Grilled peaches are a simple yet stunning dessert that brings out the fruit’s natural sweetness in just 3 minutes on the grill. The heat caramelizes the sugars, creating a golden, slightly smoky exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Topped with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, each bite is a perfect balance of warm, cool, and creamy textures.
With only 10 minutes of prep, this recipe is a quick way to elevate your summer meals or impress guests effortlessly.
The smoky aroma, vibrant colors, and luscious flavors make it a treat that feels indulgent yet refreshingly light. It’s a dessert that celebrates simplicity and the beauty of seasonal produce.
What You’ll Need?
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted (choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for best results)
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing (substitute with melted butter if preferred)
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted and crushed (pecans or almonds work as a great alternative)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt (or kosher salt)
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (try coconut milk ice cream for a dairy-free option)
How to Make Grilled Peaches?
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium heat. (Ensure the grill is hot before adding the peaches for perfect char marks.)
- Brush the cut side of the peaches lightly with olive oil. (This prevents sticking and enhances flavor.)
- Grill the peaches cut-side down for 3 minutes, or until char marks form and the peaches soften slightly. (Avoid moving them too much to get those beautiful grill lines.)
- Prepare the walnut mixture: In a small bowl, combine the crushed walnuts, cinnamon, and sea salt. Mix well.
- Remove the peaches from the grill and serve immediately. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and sprinkle generously with the walnut mixture. (Serve warm for the best experience!)
Elevate Your Peaches: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Take your grilled peaches to the next level by drizzling them with a honey-balsamic glaze (mix 2 tbsp honey with 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar) or a dollop of whipped mascarpone. For a crunchy twist, swap walnuts for crushed pistachios or pecans. A sprinkle of fresh mint or basil adds a refreshing finish!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Grilled peaches are incredibly versatile! Serve them as a light dessert with vanilla ice cream or yogurt, or turn them into a savory side by pairing with grilled chicken or pork. They also make a stunning addition to a cheese board alongside creamy brie or goat cheese.
Quick Tips for Grilling Success
To save time, toast the walnuts in advance and store them in an airtight container. Use a grill pan if you don’t have an outdoor grill—it works just as well! For even grilling, choose peaches that are firm but ripe to prevent them from falling apart.
Storage and Reheating Made Easy
Grilled peaches are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them mushy.
Recipe Variations to Try
Experiment with different flavors by swapping cinnamon for cardamom or nutmeg. For a boozy twist, brush the peaches with a mix of bourbon and maple syrup before grilling. Vegan? Substitute the ice cream with coconut or almond-based alternatives.
Grilled Peaches
Ingredients
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted and crushed
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat.
- Brush the cut side of the peaches with a little olive oil and grill cut-side down for 3 minutes, until char marks form.
- In a small bowl, combine the walnuts, cinnamon, and salt.
- Remove the peaches from the grill and serve with vanilla ice cream and sprinkle with the walnut mixture.