone convenience plus abundant juice make it ideal for smoothies, sorbets, and quick sauces.
O’Henry Yellow, freestone: Rich, almost honeyed sweetness with a pleasant snap that keeps its shape on the grill, with caramelized sweet flavor.

Choose freestone peach varieties for cooking

Freestone varieties let their pits pop right out (perfect for easy slicing).

When Are Peaches in Season?

Peach season typically runs from late May through September in the United States, with peak ripeness in July and August.

The exact timing depends on the region—Southern states like Georgia and South Carolina see peaches earlier, while Northern areas may not harvest until mid to late summer.

For the best flavor and juiciness, buy peaches during their local peak and let them ripen at room temperature until fragrant and tender.

How to Freeze Peaches

Learning how to freeze peaches is a great way to preserve their peak-season sweetness. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

1. Choose ripe, firm peaches: They should be fragrant and give slightly when pressed.

2. Blanch and peel: Dip peaches in boiling water for 30–60 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. The skins will slip off easily.

3. Slice and pit: Cut peaches in half, remove the pit, and slice to your preferred size.

4. Prevent browning: Toss slices with lemon juice or a mixture of water and ascorbic acid.

5. Freeze individually: Arrange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 3–4 hours).

6. Store long-term : Transfer frozen slices to airtight freezer bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to 10–12 months.

How to Ripen Peaches Quickly

For tips on how to ripen peaches quickly, try one of these easy methods:

1. Paper bag method: Place unripe peaches in a paper bag at room temperature. To speed things up even more, add an apple or banana—the ethylene gas they release helps peaches ripen faster. Check daily; they usually soften within 1–3 days.

2. Warm counter: Leave peaches out on the counter, away from sunlight and stacked in a single layer. Warm air encourages ripening naturally.

3. Oven hack (for very short-term use): If you need a peach right now for a recipe, place it in a warm (not hot) oven—around 200°F—for 10–15 minutes. It won’t deepen the flavor like natural ripening but can soften the texture in a pinch.

Once ripe, refrigerate peaches to slow further ripening and keep them fresh for a few more days.