These brown sugar grilled peaches are a sweet and juicy treat! The brown sugar caramelizes as the peaches grill, giving them a lovely golden color and amazing flavor.
It’s so easy to whip these up for a summer dessert! Just slice, sprinkle, and grill. I love serving them with ice cream—it’s like a warm hug on a plate! 🍑💕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Use ripe peaches for the best flavor. If peaches aren’t available, nectarines are a great swap – they grill just as nicely! You can also try pears, but they might need a bit longer on the grill.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich sweetness. If you don’t have any, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses for similar results. Maple syrup is another tasty alternative!
Ground Cinnamon: This spice enhances the sweet, warm flavors of the peaches. You can substitute with nutmeg or pumpkin spice if you want to switch it up or if cinnamon isn’t your favorite.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter gives you more control over the saltiness. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut oil works well, adding a subtle flavor to the peaches.
Vanilla Extract: The vanilla brings a nice depth of flavor. For a fun twist, you could try almond extract instead, but use just half the amount as it’s more potent.
How Do You Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches can be simple, but getting them just right takes a few tricks. The key is to start with ripe peaches so they grill nicely and don’t dry out. Here’s what to do:
- Preheat the grill to medium – you want it hot enough to give those nice grill marks but not so hot that the peaches burn.
- Brush the peaches generously with melted butter before grilling. This helps caramelize the sugar and prevents sticking.
- Grill the peaches cut side down first. This gives you those beautiful grill marks and enhances the sweetness. Flip them gently to avoid damaging the fruit.
- Remove them from the grill when they’re slightly softened but still hold their shape. You want them warm and juicy, not mushy.
How to Make Brown Sugar Grilled Peaches?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Optional: vanilla ice cream for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing these delicious grilled peaches will take about 10 minutes, plus 10 minutes for grilling. Total time is around 20 minutes. You’ll be enjoying this sweet treat in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure the peaches cook evenly and develop those beautiful grill marks.
2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This sweet and spicy mixture will make the peaches even more tasty!
3. Brush and Sprinkle:
Take the halved peaches and brush the cut side with melted butter. Then, generously sprinkle the brown sugar mixture all over the peach halves. This is where the magic happens!
4. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Let them grill for about 4-5 minutes, or until you see nice grill marks and the peaches start to soften a bit. Flip the peaches carefully and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat them through.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once done, remove the peaches from the grill and drizzle them with vanilla extract for that extra flavor burst.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm grilled peaches right away. You can top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and some fresh mint leaves for a delightful finishing touch. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! Grilled nectarines, plums, or apricots also work great with this recipe. Just make sure they are ripe but firm, so they hold their shape on the grill!
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar with a touch of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per 1 cup of white sugar) to mimic the flavor profile. Alternatively, coconut sugar or honey can also be used, but keep in mind they may slightly alter the sweetness and texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Peaches?
Store any leftover grilled peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for 20-30 seconds or warm them on the grill for a minute.
Can I Make This Recipe on a Stovetop Grill Pan?
Yes, a stovetop grill pan works perfectly! Just heat it over medium heat and follow the same steps. Keep an eye on the cooking time as a stovetop grill may cook slightly faster.