Nothing says summer like the sweet, caramelized flavor of grilled peaches paired with a drizzle of golden honey and creamy vanilla ice cream.
This light yet indulgent treat is quick to prepare, rich in antioxidants from peaches, and offers healthy fats from olive oil.
Naturally fiber-packed and lower in carbs than most desserts, it’s a refreshing way to satisfy cravings while keeping things wholesome and simple for everyday enjoyment.
Grilled Peaches Honey Ice Cream
Equipment
- 1 Grill (gas or charcoal)
- 1 Basting Brush
- 1 knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Spatula
Ingredients
- 4 ripe peaches
- 1 –2 tablespoons olive oil fruity, high-quality
- 1 –2 tablespoons honey
- 16 ounces vanilla ice crea
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Your Grill: Begin by heating your grill to a medium-high temperature. Allow it to preheat for at least 15 minutes so the grates are hot enough to sear the peaches properly. A well-heated grill helps create those gorgeous caramelized grill marks while preventing the fruit from sticking. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are glowing and spread evenly before you begin.
- Wash and Slice the Peaches: Rinse your peaches under cold water to remove any dirt or fuzz from the skin. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each peach in half, following the natural line around the pit. Gently twist the halves in opposite directions to separate them. Use the knife tip or a spoon to remove and discard the pit.
- Brush with Olive Oil for Flavor and Protection: Place the peach halves flesh-side up on a cutting board. Using a basting brush, lightly coat the exposed flesh with a thin layer of fruity olive oil. This not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the peaches from drying out and sticking to the grill. Be sure to use just enough oil to coat — too much can cause flare-ups on the grill.
- Grill the Peaches Until Caramelized: Carefully place the peaches flesh-side down directly on the hot grill grates. Close the lid and let them cook for 4–5 minutes without moving them. Resist the urge to flip or shuffle them too soon — the peaches need time to sear and develop those beautiful golden-brown grill marks. To check doneness, gently slide a spatula under one peach; if it lifts easily without sticking, it’s ready. If it clings to the grates, give it another minute or two.
- Remove and Plate the Peaches: Once the peaches are tender and caramelized, carefully remove them from the grill using a spatula or tongs. Place them flesh-side up on a serving plate. The heat will have softened their texture, intensified their natural sweetness, and given them a subtle smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with honey and ice cream.
- Add Honey for a Sweet Finish: While the peaches are still warm, drizzle each half with a small amount of honey. The warmth of the fruit helps the honey thin slightly, allowing it to cascade over the surface and soak into the peach flesh. This step enhances the dessert with a glossy finish and a natural sweetness that balances the smoky notes from grilling.
- Serve with Ice Cream for a Refreshing Contrast: Finally, complete the dessert by adding a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside or on top of each peach half. The contrast between the warm, smoky fruit and the cold, creamy ice cream creates an irresistible flavor and texture combination. Serve immediately while the peaches are warm and the ice cream is perfectly chilled for the best experience.
- Serving Tip: For added elegance, sprinkle crushed nuts (like almonds or pistachios) or a pinch of cinnamon over the top before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm peaches for best grilling results — overly soft peaches may fall apart.
- A fruity, high-quality olive oil enhances flavor and prevents sticking.
- Preheating the grill thoroughly ensures beautiful caramelized grill marks.
- Honey drizzled over warm peaches melts slightly, intensifying the flavor.
- This dessert is best served immediately while the peaches are warm.
- Try adding crushed nuts, fresh herbs, or spices for extra flavor.
- Works with both gas and charcoal grills — just adjust cooking times.
- Vanilla ice cream is classic, but feel free to experiment with flavors like cinnamon, almond, or coconut.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Results
The key to irresistible grilled peaches lies in choosing the right fruit.
Look for peaches that are ripe but still slightly firm — they should give gently when pressed without feeling mushy.
This ensures they hold their shape during grilling while still turning juicy and tender.
Always preheat the grill for at least 15 minutes; a hot surface prevents sticking and creates those gorgeous caramelized lines.
Brushing the peaches with just a thin layer of olive oil keeps them moist and enhances their flavor without overpowering their natural sweetness.
Lastly, patience is essential — let the peaches sit undisturbed on the grill until they release easily, as moving them too soon can cause tearing.
Serving Suggestions You’ll Love
This dessert is a showstopper on its own, but you can elevate it further with creative pairings.
Serve the peaches warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate sweet-and-smoky contrast.
For a healthier twist, swap the ice cream with Greek yogurt, which adds protein and tang.
A sprinkle of crushed pistachios, almonds, or granola gives the dish a delightful crunch, while a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg brings warmth and depth.
For a gourmet presentation, drizzle with balsamic glaze or pair with fresh mint leaves.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a quick weeknight treat, these peaches fit any occasion beautifully.
Storage Tips for Later Enjoyment
Grilled peaches are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored for later use.
Place cooled peaches in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Keep in mind that their texture will soften over time, so they’re best used in smoothies, yogurt bowls, or as a topping for oatmeal after storage.
Avoid freezing grilled peaches, as they tend to lose both flavor and structure once thawed.
If you plan to prepare in advance, you can slice and refrigerate raw peaches for up to a day, then grill them just before serving for the freshest results.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Fresh peaches are strongly recommended for this recipe, as they hold up better on the grill and provide a naturally sweet, juicy flavor.
Canned peaches are softer and may fall apart when heated, but they can be used if grilling isn’t an option — just skip the grill step and warm them lightly before serving.
2. Do I need to peel the peaches before grilling?
No, peeling is not necessary. The skin helps hold the fruit together while grilling and adds extra fiber. Once cooked, the skin softens and becomes easier to eat. If you prefer a smoother texture, you may peel them after grilling.
3. What other oils can I use instead of olive oil?
While fruity olive oil is ideal for enhancing flavor, you can substitute with melted coconut oil or avocado oil for a slightly different taste. Avoid neutral oils like canola, as they don’t add much character to the dish.
4. Can I prepare this dessert without a grill?
Yes! If a grill isn’t available, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the peaches in the oven. Both methods will still caramelize the fruit and bring out their sweetness, though the smoky flavor will be less pronounced.
5. What ice cream flavors pair best with grilled peaches?
Vanilla is a classic choice, but grilled peaches pair wonderfully with flavors like honey, cinnamon, caramel, almond, or even coconut. For a lighter alternative, frozen yogurt or dairy-free ice cream also works beautifully.
