Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream Recipe

If you are looking for a delightful treat that combines juicy fruitiness with creamy indulgence, look no further than this Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream Recipe. This dish masterfully transforms simple peaches into a sumptuous dessert by bringing out their natural sweetness and adding a smoky, caramelized crunch. Paired with smooth vanilla ice cream, it creates a perfect balance of warm and cold, sweet and fresh, offering a vibrant burst of flavors and textures that will charm your taste buds every time you take a bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly simple and each one plays a crucial role in highlighting the peach’s natural charm while adding layers of flavor and texture. From the ripe peaches that form the base to the cinnamon-spiced sugar that enhances their sweetness, every element works together to create this irresistible dish.

• 4 medium Fresh Peaches: Choose peaches that are ripe yet firm for the best balance of sweetness and texture when grilled.
• 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar: This helps caramelize the peaches on the grill, adding a delightful crispness and sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting spice that complements the fruit’s natural flavor beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Used for brushing on the peaches to achieve a luscious caramel coating and prevent sticking to the grill.
• 2 cups Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice, providing a creamy, cooling contrast to the warm peaches.
• 1 handful Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds a refreshing flourish that lifts the entire presentation.

How to Make Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Begin by preheating your grill to medium heat. This temperature is perfect for gently caramelizing the peaches without burning them, ensuring they get that perfect sweet, smoky flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Peaches

Wash your peaches thoroughly to remove any residue and pat them dry with a clean towel. This helps the sugar and butter adhere better during grilling.

Step 3: Halve and Pit the Peaches

Slice each peach in half and carefully remove the pit. The exposed juicy flesh is what will caramelize and soak up the cinnamon-sugar goodness.

Step 4: Mix Sugar and Cinnamon

In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar with cinnamon. This blend adds a fragrant warmth and a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the peaches.

Step 5: Butter the Peaches

Brush the cut sides of each peach half with melted unsalted butter. This step ensures a rich, golden crust forms when placed on the grill.

Step 6: Sprinkle the Cinnamon Sugar

Generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered sides of the peaches. This will soak into the fruit as it grills, intensifying the flavor with every bite.

Step 7: Grill the Peaches Cut-Side Down

Place the peaches on the grill, cut side facing down. Let them cook for 4 to 5 minutes to get those beautiful grill marks and start caramelizing the sugars.

Step 8: Flip and Finish Grilling

Turn the peaches over and grill the skin side for another 3 to 4 minutes. This softens the peach while allowing the skins to blister slightly, adding a bit of smokiness.

Step 9: Get Your Serving Plates Ready

Prepare your plates by scooping vanilla ice cream onto each one. The cold creaminess is essential for balancing the warm, grilled peaches.

Step 10: Assemble the Dessert

Place the grilled peach halves directly on top of the ice cream. The heat from the fruit will start to melt the ice cream just slightly, creating a luscious sauce.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Finish by garnishing each serving with fresh mint leaves. Their bright, herbal notes perfectly cut through the sweetness and add a pop of color for an inviting presentation. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of temperatures and textures at their peak.

How to Serve Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly torn mint leaves make an excellent garnish, infusing a burst of aroma and freshness. You could also experiment with a light drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for added texture and flavor complexity.

Side Dishes

Though this dessert shines brilliantly on its own, pairing it with some lightly spiced nuts or a crisp shortbread cookie creates a lovely contrast in texture and amplifies the indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a sophisticated twist, serve the grilled peaches over a bed of crumbled biscotti or alongside a dollop of whipped cream infused with a splash of bourbon. Consider layering the grilled peaches and ice cream in clear glasses for a stunning parfait look that will wow your guests visually and gastronomically.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover grilled peaches, it’s best to store them separately from the ice cream in an airtight container in the fridge. While they won’t be as crisp after refrigeration, they still make a delicious topping for oatmeal or yogurt the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover grilled peaches by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring to a sealed freezer bag. They make a fantastic addition to smoothies, but keep in mind they will lose their grilled crunch after freezing.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the peaches gently in a skillet over low heat just until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the peaches mushy. Reheat briefly to preserve that slight caramelized texture that makes this recipe so special.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peaches for this Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream Recipe?

While fresh peaches are highly recommended for their firm texture and natural sweetness, you can use frozen peaches in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture on the grill.

What type of ice cream pairs best with grilled peaches?

Vanilla ice cream is a classic and reliable choice, but you can also experiment with flavors like honey, cinnamon, or even a mild caramel to complement the warm, spicy peaches.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! You can use a grill pan or even a broiler in your oven to achieve similar caramelization. Just keep an eye on the peaches to prevent burning.

Is this dessert suitable for kids?

Yes, children usually love this dessert. It’s naturally sweet, easy to eat, and the warm and cold combination is usually a big hit with younger palates.

Can I add other toppings to this dish?

Definitely! Chopped nuts, a drizzle of honey, or even a splash of aged balsamic vinegar can elevate this dessert, adding new dimensions while staying true to its fresh, summery vibe.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream Recipe is an absolute joy to make and enjoy. It celebrates the beauty of summer fruit with an effortless technique and delivers a sensational harmony of flavors and textures. Next time you want to wow family or friends with a dessert that feels both elegant and homey, give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!

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