How to Keep Your Peaches Sweet, Juicy & Just Right
There’s something special about a good peach. That perfect balance of tender skin, juicy flesh, and sun-kissed sweetness—it’s a little bit of summer in your hands.
But they are fragile and require special attention. Taking good care of fresh peaches is part art, part old-fashioned know-how.
Here’s how to make the most of every peach you buy:
1. Ask When They Are Supposed To Ripen
Over the years, we’ve gained a lot of experience with how our peaches ripen and when you can expect them to be ready to eat. We may have a different variety of peach each week and they all ripen a little differently, so when you see us at the stand, make sure you ask when they will be ready.
2. Handle With a Gentle Hand
Peaches bruise easily. Even if you don’t see it right away, a little bump can result in a big bruise a few days later. When you bring them home, it’s a good idea to take them out of the bag or box right away and give them a little breathing room on the counter.
3. Let Them Ripen Naturally
If your peaches still feel firm, let them ripen on the counter at room temperature. No fridge (yet!).
Want to speed things up?
You can try placing them in a warmer spot in your house like a windowsill or sun-room, but make sure they don’t exceed 75 degrees. If you do this, check them daily! Some will likely ripen sooner than others
How to tell they’re ripe:
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They give slightly when gently squeezed
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They smell sweet and fragrant
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Their skin has a soft, matte glow
Some people enjoy them firmer than others, so feel free to experiment until you find a ripeness that suits your taste!
4. Fridge Comes Last
Only refrigerate peaches once they’re ripe. The cold helps them last up to a week without getting too juicy.
Tip: Refridgerating peaches while they aren’t ripe is the number one reason peaches turn out nasty and mealy.
5. Don’t Wash Until You’re Ready to Eat
Moisture speeds up spoilage. Keep peaches dry in storage and wash them only right before eating or baking.
6. What If You’ve Got Too Many?
First of all—lucky you. Second—here’s what to do:
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Freeze them: Slice, remove the pits, and lay on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Then transfer to a freezer bag. If you want to remove the skin, you can easily do this later by running warm water over the frozen peach.
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Bake something: Cobblers, crisps, muffins, or jam. (Need a recipe? We’ve got plenty!)
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Give some away: A basket of ripe peaches is one of the kindest gifts you can give.
One More Thing
Taking care of peaches is a bit like taking care of people:
Give them space. Handle them gently. Let them grow in their own time. And when they’re ready, celebrate the sweetness they bring.
Got your own peach care tip or memory? We’d love to hear it. 💬
Tag us or leave a comment below!
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