How to Freeze Peaches in Freezer Bags (5 Wood Prep Hacks)

Are You Ready to Enjoy Summer Peaches All Year Round? Master Freezing Peaches in Freezer Bags (Plus 5 Wood Prep Hacks!)

Imagine biting into a juicy, ripe peach in the dead of winter, the sweet nectar transporting you back to sun-drenched summer days. Sounds heavenly, right? With a little planning and these simple techniques, you can make that dream a reality by freezing peaches at their peak.

This blog post will walk you through the easiest and most effective method for freezing peaches in freezer bags, ensuring they retain their flavor and texture for months. But that’s not all! We’ll also throw in 5 bonus wood prep hacks that can make your kitchen tasks – and life in general – a little smoother and more enjoyable. Let’s dive in!

Why Freeze Peaches?

Freezing peaches is a fantastic way to:

• Preserve the Harvest: Capture the fleeting deliciousness of peak-season peaches and avoid waste.
• Enjoy Year-Round Flavor: Say goodbye to bland, unripe grocery store peaches during the off-season.
• Save Money: Buy peaches in bulk when they’re on sale and freeze them for later use.
• Control Ingredients: Frozen peaches are a healthy and natural ingredient for smoothies, pies, jams, and more.

The Ultimate Guide to Freezing Peaches in Freezer Bags

Here’s a step-by-step guide to freezing peaches using freezer bags, ensuring the best possible results:

What You’ll Need:

• Ripe Peaches: Choose peaches that are firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure. Avoid bruised or overly soft peaches.
• Large Pot: For blanching.
• Slotted Spoon: For removing peaches from the boiling water.
• Ice Bath: A bowl filled with ice water to stop the cooking process.
• Sharp Knife: For peeling and slicing.
• Cutting Board: A stable surface for preparing your peaches.
• Lemon Juice or Ascorbic Acid: To prevent browning.
• Sugar (Optional): For added sweetness and preservation.
• Freezer Bags (Heavy-Duty): Choose bags specifically designed for freezer storage.
• Permanent Marker: For labeling.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Wash and Score the Peaches: Gently wash the peaches under cold water. Then, using a sharp knife, score an “X” on the bottom of each peach. This will make peeling much easier.

2. Blanch the Peaches: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully place the peaches in the boiling water for 30-60 seconds. The skins should start to loosen at the score marks.

3. Shock in Ice Water: Immediately transfer the blanched peaches to the ice bath. This stops the cooking process and helps preserve their color and texture.

4. Peel and Slice: Once the peaches are cool enough to handle, peel the skins away from the scored “X.” They should slip off easily. Slice the peaches into wedges or halves, depending on your preference.

5. Prevent Browning: In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches with lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon per quart of peaches) or ascorbic acid (follow package instructions). This helps prevent the peaches from browning during freezing. You can also add sugar at this point if desired (about 1/2 cup per quart of peaches).

6. Pack into Freezer Bags: Fill the freezer bags with the sliced peaches, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. This allows for expansion during freezing.

7. Remove Air: This is crucial! Press out as much air as possible from the bag before sealing. You can use a straw to suck out the remaining air or carefully press down on the bag to squeeze it out. Removing air prevents freezer burn.

8. Label and Date: Use a permanent marker to label each bag with the contents (e.g., “Sliced Peaches”), the date, and any other relevant information (e.g., “No Sugar Added”).

9. Freeze Flat: Lay the filled freezer bags flat in the freezer. This helps them freeze quickly and evenly, and makes them easier to stack later.

10. Freeze Solid: Let the peaches freeze solid for at least 24 hours before stacking them in the freezer.

Tips for Success:

• Use Fresh, Ripe Peaches: The quality of your frozen peaches will depend on the quality of the peaches you start with.
• Work Quickly: The faster you work, the better the peaches will retain their color and texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Freezer: Overcrowding the freezer can slow down the freezing process.
• Consider Flash Freezing: For even better results, spread the peach slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for a few hours before transferring them to freezer bags. This prevents them from clumping together.

5 Wood Prep Hacks to Elevate Your Kitchen Game

Beyond freezing peaches, let’s explore some handy wood prep hacks that will make your kitchen experience even better.

1. Cutting Board Maintenance: Regularly oil your wooden cutting boards with food-grade mineral oil. This prevents them from drying out, cracking, and harboring bacteria. Apply a generous coat of oil, let it soak in for a few hours, and then wipe off the excess.

2. Wooden Spoon Revival: Wooden spoons can absorb odors and flavors over time. To refresh them, boil them in water with a tablespoon of baking soda for about 10 minutes. This will help remove any lingering smells and stains.

3. Prevent Wood Splinters: Before using a new wooden spoon or utensil, lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any rough edges or splinters.

4. DIY Wood Cleaner: Create a natural wood cleaner by mixing equal parts white vinegar and olive oil. Apply the mixture to your wooden surfaces with a soft cloth, then buff with a clean, dry cloth. This will help clean and polish your wood.

5. Wood Sealing for Longevity: For wooden salad bowls or items that come into frequent contact with liquids, consider applying a food-safe wood sealant. This will help protect the wood from moisture and prevent it from warping or cracking. Choose a sealant specifically designed for food contact surfaces.

Final Thoughts

Freezing peaches in freezer bags is a simple yet rewarding way to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your frozen peaches are delicious and stay fresh for months. And with these wood prep hacks, you can keep your wooden kitchen tools in top condition for years to come. So, go ahead, embrace the harvest and prepare to savor the sweet taste of summer, even when the snow is falling! Happy freezing!

Learn more