Welcome to your new favorite summer indulgence: Grilled Peaches with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Glaze. This incredibly simple yet sophisticated dessert transforms fresh, ripe peaches into a warm, caramelized delight with just a few ingredients and a hot grill. Topped with a luscious glaze of melted butter, rich brown sugar, and aromatic cinnamon, these juicy grilled peaches are an absolute dream, especially when served with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprig of fresh mint.
But the versatility of grilled peaches extends far beyond just dessert. Imagine them nestled alongside a slice of pound cake, tossed into a vibrant summer salad for a sweet and savory kick, or even elevated with a dollop of mascarpone or creamy burrata cheese for an elegant appetizer. For more fantastic summer fruit inspirations, be sure to explore our Grilled Pineapple, the comforting Peaches and Cream Pie, or the unique Strawberry Pretzel Salad.
The Ultimate Grilled Peaches Recipe for Summer
As the peak of summer arrives, the last thing many of us want to do is spend hours slaving away in a hot kitchen. That’s precisely why simple, refreshing, and quickly prepared summer desserts become our go-to choices. Grilling peaches offers a surprisingly delicious and effortless way to enjoy this seasonal fruit, unlocking new depths of flavor and aroma. The high heat of the grill caramelizes the natural sugars in the peaches, concentrating their sweetness and adding a delightful smoky char that’s utterly irresistible.
Our featured grilled peach recipe enhances this natural perfection by introducing a delectable buttery brown sugar and cinnamon glaze. Applied halfway through the grilling process, this glaze melts and bubbles, coating the sweet and juicy peach halves in a sticky, golden, and deeply flavorful crust. While my personal favorite way to savor these cooked peaches is with a generous scoop of cold vanilla bean ice cream, I’m excited to share a plethora of other creative and delightful serving suggestions later in this guide. If you’re already a fan of grilled peaches, you absolutely must try our delightful Grilled Peach Crostini for a savory twist.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Grilled Peaches
Creating these sensational grilled peaches requires only a handful of readily available ingredients. The magic lies in selecting the best produce and allowing the simple flavors to shine. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Ripe Peaches: The star of the show! It’s crucial to select peaches that are ripe but still firm enough to hold their shape on the grill. Avoid any that are overly soft or bruised. Both white and yellow peaches work beautifully; yellow peaches tend to be slightly more tart and robust in flavor, while white peaches offer a delicate sweetness. You can use either freestone or clingstone varieties, though freestone peaches will be easier to pit. Experiment to find your preferred flavor profile!
- Olive Oil: A light brush of olive oil prevents the peach halves from sticking to the grill grates and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks. It also adds a very subtle, pleasant flavor. For a neutral alternative, avocado oil is an excellent substitute.
- Brown Sugar: This provides the irresistible caramelization. You can use either light or dark brown sugar; dark brown sugar offers a deeper molasses flavor. When combined with cinnamon, it forms a sweet glaze that melts perfectly over the grilling peaches. If you’re looking for an alternative sweetener, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup would also be wonderfully delicious.
- Cinnamon: The warm, comforting notes of cinnamon pair exceptionally well with the sweetness of peaches and brown sugar. It elevates the overall flavor profile, adding a touch of classic spice. For an autumnal twist, consider substituting pumpkin pie spice for a different aromatic dimension.
- Butter: Butter is key to creating that rich, glossy, and indulgent sugary glaze that coats the peaches. Its creaminess perfectly complements the sweet juiciness of the fruit. If you’re aiming for a vegan version of this dessert, feel free to use a high-quality vegan butter or vegetable-based margarine.
How to Grill Peaches: Step-by-Step Guide
Achieving perfectly grilled peaches is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a dessert that will impress with minimal effort:
- Prepare the Grill: Begin by preheating your grill to medium heat. Ensure the grates are clean to prevent sticking and allow for crisp grill marks.
- Prepare the Peaches: Gently wash the peaches under cool water. Carefully cut each peach in half along its natural seam, then twist the halves apart. Remove the pit. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the cut side of each peach half with olive oil. This prevents sticking and promotes beautiful caramelization.
- Initial Grilling: Place the peach halves, cut side down, directly onto the preheated grill grates. Brush the skin side of the peaches with a little more olive oil. Grill for approximately 4-6 minutes, or until distinct grill marks appear on the cut side and the peaches begin to soften slightly.
- Apply the Glaze & Finish Grilling: Using tongs, carefully flip the peach halves over so the skin side is now down. Place about 1/2 tablespoon of butter and approximately 1 tablespoon of the cinnamon brown sugar mixture (pre-mixed in a small bowl) onto the cut side of each peach half. Continue to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the butter and sugar to melt, bubble, and caramelize into a rich, syrupy glaze.
- Serve Warm: Once the peaches are tender and beautifully caramelized, transfer them to a serving platter. Serve immediately while warm, ideally with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream and a garnish of fresh mint for a truly unforgettable summer dessert. Enjoy every sweet, smoky, and juicy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Peaches
Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, or simply prefer the convenience of indoor cooking, you can easily grill peaches on a hot cast iron grill pan on your stovetop. Lightly season the grill pan with olive oil and preheat it over medium-high heat. Place the peach halves cut-side down and follow similar cooking instructions as for an outdoor grill. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your stovetop and pan, so keep a close eye on them to achieve that perfect char and tenderness.
Determining ripeness is key for the best flavor and texture. The primary indicator is by touch: gently press the peach with your fingers. If it yields slightly, it’s either ripe or will be ready within a day. If it’s very firm, let it ripen on your counter. Visually, avoid wrinkled peaches, as they’re likely overripe. Conversely, very pale peaches aren’t yet ripe. Look for a vibrant, deep golden-yellow color, often with hints of red or blush, and a fragrant, sweet aroma.
