Description: A delightful and easy dessert combining the warmth of grilled peaches with the coolness of vanilla ice cream. Perfect for summer evenings!
Ingredients:
For the Peaches:
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted 🍑
- 1 tablespoon melted butter 🧈
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar 🍯
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌰
For Serving:
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream 🍨
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup 🍯
- Crushed nuts (pecans or walnuts), optional 🌰
- Whipped cream, optional 🍦
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish 🌿
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat 🔥. Ensure the grates are clean to prevent the peaches from sticking. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed for consistent heat. For a gas grill, set the burners to medium. A well-preheated grill is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and a slightly caramelized exterior on the peaches.
Step 2: Prepare the peaches by brushing the cut sides with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon 🍑🖌. The melted butter helps the sugar and cinnamon adhere to the peach surface, creating a delicious, slightly sticky glaze as they grill. Use a pastry brush or a small spoon to ensure even coverage. The brown sugar adds a rich, molasses-like flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the peaches.
Step 3: Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill and cook for 3–5 minutes until grill marks appear and they begin to soften 🔥🍑. Keep a close watch on the peaches to prevent them from burning. The cooking time may vary depending on the heat of your grill and the ripeness of the peaches. You’re looking for distinct grill marks and a slightly softened texture.
Step 4: Flip and grill the other side for 1–2 more minutes for extra caramelization 🌡. Grilling the skin side briefly helps to warm the peaches all the way through and adds a touch of extra caramelization. Be careful not to overcook this side, as the skin can burn more easily.
Step 5: Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly 🧺. Allowing the peaches to cool for a few minutes before serving prevents the ice cream from melting too quickly. This also gives the peaches a chance to retain their shape.
Step 6: To serve, set each peach half in a bowl, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle with honey or maple syrup, add crushed nuts if using, and finish with whipped cream and mint 🌰🍨🍯🌿. Get creative with your presentation! Layer the peaches in the bowl, add a generous scoop of ice cream, and drizzle with your favorite sweetener. The crushed nuts provide a satisfying crunch, while the whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence. Fresh mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also a refreshing aroma.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Grilled Peach Sundae recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time. The combination of warm, grilled peaches with cold, creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that appeals to all ages.
The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches, giving them a slightly smoky, caramelized flavor that is simply irresistible. The addition of brown sugar and cinnamon elevates the taste even further, creating a warm and comforting spice profile.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences by using different types of ice cream, toppings, or sweeteners. For example, you could use chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla, or swap honey for maple syrup.
Finally, this dessert is perfect for summer gatherings. It’s light, refreshing, and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or any other outdoor event.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve immediately after grilling for the best taste and texture.
- Pair with a light white wine or sparkling cider for a refreshing summer treat.
- Offer a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their sundae.
Tips:
- Choose ripe but firm peaches that will hold their shape on the grill.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; work in batches if necessary.
- Use a grill basket or foil to prevent the peaches from falling through the grates.
- For a boozy twist, add a splash of bourbon or amaretto to the peaches while grilling.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the peaches in the oven.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
7 minutes
Total Time:
17 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 50mg
Conclusion
The Grilled Peach Sundae is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a truly memorable dessert experience. The warmth of the grilled peaches, infused with the subtle spice of cinnamon and the rich sweetness of brown sugar, complements the cool, creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly. The optional toppings, such as crunchy nuts, luscious whipped cream, and fragrant mint leaves, add layers of texture and flavor that elevate this sundae to a new level. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert for a weeknight treat or a crowd-pleasing option for a summer barbecue, this recipe is sure to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of summer in every bite!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
A: While fresh peaches are ideal for grilling, you can use frozen peaches in a pinch. Thaw them slightly and pat them dry before grilling to remove excess moisture. Keep in mind that frozen peaches may not hold their shape as well as fresh ones.
Q2: What other types of ice cream would pair well with grilled peaches?
A: Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice, but you can experiment with other flavors as well. Caramel, almond, or even a slightly tangy flavor like goat cheese ice cream would complement the grilled peaches beautifully.
Q3: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative, use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey, and choose a vegan ice cream. You can also use coconut whipped cream as a topping.
Q4: Can I prepare the peaches ahead of time?
A: You can grill the peaches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, they are best served immediately after grilling for the best texture and flavor.
Q5: What can I do if I don’t have a grill?
A: If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the peaches in the oven. To broil, place the peaches cut-side up on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until they are softened and slightly caramelized.