If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping summer dessert, Grilled Peach Sundaes are about to become your new obsession. Imagine juicy, ripe peaches kissed by the grill until caramelized and smoky, then topped with creamy vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of golden caramel, toasted pecans, and a cloud of whipped cream. It’s a heavenly mash-up of warm and cold, soft and crunchy, fresh and decadent — and it all comes together in minutes. This is the kind of treat you’ll crave after every barbecue, picnic, or lazy summer evening when you want something both stunning and effortless!

Grilled Peach Sundaes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Grilled Peach Sundaes lies in their simplicity: every ingredient packs a punch, delivering a pop of flavor, color, or texture that makes each bite unforgettable. Gather these essentials for a sundae that tastes like summer on a spoon.

Ripe peaches: Choose peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the juiciest, sweetest results on the grill.
Vegetable oil or melted butter: Brushing the cut sides keeps the peaches from sticking and helps the sugar caramelize beautifully.
Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness and encourages those gorgeous grill marks.
Cinnamon: Just a touch gives the peaches a warm, fragrant aroma that pairs perfectly with their natural sweetness.
Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing — its creamy coolness is the ultimate contrast to the warm, grilled fruit.
Chopped pecans (toasted): Toasting the pecans brings out their buttery flavor and adds irresistible crunch.
Caramel sauce: A generous drizzle ties everything together with gooey, golden richness.
Whipped cream (optional): For those who crave extra decadence, a dollop on top is pure bliss.
Fresh mint (optional): Adds a refreshing pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.

How to Make Grilled Peach Sundaes

Step 1: Prep the Grill and Peaches

Start by preheating your grill or a grill pan over medium heat. While it heats up, halve and pit your peaches, then brush the cut sides with a thin layer of vegetable oil or melted butter. This step ensures the peaches won’t stick and sets the stage for caramelization. Sprinkle each half with brown sugar and cinnamon, letting those flavors soak right in.

Step 2: Grill the Peaches

Place the peaches cut-side down on the hot grill. Let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, resisting the urge to move them so you get those perfect, Instagram-worthy grill marks. Flip the peaches and grill for another 1 to 2 minutes on the skin side, just until they’re softened and warmed through but still holding their shape.

Step 3: Assemble the Sundaes

Now comes the fun part! Nestle two grilled peach halves into each serving bowl — their sweet aroma will make it hard to wait. Top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream (or two if you’re feeling bold), then drizzle with caramel sauce. Sprinkle over the toasted pecans for crunch, and if you like, crown your sundae with whipped cream and a sprig of fresh mint.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Grilled Peach Sundaes are at their best when the peaches are still warm and the ice cream just begins to melt. Serve them straight away to enjoy that magical contrast of temperatures and textures. Watch as everyone dives in with a smile!

How to Serve Grilled Peach Sundaes

Garnishes

The right garnishes elevate Grilled Peach Sundaes from delicious to dazzling. A cloud of whipped cream, a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans, and a fresh mint sprig add visual flair and layers of flavor. You could even try a dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for a fun twist — let your creativity shine!

Side Dishes

These sundaes are a star all on their own, but if you want to round out the dessert course, they pair beautifully with crisp butter cookies or biscotti for dipping. If you’re serving a crowd, consider a platter of fresh summer berries alongside to add even more color and freshness to your table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful touch, serve Grilled Peach Sundaes in mason jars or vintage dessert cups. If you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, set up a DIY sundae bar with different ice cream flavors, nuts, and sauces so everyone can build their dream dessert. Or, for an elegant dinner, plate each sundae on a chilled dish with a delicate mint garnish for a restaurant-worthy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover grilled peaches, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the toppings and ice cream separate and assemble fresh when you’re ready for another sundae moment.

Freezing

While ice cream freezes beautifully, grilled peaches can become mushy if frozen after cooking. For best results, only freeze the raw, halved peaches (if needed), then thaw and grill just before serving. Assembled sundaes don’t freeze well, so enjoy them fresh!

Reheating

To rewarm leftover grilled peaches, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat gently in 10- to 15-second bursts until just warmed through. Alternatively, pop them back onto a grill pan for a minute or two to revive that smoky flavor before assembling your sundae.

FAQs

Can I use nectarines instead of peaches?

Absolutely! Nectarines work beautifully in Grilled Peach Sundaes — they have a similar sweetness and texture, and grill up just as nicely.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No worries at all. You can use a grill pan on your stovetop, or even broil the peaches cut-side up in your oven for a similar caramelized effect.

Can I make these dairy-free or vegan?

Definitely! Swap in your favorite plant-based butter or oil, use dairy-free vanilla ice cream, and top with coconut whipped cream. The sundaes will still be every bit as delicious.

How do I toast the pecans?

Toasting pecans is easy: simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes, or toast in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring often, until fragrant and golden.

Is there a way to add a boozy twist?

For an adults-only treat, soak the peach halves in a splash of bourbon or vanilla liqueur before grilling. It adds a lovely depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the caramel and creaminess of the sundae.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about Grilled Peach Sundaes — they capture all the best flavors of summer in every warm, melty, sweet bite. Whether you’re grilling for friends or treating yourself on a sunny evening, this is a dessert that always delights. Give them a try and let these sundaes steal the show at your next gathering!

Grilled Peach Sundaes Recipe

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4.6 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 16 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in the sweet and smoky flavors of grilled peaches paired with creamy vanilla ice cream, crunchy toasted pecans, and a luscious drizzle of caramel sauce. This simple yet elegant dessert combines warm, caramelized fruit with cold ice cream for a perfect summer treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Peaches

4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Toppings

1 pint vanilla ice cream
1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Caramel sauce, for drizzling
Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
Fresh mint, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium temperature, ensuring it’s ready for the peaches to cook evenly and gain those beautiful grill marks.
Prepare the peaches: Brush the cut sides of the peach halves generously with vegetable oil or melted butter. Sprinkle them evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon to enhance their natural sweetness.
Grill the peaches: Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until grill marks appear and the peaches begin to soften. Flip the peaches and grill the skin side for another 1 to 2 minutes to warm through without burning.
Assemble the sundaes: Place two grilled peach halves in each serving bowl. Add a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, then drizzle caramel sauce over everything. Sprinkle with toasted pecans for crunch.
Finish and serve: Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream and garnish each sundae with a fresh sprig of mint for an extra touch of elegance. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between warm peaches and cold ice cream.

Notes

Nectarines can be used as a substitute for peaches if preferred.
For an extra layer of flavor, soak peaches in bourbon or vanilla extract before grilling.
Serve the sundae warm from the grill paired with cold ice cream for the perfect temperature contrast.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American