As we inch closer to warmer weather, I find myself continuously tempted by refreshing summery flavors. Having already shared recipes for mango juice and pineapple juice, it’s time to share how to make peach juice (and peach nectar juice!). Peach juice is wonderfully sweet, refreshing, and super simple to make. I’ve included two heat-free methods for 100% peach juice, using a blender (with or without the pulp) and how to juice a peach in a juicer. I’ve also included how to make peach nectar juice with peaches, water, sweetener, and lemon or lime juice. With no preservatives and 100% control of the ingredients, you’ll love the results of this fresh juice better than any store-bought version. Enjoy the juice immediately, store it in the fridge for a day or two, or even transfer it to the freezer for several months!
What is Peach Nectar Vs. Peach Juice?
Whereas fresh peach juice is simply 100% peaches (sometimes with water), peach nectar is a combination of peach, a sweetener, and often an acid. Within this post, I’ll take you through how to make both.
The Health Benfits
Peaches are rich in several vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds, making them a great addition to your diet.
Peaches contain good levels of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. Plus moderate levels of vitamin A, K, copper, and manganese, among other vitamins and minerals. They’re packed with antioxidants, which will help fight harmful free radicals to protect the body against several chronic diseases and cancers. Peaches may be beneficial towards heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The fiber content (if the juice is not strained) and several plant compounds can benefit digestion and gut health. Peaches are beneficial towards skin health and moisture. They may also have immune-boosting properties.
Want more ways to enjoy sweet peaches? You might like this raspberry-peach and lemon layered tart, homemade vegan peach ice cream, peach iced tea, or grilled peach burrata salad!
What You’ll Need
Peaches: use ripe, in-season peaches for the sweetest, tastiest homemade peach juice. White or yellow peaches will work, though semi-freestone varieties are best (which are sweet but still have a pit that isn’t too hard to remove). Avoid any that are wrinkled, browning, or look damaged. They should be firm with a slight give.
Water: this will help achieve the correct consistency when using the blender method. For more flavor, use coconut water or another type of juice.
For Peach Nectar
Sweetener: use any sweetener, though if you want to use something granulated, it’s best to make a 5-minute simple syrup with it. Otherwise, honey, maple syrup, agave, or sugar-free syrup would work. Adjust the amount to taste. An acid: add a splash of lemon juice or lime juice to brighten and balance the sweet peach nectar juice.
You might also enjoy adding in or serving the fresh peach juice recipe with some mint leaves, a small amount of ginger, or a pinch of cinnamon. Chia seeds will help to make an even more nutritious drink, too. You can access in-season peaches almost year-round in the US as there are so many varieties available from different regions. However, the typical peach season is between May-September. In the UK, peach season is between July-September. It’s best to buy them slightly under-ripe as they will continue to ripen on your kitchen counter. If ripe, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process.
You’ll Also Need
Cutting board Sharp knife Juicer OR blender/food processor and a nut milk bag/fine sieve.
Juice Blends
It’s simple to use peach juice to make a simple juice blend. Use the juicer or swap out the water typically used in the blender method with another type of fruit juice. A few of my favorite recommendations include:
Peach mango juice, Peach and homemade orange juice, Orange peach mango juice, Peach and homemade cranberry juice, Peach homemade strawberry juice, White grape peach juice, Peach apple juice.
How to Make Peach Juice?
Juicer Method
Blender Method
As this method relies on water to help with the blending process, this juice is naturally diluted and won’t be as sweet or flavorful as the juicer version. You can also follow this method by placing the peaches and water in a large jug and using an immersion blender. Though it won’t be as smooth.
How to Make Peach Nectar?
Follow either of the methods above to make the peach juice recipe. Then, add your sweetener of choice and the acid to taste. I recommend starting with just ½ tablespoon of sugar per cup of juice and a squeeze of lime (maybe ½-1 tsp). Then increase to taste.
How to Store?
Store: peach juice is best enjoyed immediately for optimal nutrients and freshness. However, you can store it in a covered bottle or mason jar in the fridge for 1-2 days. With the addition of sugar and acid, which are natural preservatives, the peach nectar will last slightly longer (2-3 days). Note that without the acid, peaches naturally oxidize. Freeze: you can freeze the peach juice either in XL ice cube trays or within freezer-safe jars or Ziplock bags. I like to separate mine into single-cup portions. Freeze for 3 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before consuming or blend from frozen with a bit of liquid for a simple peach slushy.
Serving Recommendations
There are several ways to make use of this summery peach juice recipe, including:
Enjoy a glass of peach juice alone or with ice cubes (and mint) as a refreshing summery beverage. Combine it with other juices to create a juice blend. Dilute it with coconut water or soda for a simple, refreshing drink. Mix with champagne or prosecco (for a peach Bellini) and enjoy. Add it to other cocktails. Use it to make peach iced tea. Add a small amount to dressings or marinades.
Recipe Tips and Notes
Color will vary: based on the type of peaches you use. Chill the peaches in advance: I recommend leaving them in the refrigerator overnight before making the juice. That way, you can enjoy it fresh and chilled without needing to add ice (which will dilute the drink). When blending multiple juices: give the juice blend 30 minutes in the refrigerator for all the flavors to meld. Avoid tinned peaches: even if they’re packed in juice without tons of added sugar, the peaches used for tinned peaches are less flavorful. Make popsicles: the peach drink is delicious alone or in a juice blend. It can also be made into simple popsicles (optionally with some fresh fruit chunks). Use other fruit: this method will work exactly the same with nectarines or plums.
More Juice Recipes
Watermelon juice (4 methods) Pineapple juice (Multiple methods) Grape Juice Apple Juice Kiwi juice Carrot juice Cucumber juice (3 methods) Cherry Juice (Multiple Methods)
If you make peach juice or peach nectar juice, I’d love to hear your thoughts and questions below. Also, I’d appreciate a recipe card rating below, and feel free to tag me in your recipe recreations on Instagram @Alphafoodie!
