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This summer dessert makes the most of ripe peaches by grilling them for caramelized edges and serving them with melting vanilla ice cream. Nothing beats that smoky sweetness combined with a cold creamy scoop on top and I always think of backyard dinners and laughter when I make this recipe for friends.
I made this one evening when I had extra peaches from the market and it instantly became everyone’s most requested treat at any summer barbecue
Ingredients
- Ripe peaches: Look for peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure for best flavor and texture
- Oil: Helps prevent sticking on the grill and gives a glossy finish I prefer a neutral oil like grapeseed or canola
- Honey: Adds floral sweetness that balances the char of the grill Choose a honey with a taste you love
- Vanilla ice cream: Classic pairing with grilled fruit A good quality creamy ice cream melts perfectly over the hot peaches
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium high heat You want the grates hot before adding the fruit to get clear grill marks and caramelization
- Brush the Peaches:
- Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits Brush the cut sides with a thin layer of oil to avoid sticking and to encourage browning
- Grill the Peaches:
- Place each peach half cut side down directly onto the grill Close the lid if possible and cook for three to four minutes until there are deep grill marks and the fruit starts to soften
- Flip and Finish:
- Turn the peaches over so the cut side is facing up Grill for another three to four minutes The flesh should look caramelized and the peaches should be warmed through
- Serve with Toppings:
- Transfer the peaches off the heat Drizzle them with honey while hot so it soaks in evenly Top each peach half with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and serve right away
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I could eat these peaches every single summer weekend and when my niece helped grill them for the first time she could not believe dessert could be this easy
Storage Tips
Keep leftover grilled peaches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days They taste just as sweet cold or can be gently reheated for serving To freeze arrange the cool grilled peaches on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer safe container They will last for three months Thaw in the fridge and warm before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap nectarines for peaches if you want to avoid fuzz on the skin Try maple syrup or agave instead of honey for a twist or for vegan needs Coconut or dairy free vanilla ice cream works beautifully here if you want a plant based dessert
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Serving Suggestions
These grilled peaches shine on their own but make an amazing topping for pound cake pancakes or waffles Add a sprinkle of toasted nuts for crunch or a pinch of cinnamon for warmth
Cultural and Historical Context
Grilled fruit desserts are a long loved summer tradition in many parts of America and Europe The high heat brings out the sugars in stone fruit and grilling is a popular way to enjoy ripe fruit during peach season My family always made some version of this whenever we had the grill fired up
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I select the best peaches for grilling?
Choose ripe but firm peaches. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be overly soft to prevent them from falling apart on the grill.
- → Can I use other types of ice cream?
Absolutely! Vanilla is classic, but try pairing with honey, cinnamon, or even almond-flavored ice cream for extra variety.
- → What’s the best way to grill the peaches evenly?
Preheat your grill to medium-high, oil the grates, and place peaches cut side down. Avoid moving them too much to get clear grill marks.
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Grill the peaches ahead, refrigerate, and briefly reheat before serving with ice cream for a convenient make-ahead dessert.
- → How should I store leftover grilled peaches?
Cool the peaches completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for longer storage.