Yes, you can freeze apricots. Fresh apricots soften after thawing, but they keep their sunny flavour for crumbles, pies, compote, sauces and smoothies. Freezing stoned halves or slices separately first makes it easy to take out exactly what a recipe needs.
Quick reference chart
| Question | Best answer | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh apricots | Yes | Stone and freeze halves or slices. |
| Stewed apricots | Yes | Cool promptly and freeze small portions. |
| Apricots for baking | Excellent | Use from frozen in pies and crumbles. |
| Whole apricots | Possible | Less convenient because stones remain. |
| Best freezer time | About 3 months | Label portions for best flavour. |
Step-by-step method
- Choose ripe but firm apricots and discard any mouldy or badly bruised fruit.
- Wash and dry the apricots, cut around each stone and halve or slice them.
- Arrange halves or slices in one layer on a lined tray and freeze until firm.
- Move the fruit to a labelled airtight freezer bag or container and press out excess air.
- For stewed apricots, cool them promptly and freeze in recipe-sized containers with room for expansion.
- Use apricots from frozen for baking, or thaw them in the fridge for compote, sauces and smoothies.
Do apricots go soft after freezing?
Yes. Ice crystals change the fruit’s structure, so thawed apricots are softer than fresh. They are best for baking, jam, compote, sauces and smoothies rather than a crisp fruit salad.
Should you peel apricots before freezing?
No. Peeling is optional. The skin is fine in many baked or blended recipes; peel only if the finished recipe needs a smoother texture.
Can you cook apricots before freezing?
Yes. Stew halved apricots with a little water if you want a ready-made topping or filling, cool it promptly, then freeze it in small portions.
What to read next
For more practical guides, see can you freeze peaches, can you freeze plums, can you freeze cherries, Practical Guides hub.
Frequently asked questions
Can you freeze fresh apricots?
Yes. Stone fresh apricots, freeze halves or slices separately, then store them in an airtight labelled bag.
Can you freeze apricots for crumble?
Yes. Frozen apricot slices work well in crumbles, pies and baked puddings; use them from frozen.
Can you freeze stewed apricots?
Yes. Cool stewed apricots promptly and freeze them in small airtight portions.
How long can you freeze apricots?
For the best flavour and texture, use frozen apricots within about three months.
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For another soft fruit that is best saved for baking or compote, see how to freeze figs.
For another stone fruit that is easy to save for baking, see how to freeze nectarines.