Grilled peaches are a tasty treat that really shine when topped with a warm cinnamon honey sauce. Picture sweet, juicy peaches caramelizing on the grill—yum!
It’s like summer on a plate! I love serving these as a dessert or a fun snack. Just pair them with some ice cream, and you’ve got a perfect combo for a sunny day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star of this dish, bringing natural sweetness and juiciness. If you can’t find ripe peaches, nectarines work well too. Just make sure they are firm but slightly soft to the touch.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to achieve that nice caramelization on the peaches. If you want a different flavor, try coconut oil or even a light vegetable oil. Just avoid oils with strong tastes that could overpower the peaches.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and depth. If you’re looking for a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup can be great substitutes. Both provide a similar sweetness without any animal products.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon gives a warm, cozy flavor. If you prefer a different spice, try nutmeg or cardamom for a change. Just use a bit less since these spices can be stronger.
Butter: While it’s optional, butter adds richness to the sauce. If you want to keep it dairy-free, skip the butter or use a vegan butter substitute for a creamy finish.
How Do You Grill Peaches to Perfection?
Grilling peaches requires a little attention to ensure they’re sweet and tender without becoming mushy. Here’s how to do it step by step:
- Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This is key to preventing sticking and achieving perfect grill marks.
- Brush the peach halves with olive oil. This not only helps them grill nicely but also enhances their flavor.
- Don’t skip the salt! A little salt boosts the sweetness of the peaches. Just a pinch on the cut side before grilling does the trick.
- Place the peach halves cut side down on the grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them; once you see grill marks and they begin to soften, they’re ready!
Let the grilled peaches rest for a minute before drizzling with your warm cinnamon honey sauce for a delightful treat! Enjoy your grilling experience!
How to Make Grilled Peaches With Cinnamon Honey Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Peaches:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
For the Cinnamon Honey Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to grill. In just under 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and healthy dessert ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that the peaches cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
2. Preparing the Peaches:
While the grill is heating, brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. Sprinkle a little bit of salt over them, which will enhance their flavor during grilling.
3. Grilling the Peaches:
Once the grill is ready, place the peach halves cut side down directly on the grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes. You’re looking for nice grill marks and a bit of softness in the peaches. Don’t worry if they’re not super soft, they’ll continue to cook a little after being removed from the grill.
4. Making the Cinnamon Honey Sauce:
While the peaches are grilling, take a small saucepan and place it over low heat. Add the honey and ground cinnamon to the saucepan. If you want to make it extra rich, stir in the butter. Stir all the ingredients together until the butter is melted and it’s warmed up, but don’t let it boil—just enough to combine the flavors!
5. Serving the Grilled Peaches:
Once your peaches are off the grill, carefully place them on a serving plate. Drizzle that warm cinnamon honey sauce generously over the top of the grilled peaches.
6. Garnishing:
If you’d like, add some fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your grilled peaches warm and enjoy this delicious treat!
Can I Use Other Fruits for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While peaches are delicious, you can also use nectarines, plums, or even pineapple for a similar grilled experience. Just keep in mind that different fruits may have varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly!
How Do I Ripen Peaches Quickly?
If your peaches aren’t quite ripe, place them in a brown paper bag at room temperature for 1-2 days. This traps ethylene gas, which helps speed up the ripening process. Keep an eye on them, as they can ripen quickly!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Peaches
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated in the microwave to warm them up again. Just be cautious not to overheat, as this may make them mushy.
Can I Make the Cinnamon Honey Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the cinnamon honey sauce in advance. Just store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to one week. When you’re ready to use it, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warm.
