Save This
Grilled peaches with honey and vanilla ice cream offer the perfect combination of smoky caramelized fruit and creamy indulgence. This simple treat turns seasonal peaches into a showstopping dessert that feels both fresh and comforting. It is my favorite quick fix for hot nights when you crave something sweet but do not want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Every time I serve these grilled peaches at a summer barbecue someone asks for the recipe. I first made it on July Fourth when our peach tree was overflowing and now it is a warm weather tradition we look forward to all season long.
Ingredients
- Ripe but firm peaches: they caramelize beautifully and hold their shape on the grill, look for peaches that feel heavy and are fragrant but not too soft
- Unsalted butter: adds richness and encourages browning, if your peaches are especially juicy reduce the butter a bit
- Honey: brings floral sweetness and glossy finish, choose a good quality variety for deeper flavor
- Ground cinnamon (optional): for a warm spiced note, use freshly ground for best aroma
- High quality vanilla ice cream: the creaminess contrasts perfectly with the warm fruit, I like ice cream with real vanilla bean specks
- Fresh mint leaves (optional): but add a burst of color and uplift the dessert, especially fragrant in summer
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, allow at least ten minutes for even heating and use tongs to lightly oil the grates to prevent the peaches from sticking.
- Prepare and Glaze the Peaches:
- Halve and pit the peaches, then brush their cut sides generously with melted butter (a pastry brush works best). Next, drizzle or brush the honey across the cut sides ensuring a thin even layer, sprinkle with cinnamon if you like a warm spice note.
- Grill the Peaches Cut Side Down:
- Carefully lay each peach half cut side down on the hot grill. Avoid crowding, leave space between each piece, close the lid and grill for three to four minutes until dark grill marks appear and the flesh smells caramelized. Check for sticking with tongs before moving.
- Grill the Peaches Skin Side Down:
- Flip the peaches using tongs and keep them skin side down for another three to four minutes. The skin should blister lightly and the fruit should feel tender but not mushy. Remove from the grill and let the peaches rest for two minutes.
- Plate and Top with Ice Cream:
- Arrange two peach halves on each plate, top immediately with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. The heat from the peaches will start to melt the ice cream slightly.
- Finish and Serve:
- Drizzle with extra honey right before serving and scatter over some fresh mint leaves if using. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between hot fruit and cold ice cream.
Save This
This dessert is special to me because our backyard peach tree inspired it and watching my kids help brush on the honey and smell the peaches grilling is a favorite summer memory.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover grilled peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For best flavor, slightly rewarm the peaches and top with fresh ice cream when serving again. Avoid freezing as peaches can become mushy once thawed.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use nectarines or plums instead of peaches for a similar flavor and texture. Plant-based butter and dairy-free vanilla ice cream work well for those avoiding dairy. Maple syrup or agave can be swapped in for honey if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve grilled peaches plain with just a sprinkle of cinnamon for a lighter dessert. Add a handful of toasted nuts like pecans or almonds just before serving for extra crunch. I have also plated them over pound cake for company or alongside a glass of chilled dessert wine.
Save This
Origins of the Dish
Grilling fruit is a centuries-old practice found in many cultures, from North America to the Mediterranean. This recipe celebrates ripe summer fruit and the American tradition of outdoor cooking with a simple sweet twist. It is the best way to stretch out peach season and soak up summer evenings.
Common Questions
- → How do you select the best peaches for grilling?
Choose firm but ripe peaches; they should give slightly to gentle pressure but not be overly soft. This helps them hold their shape on the grill and prevents mushiness.
- → Can you use other fruit instead of peaches?
Yes, nectarines or plums are excellent substitutes and caramelize well with the same grilling technique.
- → What are the best toppings for grilled peaches?
A scoop of vanilla ice cream is classic, but you can add toasted almonds, pecans, or fresh mint for added flavor and texture.
- → How do you prevent peaches from sticking to the grill?
Lightly oil the grill grates before placing the peaches, and avoid moving them until they develop grill marks.
- → Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, as prepared it is naturally gluten-free. Always check ice cream and toppings for hidden gluten if needed.