The distinction lies in how easily the pit separates from the fruit’s flesh. Freestone peaches, as the name suggests, have pits that are easily removed from the flesh. These are generally preferred for recipes that require slicing or pitting. Clingstone peaches, on the other hand, have pits that “cling” tightly to the flesh, making them more challenging to remove. While clingstone peaches can be incredibly juicy and flavorful, they require a slightly different approach for preparation.
This trick is a lifesaver for clingstone peaches and helps prevent bruising! Instead of cutting straight down the “crack” or seam, slice around the peach’s circumference, perpendicular to the stem end (imagine cutting it like an equator). Once you’ve sliced all the way around, give the peach halves a gentle twist and pull them apart. The pit might stay in one half, which you can then carefully scoop out with a spoon or paring knife.
While fresh peaches are always recommended for grilling due to their firm texture and natural juices, you can technically grill frozen peaches. However, they will release more water, become softer, and might not achieve the same firm-yet-tender texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry before brushing with oil and grilling. Adjust cooking times as needed.
The key to preventing sticking is to ensure your grill grates are clean, hot, and well-oiled. Make sure to brush the cut side of the peaches generously with olive oil before placing them on the grill. Additionally, don’t try to move the peaches too soon; let them develop a good sear and grill marks before flipping, as this naturally helps them release from the grates.
Creative Ways to Serve Grilled Peaches
The beauty of grilled peaches lies in their incredible adaptability. While they are a showstopper on their own, their warm, sweet, and smoky notes make them a fantastic companion for a wide array of dishes. Here are just a few inspired ways to serve these delightful treats:
- Classic Ice Cream Pairing: The timeless choice! Serve warm grilled peaches with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Garnish with fresh mint or basil for an aromatic touch.
- Elegant Cheese Board Addition: Elevate your appetizer game by pairing grilled peaches with fresh mascarpone cheese, creamy burrata, or even a tangy goat cheese. Sprinkle with toasted walnuts or pecans and finish with a delicate drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for a sophisticated starter or light dessert.
- Wholesome Breakfast Bowl: Transform your morning routine by adding sliced grilled peaches to a bowl of Greek yogurt, topped with homemade granola for extra crunch, and a swirl of honey or maple syrup.
- Cake & Pastry Enhancement: Lay warm grilled peaches over a slice of light and airy angel food cake, a rich pound cake, or even a simple sponge cake. The warm fruit softens the cake and adds incredible flavor.
- Rustic Biscuit Shortcake: Serve grilled peaches with warm drop biscuits and plenty of whipped cream for a rustic, deconstructed peach shortcake.
- Savory Salad Component: Add a sweet and smoky dimension to your summer salads. Grilled peaches pair beautifully with mixed greens, prosciutto, feta or goat cheese, and a light vinaigrette.
- Breakfast or Brunch Treat: Serve them alongside French toast, pancakes, or waffles instead of traditional fruit toppings for an elevated breakfast experience.
- Cocktail Garnish: Skewer small pieces of grilled peach for a unique garnish in summer cocktails like sangria or a bourbon smash.
Grilled Peaches with Brown Sugar Cinnamon Glaze
The Carefree Kitchen
These grilled peaches are a quintessential summer dessert, boasting a buttery brown sugar and cinnamon glaze that perfectly complements the juicy, caramelized fruit. Ideal with a scoop of ice cream or fresh mint.
Pin Recipe
5 mins
10 mins
15 mins
4 people
Ingredients
- 4 ripe peaches, cut in half with pits removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium heat.
- Wash the peaches, then carefully cut in half and remove the pits. Using a pastry brush, brush the cut side of the peach with olive oil. Place the peaches, cut side down, on the grill over medium heat. Brush the skin side with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon and set aside.
- Place peaches cut side down over the preheated grill, then brush the skin side with more olive oil.
- Grill over medium heat for 4-6 minutes, or until grill marks form on the cut side. Use tongs to flip the peaches over, then add 1/2 tablespoon pat of butter and about 1 tablespoon of cinnamon brown sugar to each peach half.
- Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the brown sugar is melted and slightly caramelized.
- Transfer the grilled peaches to a platter. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and garnish with mint if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Storing instructions: Store grilled peaches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the grill or in a pan for best results.
Nutrition
Calories: 208kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 113mg | Potassium: 219mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 921IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 1mg
Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.
Dessert
American
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More of the Best Summer Dessert Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the simple elegance of grilled peaches, you’ll surely enjoy exploring more of our favorite summer dessert recipes that celebrate the season’s bounty:
- Strawberry Rhubarb Pie: A classic sweet-tart combination.
- Blackberry Pie: Bursting with juicy, ripe blackberries.
- Berry Trifle: Layers of cake, cream, and fresh berries.
- Strawberry Shortcake: The quintessential summer treat with fresh strawberries.
- Fresh Peach and Raspberry Pie: A delightful pairing of two vibrant fruits.
- Cheesecake Fruit Dip: A light and creamy dip perfect for fresh fruit.
- Fresh Fruit Cake: A light, airy cake adorned with seasonal fruits.
- Explore more delicious Dessert Recipes for every occasion.
- Discover a variety of Summer Recipes to make the most of the warmer months.
This recipe for Grilled Peaches stands as a testament to the fact that the most memorable summer desserts are often the simplest. With its luscious melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon glaze, it offers a warm, caramelized sweetness that pairs wonderfully with everything from cool ice cream and fluffy whipped cream to a delicate drizzle of honey. It’s a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of summer right to your plate, proving that sometimes, the best cooking happens outdoors.