Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream

These grilled peaches with vanilla ice cream capture everything we love about summer, the smoky char from the grill, the juicy sweetness of ripe stone fruit, and the cool creaminess of premium ice cream melting into every bite. The hint of cinnamon and honey drizzle brings warmth and depth, while fresh mint lifts the whole dessert with a refreshing touch.

Whether served after a backyard BBQ, as a light ending to a dinner party, or simply because peaches are in season, this dish delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sunshine.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe but firm peaches, halved and pitted

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon honey (plus extra for drizzling)

• Pinch of flaky sea salt

• 4 scoops premium vanilla ice cream

• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

• Optional: a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or almonds for crunch

Directions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, honey, and a pinch of flaky sea salt until well combined.

3. Brush the cut sides of the peaches generously with the butter-sugar mixture.

4. Place peaches cut side down on the hot grill and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the fruit is slightly caramelized.

5. Flip peaches and grill for an additional 2–3 minutes to warm through without over-softening.

6. Transfer grilled peaches to serving plates. Top each half with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.

7. Drizzle with extra honey and garnish with fresh mint leaves. For added texture, sprinkle crushed pistachios or almonds on top.

8. Serve immediately while the peaches are warm and the ice cream is cold and creamy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 7 minutes | Total Time: 17 minutes

Kcal: 240 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Smoky-Sweet Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Ice Cream & Honey Drizzle

Few desserts scream summer quite like grilled peaches topped with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. This combination of smoky, caramelized fruit with cool, velvety ice cream creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. When ripe peaches hit the grill, the natural sugars caramelize beautifully, intensifying their flavor and adding a subtle smokiness. Paired with honey, cinnamon, and fresh mint, this dessert becomes more than just a sweet treat, it’s a celebration of seasonal abundance.

This recipe is perfect for warm evenings, backyard barbecues, or those moments when you want a quick yet impressive dessert. With only a handful of ingredients and a cooking time of under 20 minutes, it delivers both elegance and ease. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable, you can play with toppings, swap the ice cream flavor, or even serve the peaches with yogurt for a breakfast twist.

Why Grilled Peaches are a Summer Must-Try

Peaches have been cherished for thousands of years, originating in China before traveling along trade routes to Persia, the Mediterranean, and eventually the Americas. In modern kitchens, they’re loved for their versatility, equally at home in pies, cobblers, jams, and salads. But when it comes to highlighting their natural sweetness, grilling is one of the best cooking methods.

The grill does more than heat the fruit; it transforms it. The high, direct heat brings out deeper notes, creating a flavor profile that’s richer and more complex. The peach flesh softens slightly while holding its shape, making it perfect for pairing with soft, melty accompaniments like ice cream.

Another reason grilled peaches work so well is the visual appeal. Those perfect char marks and the glistening honey drizzle look effortlessly elegant, making the dish suitable for both casual family dinners and fancy gatherings.

Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

• Ripe but Firm Peaches – The star of the dish. Choose peaches that give slightly when gently pressed but are not mushy. Overripe peaches may fall apart on the grill, while underripe ones won’t caramelize as nicely.

• Unsalted Butter – Used to coat the peaches, helping the sugar and spices stick while adding a rich flavor. You can substitute coconut oil for a vegan-friendly option.

• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and encourages caramelization, while contributing a hint of molasses.

• Cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the fruit’s natural flavors without overpowering them.

• Vanilla Extract – Brings depth and a comforting aroma.

• Honey – Provides a glossy drizzle that complements the peaches’ tart-sweet profile. A floral honey, like orange blossom or wildflower, can add extra character.

• Flaky Sea Salt – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.

• Vanilla Ice Cream – The cool, creamy contrast to the warm, smoky peaches. Opt for a premium variety for the best flavor and texture.

• Fresh Mint – Adds color and a refreshing finish.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Peaches

1. Use the Right Heat – Medium-high heat is ideal. Too low and the peaches won’t caramelize; too high and they might burn before softening.

2. Oil the Grill Grates – This prevents sticking and preserves the peaches’ appearance.

3. Cut Side Down First – Always start grilling peaches cut side down. This creates beautiful grill marks and seals in the juices.

4. Don’t Overcook – Peaches should be tender but still hold their shape. Overcooking will make them mushy.

5. Serve Immediately – The magic lies in the contrast between warm peaches and cold ice cream, so plate and serve right after grilling.

Delicious Variations

While the classic cinnamon-honey-vanilla combination is a winner, you can easily customize your grilled peaches to suit different tastes:

• Balsamic Glaze – Swap the honey drizzle for a reduction of balsamic vinegar for a tangy-sweet twist.

• Boozy Kick – Brush the peaches with a splash of bourbon or rum before grilling for depth and warmth.

• Nut Crunch – Sprinkle toasted almonds, pecans, or pistachios over the top for added texture.

• Herbal Infusion – Replace mint with fresh basil or thyme for a more savory touch.

• Different Ice Cream Flavors – Try salted caramel, cinnamon, or pistachio ice cream instead of vanilla for a unique pairing.

• Yogurt Swap – For a lighter dessert or breakfast, serve grilled peaches with Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled peaches with vanilla ice cream can be served as:

• A BBQ Finale – After a savory grilled meal, keep the theme going by using the same grill for dessert.

• Brunch Star – Swap ice cream for mascarpone or whipped cream and serve with pancakes or waffles.

• Individual Servings – Plate each peach half separately for a more elegant presentation at dinner parties.

• Family-Style – Arrange all the peaches on a platter with a big bowl of ice cream for guests to help themselves.

Pairing the dessert with beverages can elevate the experience. Sweet wines like Moscato d’Asti or late-harvest Riesling complement the peaches’ flavor beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, try iced tea with peach slices or a sparkling lemonade.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While grilled peaches are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time:

• Pre-slice Peaches – Cut and pit the peaches a few hours before cooking, brushing them lightly with lemon juice to prevent browning.

• Make the Butter-Sugar Mixture – Mix butter, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and honey in advance and store in the fridge. Warm it up before brushing on the peaches.

• Leftovers – If you have extra grilled peaches, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They make an excellent topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or even grilled chicken.

Health Benefits of Peaches

Beyond their irresistible flavor, peaches are packed with nutrients. They’re a good source of vitamins A and C, both essential for skin health and immune function. The fruit’s natural fiber aids digestion, while its antioxidants help protect the body against oxidative stress. Pairing peaches with a small amount of healthy fat, like butter or nuts, can even help your body absorb their nutrients more efficiently.

Conclusion

Grilled peaches with vanilla ice cream are proof that simple ingredients can deliver extraordinary results. With minimal prep and just a few minutes on the grill, you can create a dessert that’s vibrant, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. The smoky char of the peaches pairs beautifully with the cold creaminess of ice cream, while cinnamon, honey, and mint add layers of warmth, sweetness, and freshness.

Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with creative variations, this dish captures the essence of summer on a plate. Serve it after a casual cookout, at a romantic dinner, or as a sweet treat for yourself, either way, it’s bound to become a seasonal favorite you’ll revisit year after year.