Peaches and apricots are two of the absolute best treats early summer has to offer. They’re both delicious, fuzzy, and sweet, but have you ever wondered what actually sets them apart? While these stone fruits look like cousins, they have some pretty distinct differences once you get to know them.
How to Tell Them Apart at the Market
When you’re browsing the produce aisle or your local farmer’s market, it’s actually pretty easy to spot the differences. Here’s what to look for:
- Color: Apricots usually sport a golden-orange hue (sometimes with a little pink blush), while peaches are much darker, leaning into deep reds and rosy pinks.
- Size: Generally speaking, apricots are the “little brothers”—they’re significantly smaller than your average peach.
- Texture: Both have that signature fuzzy skin and a hard pit (or “stone”) in the middle.
- Juiciness: When perfectly ripe, a peach is going to be much juicier (and messier!) than an apricot.
The Science Bit: Botanical Roots
Both peaches and apricots belong to the Rose family (*Rosaceae*) and the genus *Prunus*. If you want to get fancy with the Latin names, the apricot is *Prunus armeniaca* and the peach is *Prunus persica*. Because they both have that woody pit in the center, they fall under the category of “stone fruits.”
Tips for Storing Your Harvest
One thing these two have in common? They don’t stay fresh for long. If you leave them out on the counter at room temperature, they’ll start to go south within just a day or two. You can stretch their life to about three or four days in the refrigerator, but for the best flavor, I always recommend eating them the same day you buy them if they’re sitting out.
Preserving the Summer Sweetness
Since you can’t keep them in the pantry for long, you’ve got to get creative if you want to enjoy them year-round. Luckily, both fruits are super versatile! You can whip up a batch of homemade jam, or try canning the fruit to keep your pantry stocked. They also dry beautifully (dried apricots are a classic snack!) or you can simply pit them and toss them in the freezer for winter smoothies.
A Nutritional Win-Win
Whether you reach for a peach or an apricot, you’re getting a powerhouse of nutrition. Both are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals that do wonders for your hair, skin, and nails. Plus, they’re great for giving your immune system a little natural boost. You really can’t go wrong with either one!
