It seems simple enough, but there are some tricks for making the task of slicing peaches even easier. This step-by-step guide will teach how to cut peaches into halves, slices, and cubes.
Prefer peaches without the fuzzy skin? Here’s how to peel a peach easily!
Cling Peaches vs Freestone Peaches
There are two main types of peaches: cling and freestone. The names refer to how easy it is to remove the pit from the fruit. The pits of a cling peach will “cling” to the fruit and are more difficult to remove.
The pits of freestone peaches will often fall straight out of the fruit when cut in half, or they can be removed with just a gentle twist.
If you want to eliminate unnecessary work, freestone peaches are the way to go. Luckily, freestone varieties are what’s most widely available at many grocery stores and farmers markets.
However, you might occasionally find a great deal on cling peaches or be stuck with a limited selection. In this case, just know it will take more effort to cut these peaches and the finished slices might look a little messier.
How to Cut Peaches into Halves, Slices and Cubes
Whether you’re eating your peaches fresh or using them in a recipe, you might need to cut them into halves, slices, or cubes. Luckily, the basic method for cutting peaches involves all three. And yes, the following steps can be used for both peeled and unpeeled peaches.
Step One: Cut into Halves
If you look closely at the peach, you’ll see a slight line in the skin, extending from the indent of the stem end to the tip. Use this as your guideline!
- Starting at the stem end of the peach, use a sharp knife to cut into the peach until the knife hits the pit.
- Continue cutting in a straight line all the way around the peach until you reach the top of the other side.
- Hold each half and twist gently to break the halves apart.
- Remove the pit from the peach.
Step Two: Cut into Slices
Take each half and cut into quarters, wedges, or slices. If you’re using unpeeled peaches, lay each half peel side down to make for easier cutting.
Alternative method: for cutting your peach into quarters or wedges, you can skip separating the halves. Instead, make 1-2 additional cuts around the entire circumference of the peach and then carefully pull the wedges away from the pit. This method works best with firmer peaches.
Step Three: Cut into Cubes
Once you have your wedges or slices, you can easily dice them into cubes. Simply cut each slice into smaller pieces.
Proper Storage
If you’re not using your cut peaches right away, they should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer to keep them fresh. Here are some good tips for storing your peaches:
- Wrap your fruit and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- If storing in the refrigerator, reduce browning by applying a thin layer of lemon or lime juice. (Browned peaches aren’t as pretty to look at, but they are perfectly safe to eat.)
- Freeze halves, slices, or cubes in a single layer and store in airtight bags in the freezer for 3-4 months.
