What Is the Difference Between a Peach and a Nectarine?

What is the difference between a peach and a nectarine?

You probably just read “What is the difference between a peach and a nectarine?” and are feeling pretty sure you’ve got the answer to the titular question. It’s fuzz, right? That’s the difference.

Well, essentially yes. Peaches are just furry, unshaven versions of smooth-as-a-baby’s-bum nectarines but these two summery fruits actually share a gene variant which accounts for why they’re so similar (as well as that one major difference). Let’s get down to the science behind this age-old peach vs. nectarine query.

As we’ve established, peaches have a soft, fuzzy coating on their exterior, which results from a dominant allele (a variant form of a gene). Nectarines, unlike peaches, have a recessive variation and, thus, have smooth skin. They also tend to be firmer and smaller in size than their peach cousin.

What to do with ripe summer peaches.

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Related Reading: Why You Should Be Grilling Fruit This Summer | 11 Perfect Peach Recipes

Otherwise, peaches and nectarines are rather similar, indeed. They both come in yellow and white varieties and can be either freestone (meaning that the pit easily comes free from the fruits’ flesh) or clingstone (meaning the pit sticks tightly to it). In terms of cooking, peaches and nectarines are nearly interchangeable, given their juicy, sweet flavors. Just be sure to peel the peaches. No one wants fuzz in their pie, after all!

Peach & Nectarine Recipes

If you’re looking to use these juicy stone fruits in desserts, check out the below recipes for ample inspiration for all your pie, crisp, and cobbler needs. We also love adding these summer fruits to salads, drinks, and more. Try making them all before peach season is over!

Easy Peach Cobbler

Chowhound

This recipe is so simple, even the most amateur baker can master it. Top the flaky pastry with some vanilla ice cream for a complete dessert experience that’s out of this world. Get our Easy Peach Cobbler recipe.

Peach Caprese Salad

Peach Caprese Salad with White Balsamic Vinaigrette

Amy Neunsinger

This fruity addition to a traditional Caprese Salad is perfect for summer. Even toss in some tomatoes for added flavor and texture if you’re feeling adventurous. Get Joanna Gaines’s Peach Caprese Salad recipe.

Peach Pie with Pecan Streusel

Chowhound

Again with the pecans! I guess there’s no better nut to complement the pride of Georgia. Try making this one for Thanksgiving to give the holiday a well-needed hint of summer (or break it out for Christmas in July). Get our Peach Pie with Pecan Streusel recipe.

Corningware Stoneware 9 Inch Round White Pie Pan, $27.35 at Walmart

This classic white pie pan is perfect for all of your summer baking needs.

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Grilled Nectarine Crumble

Chowhound

Pecans and brown sugar give this crumble a nutty edge—one that will have you constantly asking for seconds. Get our Grilled Nectarine Crumble recipe.

Related Reading: How to Grill Dessert All Summer

Nectarines Baked with Pistachios and Fresh Ginger

If you want to get the most out of your nectarines this summer, try baking them whole with this impressive recipe, which stuffs the fruits with pistachios, ginger and buttery white wine sauce. It’s a more sophisticated dessert that’s still perfect for picnic weather. Get our Pistachio and Ginger Baked Nectarines recipe.

Peaches ‘n’ Cream Ice Pops

Chowhound

Try these Peaches ‘n’ Cream ice pops this summer for a delicious, easy-to-make treat. If you’re a fan of Creamsicles, make sure to test out this recipe! Get our Peaches ‘n’ Cream Ice Pop recipe.

Related Reading: Inventive Ice Pop Recipes That Break the Mold

Oak Leaf Popsicle Molds, Set of 6, $9.99 at Walmart

These reusable popsicle molds will have you making ice pops all summer long!

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Chipotle-Nectarine Barbecue Sauce

Chowhound

Not even barbecued chicken is immune to the charms of stone fruit. Try sweetening up your grill game with this homemade barbecue sauce which pairs nectarines with chipotle for a balancing act of smoky and sweet. Get our Chipotle-Nectarine Barbecue Sauce recipe.

Peach Frozen Yogurt

If you’re sick of baked goods featuring peaches, than this recipe is for you. Try making your very own soft serve for a chiller approach to summer’s best fruit. Get our Peach Frozen Yogurt recipe.

Read More: The Science Behind Brightly Colored Summer Fruit & Why It’s So Good for You

Peach Bellini

peach bellini Champagne cocktail

Chowhound

While Bloody Marys and mimosas are typically the most popular boozy brunch beverages, we love sipping on these flavorful Peach Bellinis during the summer. Get our Peach Bellini recipe.