Picture this: smoky-sweet peaches hot off the grill, their caramelized edges mingling with creamy cold ice cream and hints of vanilla. That’s what you get with the Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe—a summer dessert that’s ridiculously simple yet elegant enough for any gathering. Bringing together luscious ripe peaches, a kiss of warm spice, and that perfect melty scoop, this dish is destined to become your new seasonal obsession.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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For the Grilled Peaches:
- 4 ripe but firm peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or sugar substitute
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
- Chopped nuts or mint (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your grill to medium, aiming for about 350 to 375°F. While the grill comes up to temperature, slice your peaches in half and remove the pits. Take a moment to appreciate their color—it means they’re going to taste amazing in this Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe.
Step 2: Mix and Brush
Stir together the melted butter, brown sugar (or substitute), cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. This luscious mixture is what gives your grilled peaches their caramelized, aromatic magic. Generously brush the cut side of each peach half—think of it as painting on deliciousness.
Step 3: Grill the Peaches
Place each peach half cut side down directly onto the hot grill. Let them cook for 3 to 5 minutes, and watch for those signature grill marks starting to form. This step is key: the peaches will soften and develop deep, caramelized flavor, the hallmark of this Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe.
Step 4: Finish Grilling
Gently flip the peaches onto their skin side and let them grill for another 2 minutes. This quick finish ensures the fruit is tender all the way through while still holding its shape for that perfect presentation.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Transfer the hot peach halves straight to your serving plates. Top each with a big, creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream. For the grand finale, drizzle with honey or maple syrup if you love a little extra sweetness, and sprinkle with chopped nuts or mint for a festive touch. That’s it—enjoy every moment of digging into this warm, cold, sweet, and juicy masterpiece.
How to Serve Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnish takes this dessert from delicious to unforgettable. Think toasted nuts for crunch, a little fresh mint for an aromatic pop, or even a touch of grated dark chocolate if you’re feeling fancy. Sometimes, the prettiest touch is just that honey or maple syrup drizzle glistening over the ice cream.
Side Dishes
This sweet treat shines on its own, but you can serve it alongside almond cookies or shortbread for a textural contrast. A fresh berry salad or a little espresso on the side also pairs beautifully, dialing up the summery, relaxed vibe of the Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to put a new spin on the classic, try serving the grilled peaches and vanilla ice cream in individual mason jars for outdoor parties, or stack peach halves for a dramatic vertical effect. For a bit of tartness, drizzle with balsamic glaze or pair with a scoop of tangy frozen yogurt instead of traditional ice cream. Have fun with it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover grilled peaches, let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Just remember to add fresh ice cream and garnishes when you’re ready to serve again—the key to keeping the Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe tasting like it just came off the grill!
Freezing
You can freeze grilled peaches, though the texture will soften after thawing. Lay the grilled halves on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for about a month. When ready, simply thaw in the fridge or gently rewarm before enjoying with vanilla ice cream.
Reheating
To bring leftover grilled peaches back to their warm, just-grilled glory, microwave them for about 20 seconds or warm in a skillet over low heat. Avoid overcooking, as you want the peaches to stay juicy and not turn mushy—especially when you revisit the Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe for a quick treat!
FAQs
Can I use nectarines instead of peaches?
Absolutely! Nectarines work just as well as peaches and provide a slightly fuzz-free bite. Just make sure they’re ripe but still firm, so they hold up to grilling.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries at all. You can also use a stovetop grill pan or even broil the peaches in your oven. The char marks and caramelization are what matter most for this Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe.
Is there a vegan version of this dessert?
Yes! Just swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, and use your favorite dairy-free vanilla ice cream. Coconut or almond milk-based options are especially delicious with grilled peaches.
Do I need to peel the peaches before grilling?
You can grill peaches with the skin on—it helps hold everything together and softens nicely after a few minutes over the heat. If you strongly prefer, you can peel them first, but it’s not necessary for the Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe.
Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?
You can prep the peach and butter-sugar mixture a few hours ahead, but grill the peaches just before serving for the best flavor and texture. Keep your ice cream super cold and assemble the plates right at the table for a show-stopping finish.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe—it’s easy, endlessly adaptable, and always delivers a wow moment at the table. Whether you’re celebrating summer or simply craving a little sunshine on your plate, give this recipe a try and savor every bite of this warm and cool, caramelized, fruit-forward treat!
Print
Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect summer treat with these Grilled Peaches topped with decadent Vanilla Ice Cream. The warm, caramelized peaches paired with the cold, creamy ice cream create a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Peaches:
- 4 ripe but firm peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or sugar substitute
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
- Chopped nuts or mint (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350–375°F).
- Prepare the Peaches: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Brush the cut side of each peach half with the mixture.
- Grill the Peaches: Place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until grill marks appear and the peaches begin to soften. Flip and grill for another 2 minutes on the skin side.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and serve each peach half with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired and garnish with chopped nuts or fresh mint.
Notes
- White or yellow peaches work equally well.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk ice cream.
- Grilled peaches also pair beautifully with a splash of balsamic glaze.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 peach halves with ice cream
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
