Freezing, Canning, Purees, and Preserves for Peak-Season Peaches

There’s nothing like biting into a perfectly ripe peach at the height of summer — but what if you could bottle up that moment and revisit it all year long?

Whether you’re a seasoned canner or new to stocking your freezer, preserving your peaches is easier (and tastier) than you think. Here are four of our favorite ways to make the most of your Peach Truck haul — and keep a little summer sunshine in your kitchen long after the season fades.

1. Freeze ‘Em for a Rainy Day

Best for: smoothies, pies, crisps, and baking all year long

Freezing peaches is the simplest way to preserve their freshness. We love it because it keeps the flavor and texture close to just-picked.

How to Freeze Peaches:

• Wash, peel (if desired), and slice your peaches.
  

• Toss slices with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning.
  

• Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm.
  

• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container — and don’t forget to label it with the date!
  

📺 Watch Jessica walk you through the process step-by-step here. 

2. Can Like Grandma Did

Best for: long-term storage, gifting, and that satisfying "pop" of the lid seal

Canning might sound old-fashioned, but it’s a beloved summer tradition for a reason. With a few simple tools and some pantry staples, you can enjoy that peak peach flavor deep into winter.

Start Here:

• Choose ripe (but not mushy) peaches.
  

• Prep your jars and lids by sterilizing in boiling water.
  

• Prepare a light syrup (or use juice or water) for packing.
  

• Follow safe water bath canning instructions.
  
  

📺 Jessica shares her canning method here. 

3. Blend Up a Peach Puree

Best for: cocktails, baby food, sauces, popsicles, and baking

Peach puree is the unsung hero of the summer kitchen. It’s quick, versatile, and a fantastic way to use up overripe fruit.

👨🍳 From our kitchen to yours: Chef Zac’s favorite peach puree tips:

• Peeled or unpeeled! Just pit, blend, and strain if you want it extra smooth.
  

• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to preserve color and flavor
  

• Freeze flat in resealable plastic bags to save freezer space
  

• Homemade yogurt cups, savory sauces, ice cream topping, or cocktails

🍑 Need a recipe? Try Chef Zac’s Peach and Sour Sauce: Download recipe PDF.

4. Preserve the Good Stuff!

Best for: toast toppers, cocktails, cheese boards, and creative gifting

Preserving doesn’t have to mean just jam — there are plenty of ways to lock in that peach flavor long after summer ends. Here are three fun and flavorful options to try:

1. Classic Jam or Preserves 🍑 There’s nothing more satisfying than opening a jar of homemade peach jam on a chilly morning. It’s a little sweet, a little nostalgic, and always a crowd-pleaser.

 📖 Try our go-to jam recipe here. (Or Download the PDF!)

2. Drunken Peaches & Infused Booze 🥃
This one’s for the grown-ups. Use your peaches to infuse spirits like bourbon, vodka, or rum — or preserve them directly in jars with booze and spices. The result? An incredible cocktail ingredient (or gift!) that only gets better with time. Don’t forget to snack on those boozy peaches!

👨🍳 Chef Zac’s Favorite Drunken Peaches & Infusions: 

• • • Bourbon + vanilla bean + grilled peach halves
      
    • Vodka + peach + raspberry + lime
      
    • Rum + ginger + lemon + diced peach

📖 See Chef Zac’s Drunken Peach & Infusions recipes here. 

✨ 3. Chef Zac’s Secret Preserve: We’re not done yet — Chef Zac has one more preserve-worthy trick up his sleeve. Peach pâté de fruit is a simple preservation technique that must be tried. Elevate your next cheese or charcuterie board with this peachy take on a European classic.

👨🍳 Zac’s Favorite ways to enjoy peach pâté de fruit

• • • Sliced peach pâté de fruit on sourdough

    • Crackers, soft cheese, peach pâté de fruit, toasted almonds

    • Crostini, prosciutto, peach pâté de fruit, olive oil

📖 Download Chef Zac’s Peach Pâté de Fruit recipe here.

A Little Work, A Lot of Joy

Peach season is fleeting, but with a little prep, the flavor can live on. Whether you freeze a few bags or line your pantry with golden jars, preserving your peaches is a beautiful way to savor summer and share it with others.

🍑 More Peach Inspiration:

• 10 Easy Recipes to Make with 25 Pounds of Peaches

• Why Buying in Bulk Makes Sense