Grilled Peaches with Vanilla

There is nothing like biting into warm smoky peaches just off the grill with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top The Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe is my secret weapon for summer gatherings or weekday cravings when I want something special but easy Ripe peaches meet a hint of spice and creamy cold vanilla ice cream for a dessert that comes together in minutes but feels downright luxurious

I remember making this for a picnic on a day so hot even the ice cream was sweating The grilled peaches turned dessert into a memory and everyone asked for seconds

Ingredients

• Ripe but firm peaches: give sweetness and keep their shape on the grill Choose peaches that have a little give but are not mushy
• Melted butter: adds richness and helps with caramelization Use good quality unsalted butter for best flavor
• Brown sugar or sugar substitute: creates a deep molasses-like sweetness packed into each bite If you like a less sweet dessert use coconut sugar or a natural sweetener
• Cinnamon: gives warmth and a touch of spice enhancing the peach flavor Look for true cinnamon if possible for the richest aroma
• Vanilla extract: ties everything together opt for pure vanilla and avoid the imitation kind for a full classic taste
• Vanilla ice cream: cool and creamy balancing the heat and smokiness of the grilled peaches Pick a slow-churned or real vanilla bean variety if you can
• Honey or maple syrup: for drizzling is lovely if you need extra sweetness Use local honey for floral notes or real maple for earthiness
• Chopped nuts or mint: optional garnish for crunch or freshness Choose toasted pecans walnuts or bright mint leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Grill:

Heat your grill to medium about three hundred fifty to three hundred seventy five degrees Let it come up to temperature while you prep the peaches so the grate is hot enough to caramelize without burning

Mix and Brush:

Combine melted butter brown sugar cinnamon and vanilla extract in a small bowl Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth Brush generously on the cut side of each peach half making sure to coat evenly for a shiny glaze

Grill the Peaches:

Place each peach half cut side down on the hot grill Leave space between pieces Close the lid if possible and let them cook undisturbed for three to five minutes You are looking for deep golden grill marks and a bit of softness at the edges

Finish Grilling:

Use a thin spatula to gently flip each peach onto its skin side Grill another two minutes with the lid closed to finish softening without losing the shape The peaches should be tender and fragrant but not falling apart

Assemble and Serve:

Transfer hot peach halves to plates with the pretty grill marks facing up Top each with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream Right away drizzle with honey or maple syrup and sprinkle on chopped nuts or fresh mint Serve immediately so the ice cream melts into the warm fruit

Save

My favorite twist is using wildflower honey from a local friend for the drizzle One backyard summer I let my kids brush the butter mixture themselves and we ended up laughing all over the patio with sticky fingers and the happiest faces

Storage Tips

Let leftover grilled peaches cool then place in a sealed container in the fridge They keep well for up to three days Grill marks may fade but the deep flavor remains Always add fresh ice cream and toppings when serving again

Ingredient Substitutions

Nectarines swap perfectly for peaches if that is what you have on hand You can use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based version Try a sprinkle of ground ginger in place of cinnamon for a warmer kick Dairy-free vanilla ice cream made with coconut or almond milk matches the grilled peaches beautifully

Serving Suggestions

These peaches work well on their own but try pairing with almond cookies for crunch or a simple shortbread for texture A scattering of fresh berries or a grate of dark chocolate brings out even more layers of flavor For adults a drizzle of balsamic glaze introduces tang

Save

Cultural and Historical Context

Fruit grilled over an open flame is a tradition found from Italian patios to American backyard gatherings Using peaches and ice cream feels like a true taste of summer in the southern United States where stone fruit is a seasonal favorite This recipe brings together old and new simple methods with modern flavors

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute nectarines for peaches?

Yes, nectarines make a great alternative as they grill similarly and offer a slightly smoother skin. Choose ripe but firm fruit for best results.

→ What if I don’t have an outdoor grill?

You can use a stovetop grill pan or broil the fruit in the oven. The key is achieving caramelized grill marks and tender flesh.

→ How do I make a dairy-free version?

Simply swap butter for a plant-based alternative and select a dairy-free vanilla ice cream like coconut or almond milk based options.

→ Should I peel the peaches before grilling?

Grilling peaches with the skin on helps keep them intact while softening nicely. Peeling is optional and depends on your texture preference.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Prepare the butter and spice mixture ahead, but grill the peaches shortly before serving to preserve flavor and texture.

→ What garnishes enhance this dish?

Toasted nuts, fresh mint, a honey or maple syrup drizzle, and even a sprinkle of dark chocolate can add delightful texture and flavor.