Brown sugar grilled peaches are a sweet treat that combines juicy fruit with caramel-like goodness! Grilling brings out their natural sweetness, making them perfect for dessert or a snack.
Honestly, who knew making dessert could be so easy? Just slice the peaches, sprinkle with brown sugar, and grill until they’re warm and delicious. I love serving them with a scoop of ice cream!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star here! Look for ones that yield slightly when you press them. If peaches aren’t in season, you can try nectarines or even canned peaches (just make sure to drain them well).
Brown Sugar: This sugar gives the peaches a rich sweetness. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a little molasses to mimic that flavor. Remember, brown sugar can also be light or dark, so choose according to your taste preference.
Cinnamon: This spice brings warmth and depth to the dish. If you don’t have cinnamon, nutmeg or a dash of allspice can work as substitutes. Just be cautious with the quantities, as they have stronger flavors.
Butter: Butter adds a lovely richness to the peaches. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil works great, and it adds a hint of coconut flavor. Oil can also be used if you’re in a pinch.
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll have them caramelized and delicious. The key is to prepare and handle them correctly.
- Make sure the grill is preheated to medium heat. A hot grill will caramelize the sugar quickly.
- Brush the cut sides with melted butter evenly to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Place peaches cut-side down first. This allows them to develop those beautiful grill marks and get soft on the inside. Grill for 4-5 minutes.
- When flipping, do so gently. The skin can tear easily if you’re not careful. Grill for another 2-3 minutes on the skin side.
Let the peaches cool slightly after grilling, so they won’t burn your fingers when you enjoy them!
How to Make Brown Sugar Grilled Peaches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Peaches:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp butter
Optional:
- Fresh mint for garnish
- Vanilla ice cream for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll spend about 20 minutes to create this sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium heat. It’s the perfect temperature to get those lovely grill marks on the peaches and ensure they cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This sweet mixture is what will make your peaches extra tasty!
3. Brush the Peaches:
Melt the butter in a small dish or in the microwave. Take a brush or a paper towel, and generously brush the melted butter onto the cut sides of each peach half. This step helps them to caramelize beautifully while grilling.
4. Sprinkle with Brown Sugar Mixture:
Now, take your brown sugar mixture and sprinkle it generously over the cut sides of the peach halves. Make sure every peach is coated—it’ll taste fantastic!
5. Grill the Peaches:
Carefully place the peach halves cut-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes. You want to see lovely grill marks and for the peaches to become soft and juicy. Keep an eye on them!
6. Flip and Continue Grilling:
Once the cut sides have grill marks, gently flip the peaches over and grill for another 2-3 minutes. This will caramelize the sugar and give them a delicious flavor. Yum!
7. Cool and Serve:
Remove the peaches from the grill and let them cool for a moment. Then, serve them warm. For a delightful touch, you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side and garnished with fresh mint if you like. Enjoy your delicious grilled peaches!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! This brown sugar grilling technique works great with nectarines, plums, or even pineapple. Just make sure to adjust the grilling time based on the fruit’s firmness – softer fruits may need less time, while firmer ones may require a bit more.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Peaches?
Store any leftover grilled peaches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them on the grill for a few minutes or in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until they’re warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to grill the peaches just before serving for the freshest taste, you can prepare the brown sugar mixture and brush the peaches with butter ahead of time. Just wait to grill them until you’re ready to serve!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Grilled Peaches?
For a delicious treat, serve your grilled peaches warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and sprinkle some fresh mint on top for a pop of color and flavor. They’re also fantastic on pancakes or waffles for breakfast!
