Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream

This simple grilled peach dessert transforms ordinary summer fruit into a sophisticated treat with minimal effort. The heat of the grill caramelizes the natural sugars in the peaches, creating a warm, juicy base that pairs perfectly with cool, creamy vanilla ice cream.

I first made these grilled peaches when searching for a light dessert that wouldn't keep me in the kitchen during a backyard barbecue. The combination was such a hit that it's now requested at every summer gathering we host.

Ingredients

• Fresh peaches look for firm but slightly yielding fruit with a sweet fragrance
• Butter or olive oil helps prevent sticking and enhances caramelization
• Honey or brown sugar optional but adds extra sweetness and helps create a gorgeous glaze
• Cinnamon adds warm spice notes that complement both the peaches and ice cream
• Vanilla ice cream use premium varieties with real vanilla bean for the best flavor contrast
• Fresh mint provides a bright visual and flavor pop against the warm fruit

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the peaches

Halve the peaches along their natural seam and remove the pits carefully with a small spoon. Brush the cut sides generously with melted butter or olive oil to prevent sticking and promote caramelization.

Preheat the grill

Ensure your grill reaches medium high heat around 375°F to 400°F and take time to properly oil the grates to prevent the delicate peach flesh from tearing when flipped.

Grill cut side down

Place peaches cut side down directly over heat and let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until they develop dark grill marks and the edges begin to caramelize and bubble slightly.

Flip and finish

Gently turn peaches over to skin side down using tongs or a spatula. At this point brush the grilled cut surface with honey or sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar if desired. Let cook 2 minutes more until the skin begins to soften but peaches still maintain their shape.

Serve immediately

Transfer hot peaches to serving plates with the cut side facing up. Top each serving with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream that will begin melting into the warm fruit creating a creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Bookmark

My grandmother taught me to choose peaches by their fragrance rather than their color. When I make this dessert now it always reminds me of summers spent in her kitchen learning that the simplest preparations often yield the most memorable results.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

While grilled peaches are best enjoyed immediately after cooking you can grill the peaches up to 2 hours ahead of serving. Store them at room temperature and briefly reheat on the grill or in a 350°F oven for 3 minutes just before serving with ice cream. The contrast between warm fruit and cold ice cream is essential to this dessert's appeal. Leftover peaches can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and are delicious cold served with yogurt for breakfast.

Ingredient Variations

This recipe welcomes creative adaptations based on what you have available. Replace peaches with nectarines plums or even pineapple slices for different flavor profiles. For a dairy free version substitute coconut milk ice cream or coconut whipped cream. Add complexity with a splash of bourbon or amaretto brushed onto the peaches after grilling or infuse your honey with lavender or rosemary before using. The key is maintaining the balance between fruit and creamy element.

Serving Suggestions

Transform this simple dessert into an interactive experience by creating a grilled peach sundae bar. Offer various toppings like toasted sliced almonds crushed amaretti cookies honey drizzle balsamic glaze and fresh berries. For a more sophisticated presentation serve the grilled peaches with a small glass of dessert wine like Muscat or Sauternes. This dessert also pairs beautifully with a cheese course featuring mild goat cheese or mascarpone instead of ice cream.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I know when peaches are ready for grilling?

The best peaches for grilling are ripe but still firm. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be mushy. If they're too soft, they'll fall apart on the grill; too hard and they won't develop that sweet, juicy flavor.

→ Can I use nectarines instead of peaches?

Absolutely! Nectarines work beautifully as a substitute and can be prepared exactly the same way. Their smooth skin and similar flavor profile make them perfect for grilling.

→ What's the best way to prevent peaches from sticking to the grill?

First, make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before cooking. Second, don't try to flip the peaches too early - they'll naturally release from the grates when they've developed proper grill marks. Finally, ensure you've brushed the cut sides with enough butter or oil.

→ Can I make this dessert without a grill?

Yes! You can achieve similar results using a grill pan on your stovetop. Alternatively, you can broil the peaches in your oven for 4-5 minutes, though you won't get the same grill marks or smoky flavor.

→ What are some dairy-free alternatives to vanilla ice cream?

Coconut, almond, or oat milk-based vanilla ice cream alternatives work wonderfully. You could also try coconut whipped cream or a dollop of thick coconut yogurt for a lighter option while maintaining the creamy contrast to the warm peaches.

→ How far in advance can I grill the peaches?

Grilled peaches are best served warm, straight from the grill. However, you can grill them up to 2 hours ahead and reheat briefly before serving. The texture is most perfect when freshly grilled, as they'll soften more as they sit.