What's the Best Substitute for Peaches?
Whether you're out of Peaches or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Sweet, juicy stone fruit with soft, fuzzy skin and sweet, aromatic flesh, commonly used in desserts, preserves, and savory dishes In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for peaches are nectarines, apricots, or pears, depending on the recipe.
Best Substitutes for Peaches
Nectarines
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- salads
- smoothies
- snacks
Description
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to peaches, but without the fuzzy skin.
Remove pit before using. Nectarines are slightly more acidic than peaches.
Apricots
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- salads
- smoothies
- snacks
Description
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to peaches.
Remove pit before using. Apricots are slightly more tart than peaches.
Pears
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- salads
- baking
- sauces
Description
Sweet, juicy fruit that can be cut into peach-sized pieces for similar texture.
Choose ripe, soft pears for best texture. Slightly less sweet than peaches.
Canned Peaches
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- baking
- sauces
- preserves
Description
Convenient substitute when fresh peaches aren't available. Choose peaches in light syrup or water.
Drain well before using. May be softer than fresh peaches, so adjust cooking time.
Mango
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- salads
- smoothies
- snacks
Description
Tropical fruit with similar sweetness and texture to peaches.
Remove pit before using. Mango has a more tropical flavor than peaches.
Plums
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- desserts
- salads
- smoothies
- snacks
Description
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to peaches.
Remove pit before using. Plums are slightly more tart than peaches.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Peaches, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Choose peaches that are plump, soft, and have a sweet aroma
Store ripe peaches in the refrigerator and use within 3-5 days
Freeze peaches for smoothies or as a frozen snack
Peaches pair well with vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, and herbs like mint and basil
For salads, cut peaches into quarters for best presentation
Peaches are best served at room temperature for maximum flavor
Remove the pit before using peaches in recipes
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications