How to Ripen Peaches

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There is nothing quite like a fresh, perfectly ripe summer peach, and nothing quite as disappointing as biting into a hard, flavorless, unripe peach. If you are wondering how to ripen peaches so that they are juicy, flavorful, and delicious, we have got you covered with multiple surefire methods for peach ripening, as well tips for storage and great easy-to-use fresh summer peaches.

The Best Way To Ripen Peaches

For later use- if you aren’t in a hurry to ripen your peaches, then the easiest way to get them ripe is on the countertop at room temperature.

Place unripe peaches in a large dish or on a plate in a single layer
Store at room temperature on the counter for a few days until the peaches are soft and fragrant.

Another method for overnight ripening is the paper bag trick which is known for getting peaches to ripen faster.

Place unripe peaches in a brown paper bag with a piece of ripe fruit like an apple or banana.
Fold the bag closed and wait, check the next day to see if the peaches are ripe.

For same day use – If you are in a hurry and you can’t wait a few days to use unripe peaches, then there are some tricks you can try that might speed up the process of ripening.

Place unripe peaches in a large dish or on a plate in a single layer
Place the bowl of peaches in direct sunlight. Check them frequently to make sure they aren’t getting too hot, and they are ready once they are soft and fragrant.

Try my Georgia Peach Cobbler!

How to Tell if a Peach is Ripe

A properly ripened peach will be soft to the soft but not mushy. If you press lightly with your finger there should be some give to it. Ripe peaches will also have a sweet aroma to them and a richer darker color that unripe peaches do not have.

Storing Fresh Peaches

Once a peach is ripe you need to store it for maximum freshness without it going bad. If you only need to store it for a few days, place the peaches in the fridge until you are ready to use them. Too long in the fridge and the peaches will dry out.

For longer term storage consider freezing peaches for use in smoothies, yogurt, or baking.

To freeze ripe peaches,

Peel the peaches and slice into even wedges.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the peaches out in an even layer.
Freeze for several hours until the peaches are frozen solid and transfer to a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Best Ways to Use Peaches

Ripe peaches can be eaten on their own as a delicious and juicy summer treat. If you have too many peaches to eat, try using them in baked goods or desserts like cobbler, pie, trifle or muffins.

Peaches also make an excellent addition to summer salads paired with goat cheese, dried cranberries, and a fresh-tasting vinaigrette.

Try my Peach Pie!

Ripening Peaches FAQs

Do I need a paper bag to ripen peaches?

A paper bag is not required to ripen peaches, however placing the peaches or other fruit in a paper bag is known to speed up the process by capturing the gasses released from ripening fruit.

How to know when peaches are going bad?

If a peach has gone bad it will have an unpleasant aroma, and appear very soft and mushy. Visually inspect for any dark mushy spots, and when in doubt discard in the compost.

What is the best way to store fresh peaches?

Fresh ripe peaches are best stored at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the fridge for up to 1 week before use.

Can I ripen a peach if it has been in the refrigerator?

The fridge will drastically slow down the ripening of peaches. If you want to ripen a peach that has been in the fridge you should let it sit on the counter at room temperature until it softens.

How to ripen peaches in the microwave?

While commonly quoted as ripening peaches in 5 minutes, the microwave will only start the ripening process and potentially accelerate it. Too long in the microwave will simply cook the peach, not ripen it.