These brown sugar grilled peaches are the perfect summer treat! When caramelized on the grill, they get sweet and juicy, making snacks or desserts extra special.
Honestly, there’s nothing like that sweet smell wafting through the air while these cook. I love serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a little extra fun. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Choose ripe peaches for the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh ones, canned or frozen peaches can work, but they might not have the same texture or grill marks. If using canned, make sure they are drained and patted dry.
Brown Sugar: The brown sugar gives a wonderful caramelization. If you’re out of brown sugar, mix white sugar with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of sugar) for a similar flavor. You can also use coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
Cinnamon: Classic for flavor, but if you want a twist, try nutmeg or cardamom. Just a pinch can bring a different vibe to the dish! Some people enjoy adding a hint of ginger for spice.
Butter: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. They work great and add a subtle flavor!
Vanilla Extract: This is important for depth of flavor. In a pinch, you can use almond extract, but be cautious as it can be stronger in taste. A splash of bourbon could add a nice touch too!
How Can I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches gives them a unique smoky flavor while enhancing their natural sweetness. The key is to know how to grill them correctly!
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat, so the peaches get nice grill marks without burning.
- Brush the cut sides with melted butter. This helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
- Place peaches cut side down on the grill first for about 4-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly!
- Gently flip and grill for another 2-3 minutes. This warms them through and keeps them tender.
Finally, feel free to experiment with your toppings! A scoop of vanilla ice cream on a warm peach is always a winner in my book!
How to Make Brown Sugar Grilled Peaches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 7-8 minutes to grill. In just about 15-18 minutes, you can have delicious grilled peaches ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, get your grill fired up by preheating it to medium heat. This will give you the perfect temperature for those juicy peaches!
2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This sweet and spiced mixture is going to make your peaches so tasty!
3. Butter and Sugar the Peaches:
Take your peach halves and brush the cut sides lightly with melted butter. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar mixture generously on top of each half. Don’t be shy, sprinkle it on thick!
4. Grill the Peaches:
Now it’s time to place the peaches on the grill, cut side down. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes until you see nice grill marks and they start to soften. Flip them carefully using tongs!
5. Finish Grilling:
After flipping, grill the peaches for another 2-3 minutes. This will warm them through and make them extra delicious.
6. Drizzle with Vanilla:
Once you’ve removed the peaches from the grill, drizzle them with vanilla extract for that extra burst of flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These peaches are best enjoyed warm! You can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a spoonful of yogurt on top if you like. Enjoy your delightful grilled peaches!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with other fruits such as nectarines, plums, or even pineapple. Just keep in mind that different fruits may have slightly different grilling times, so adjust accordingly until they’re soft and have nice grill marks.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use white sugar mixed with a little bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar). Alternatively, coconut sugar or honey can be used for a unique flavor, though honey should be drizzled on just before serving to prevent burning.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Peaches?
Store leftover grilled peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them gently on the grill or in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through. Enjoy them on their own or add them to oatmeal or salads!
Can I Grill Peaches on a Grill Pan?
Yes! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a grill pan on the stove works great too. Just preheat the grill pan over medium heat and follow the same instructions for grilling. This will give you those lovely grill marks and rich flavors without needing outdoor grilling equipment.
