These maple grilled peaches are sweet and juicy, perfect for summer! They are topped with crunchy almond cookie crumbs for a fun twist. Yum!
Honestly, who knew grilling fruit could taste this awesome? I love to enjoy these with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat. It’s like a sunny day on a plate! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Use ripe, fresh peaches for the best flavor. If peaches aren’t available, nectarines or apricots can be excellent substitutes. They grill nicely too and have a similar sweetness.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is lovely for its rich flavor. If you need a vegan option, agave syrup or honey can stand in nicely, but keep in mind honey isn’t vegan!
Olive Oil: I like using olive oil for its flavor, but melted butter adds a rich taste too. You can swap it with coconut oil for a dairy-free option, which gives a different twist.
Almond Cookie Crumbs: If you can’t find almond cookie crumbs, try crushed graham crackers or even digestive biscuits for a different texture. Homemade crumbs made from almond cookies are truly special!
Sliced Almonds: Use chopped walnuts or pecans if almonds aren’t available or if you’re looking for a different flavor. They work very well in this dessert.
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Burning Them?
Grilling peaches takes a bit of care to get that perfect caramelization without burning. Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. Too hot and the peaches will char quickly.
- Brush the cut sides of the peaches with the maple syrup and olive oil mixture to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Place them cut side down on the grill for 4-5 minutes. Check them after 3 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Look for nice grill marks as your sign they’re ready to flip (if you do flip!).
Patience is key; give them time to develop that lovely char without rushing. Grilled peaches are a real treat when done right!
Maple Grilled Peaches with Almond Cookie Crumb
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Peaches:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)
For the Almond Cookie Crumb:
- 1 cup almond cookie crumbs (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 5 minutes to grill the peaches. In total, you’ll need around 15 minutes to make this wonderful treat that’s great for summer gatherings or cozy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This step is key to ensuring that the peaches cook perfectly with those beautiful grill marks!
2. Prepare the Peach Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup and olive oil (or melted butter). Using a brush, carefully apply this sweet mixture over the cut sides of the peach halves. This will help caramelize them and add extra flavor when grilling.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peaches cut side down on the hot grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes, or until they become caramelized and you can see lovely grill marks. This is when the magic happens as the sugars in the peaches enhance their sweetness!
4. Make the Almond Cookie Crumb:
While the peaches are grilling, take a separate bowl and combine the almond cookie crumbs, sliced almonds, and cinnamon. Mix these ingredients well so that the flavors blend nicely.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Once the peaches are beautifully grilled, carefully remove them from the grill and place them cut side up on a serving platter. Now, generously sprinkle the almond cookie crumb mixture over the warm grilled peaches for a delightful crunch.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
This dish is best served warm, so feel free to add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top if you like. Enjoy this delightful dessert that beautifully combines sweet, smoky flavors with a crunchy topping!
Can I Use Other Stone Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches are out of season or you want to try something different, nectarines, plums, or apricots work wonderfully as substitutes. Just adjust the grilling time slightly depending on the size and ripeness of the fruit.
What If I Don’t Have Almond Cookie Crumbs?
No worries! If you can’t find almond cookie crumbs, you can easily make your own by crushing almond biscotti or any nut-based cookies. Or, try using crushed graham crackers mixed with a few chopped almonds for a different yet tasty topping!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Peaches?
Store any leftover grilled peaches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them on the grill for a few minutes or gently warm them in the microwave. Just be careful not to overheat, so they don’t become mushy!
Can I Make This Dessert Without a Grill?
Yes! You can use a grill pan on the stove or even roast the peaches in the oven. Simply place the peach halves cut side up on a baking sheet, brush with the maple syrup and oil mixture, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until caramelized.
