Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream – Easy BBQ Dessert

Why Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream Are a Must for Summer

• Fast and fuss-free – Cooking time is just minutes on the grill

• Contrast in flavors & textures – Warm, slightly charred peaches meet cool, creamy ice cream

• Naturally gluten‑free and vegetarian

• No alcohol or gelatin – Suitable for all ages

• Crowd-pleasing dessert that’s visually appealing and budget-friendly

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Ingredients: What You’ll Need

🍑 Peaches

• 4–6 ripe but firm peaches, halved and pitted

• Choose stone fruits that hold shape when grilled (freestone peaches preferred)

🍨 Ice Cream

• Premium vanilla ice cream (dairy or your preferred non‑dairy alternative)

🐝 Toppings (optional but highly recommended)

• 2–3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for drizzling

• Fresh mint sprigs for garnish

• A pinch of ground cinnamon or sea salt

• Optional: chopped toasted nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts)

🛠️ Equipment

• Gas or charcoal grill, grill pan, or cast‑iron skillet

• Tongs or spatula

• Ice cream scoops or spoons

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Step-by-Step: How to Make Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream

Step 1: Prep the Peaches

1. Wash peaches and cut each in half, removing the pit.

2. Brush cut sides lightly with olive oil (helps prevent sticking and promotes caramelization).

Step 2: Grill the Peaches

1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C).

2. Place peach halves cut-side down on the grill.

3. Grill for 3–5 minutes until they develop grill marks and soften slightly.

4. Flip and grill for an additional 1–2 minutes to warm through but not overcook.

🍑 Tip: Use a clean cast-iron pan if you don’t have a grill.

Step 3: Assemble Dessert

1. Place 2 peach halves on a plate or shallow bowl (flat side up).

2. Top each with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

3. Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the peach and ice cream.

4. Garnish with mint sprigs and a light dusting of cinnamon or salt.

5. Optional: sprinkle chopped nuts for crunch.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

These desserts are best when warm and freshly grilled. Serve right away and enjoy the contrast between the hot fruit and cold ice cream.

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Flavor Enhancements & Variations

Herb & Spice Upgrades

Add a few leaves of fresh basil or thyme, or use a dash of cardamom or nutmeg with the cinnamon for a unique twist.

Boozy Twist (Non‑Alcoholic Version)

Marinate peaches briefly in a mixture of orange juice and vanilla extract for extra flavor. Avoid actual alcohol to keep it family-friendly.

Non‑Dairy Options

Use coconut or almond milk–based ice cream and swap honey for agave or maple syrup to suit vegan diets.

Fancy Add‑On

Add a dollop of mascarpone or whipped ricotta just beneath the ice cream for richness.

Crowd‑Feeding Style

Serve peaches in a large flattop grill or castiron skillet, and let guests self-serve over ice cream scoops for a buffet-style setup.

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Nutritional Benefits (Approximate per Serving)

Peaches offer vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Ice cream adds indulgence and calcium, balanced by fresh fruit.

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Tips for Best Results

• Choose peaches that are ripe but firm to avoid mushiness on the grill.

• Oil the grill or peaches lightly to prevent sticking.

• Preheat your grill to ensure caramelization without overcooking.

• Serve immediately for the best contrast of warm fruit and cold ice cream.

• Serve individually for easier plating and portion control.

• Use quality vanilla ice cream for optimal flavor (or high‑quality plant-based version).

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

Labor Day or BBQs

The perfect light finish to smoky grilled mains—doesn’t fill diners up too much, just satisfies the sweet tooth.

Picnic or Outdoor Gatherings

Serve peaches in mason cups with mini scoops of ice cream—no bowls, just spoon-and-eat fun.

Date Night Dessert

Serve with a scoop of vanilla bean or salted caramel ice cream and a mint leaf garnish—it looks and tastes gourmet with minimal effort.

Kid-Friendly Dessert

Peach halves are easy to hold, fun to eat; pair with yakiniku or picnic fare for shareable summer sweetness.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I prepare the peaches in advance?

Yes—peach halves can be prepped and brushed with oil up to 2 hours in advance. Grill just before serving.

Can I bake or broil peaches instead of grilling?

Definitely—broil peach halves on high for 3–4 minutes until caramelized, or bake in a 400°F oven for 10–12 minutes.

What ice cream works best?

Vanilla is classic, but honey‑vanilla, cinnamon, or peach sorbet are delicious alternatives.

Can this dessert be vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based ice cream and a vegan syrup like agave or maple. Serve with coconut yogurt drizzle for extra creaminess.

How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftover grilled peaches (without ice cream) in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Best reheated (briefly) and served with fresh ice cream.

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Why This Dessert Shines on Summer Holiday Menus

1. Quick assembly and minimal ingredients

2. Seasonal produce focus—perfect peak-season peaches

3. No-fuss presentation—serves elegantly without long plating

4. Visually appealing—golden peach halves topped with bright white ice cream and a drizzle of honey

5. Family- and kid-friendly—no alcohol, crowd-pleasing sweetness, and easy to eat

Celebrate the end of summer with minimal prep and maximum satisfaction.

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Conclusion: A Simple Treat with Big Flavor

Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. It feels special but takes just minutes to prepare—no fancy equipment, no baking, and no alcohol. Grilling caramelizes the peach sugars and enhances natural sweetness, while cool ice cream and honey bring creamy richness and a touch of elegance.

Whether you’re hosting a Labor Day BBQ, a casual cookout, or a quiet dinner patio dessert, this dish brings joy and refreshment to the table in every bite.