Vanilla Ice Cream with Grilled Peaches

When summer peaches are at their sweetest, you’ll usually find me out by the grill with a smile on my face. I can’t resist the magic of vanilla ice cream with grilled peaches, it’s one of those simple pleasures that makes my heart happy.

There’s just something about watching those tender peaches turn into caramelized little jewels, then pairing them with a cold, creamy scoop of ice cream. For me, that’s pure summer joy on a plate.

What Makes My Vanilla Ice Cream with Grilled Peaches So Good

Your taste buds are in for such a treat with this vanilla ice cream with grilled peaches combination. The contrast between warm, smoky fruit and cold cream creates texture magic in every bite.

I keep coming back to this dessert because it’s both elegant enough for dinner parties and simple enough for weeknight indulgence.

Speaking of peachy perfection, you might also fall head over heels for my no-churn peach cobbler ice cream when you want that cobbler vibe without the oven heat.

And if you’re hosting a summer gathering, these creamy peach cobbler cheesecake bars make incredible companions to grilled stone fruit.

What You’ll Need to Make This Vanilla Ice Cream with Grilled Peaches

For the grilled fruit:

• 3 large ripe peaches (firm but yielding to gentle pressure)
• 2 ripe nectarines
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (I use avocado oil)
• Pinch of sea salt

For serving:

• 6-8 generous scoops quality vanilla ice cream
• 3 tablespoons honey (local wildflower honey is my favorite)
• Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Notes: Choose fruit that gives slightly when pressed but isn’t mushy. Stone fruit that’s too soft will fall apart on the grill.

If peaches aren’t quite ripe, leave them on your counter for a day or two.

How I Make This Vanilla Ice Cream with Grilled Peaches

Step 1: Fire up your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). While it’s heating, slice your peaches and nectarines in half, removing the pits. Pat each half dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Brush both sides of the fruit halves lightly with oil. Don’t skip this step—it prevents sticking and helps create those beautiful grill marks.

Step 3: Place fruit cut-side down on the grill grates. Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them. You’ll hear that satisfying sizzle.

Step 4: Rotate each piece 45 degrees to create crosshatch marks, then cook another 2 minutes. The edges should start caramelizing and the fruit should release easily from the grates.

Step 5: Flip carefully and grill the skin side for 1-2 minutes more. Your vanilla ice cream with grilled peaches is almost ready!

Step 6: Transfer to a serving platter and nestle a scoop of vanilla ice cream into each fruit half. Drizzle with honey and finish with a delicate sprinkle of flaky salt.

My Best Tips for Perfect Vanilla Ice Cream with Grilled Peaches

Oil your grill grates well before heating—this prevents heartbreaking fruit casualties.

I learned this the hard way after losing half my peaches to sticky grates one summer evening. Also, resist the urge to move the fruit too soon.

Those beautiful char marks only develop when you give them time. If your fruit starts browning too quickly, move it to a cooler spot on the grill rather than removing it entirely.

For more seasonal inspiration and stone fruit recipes, I’d love for you to follow along on Pinterest where I share my latest kitchen adventures and seasonal favorites.

Can I make vanilla ice cream with grilled peaches ahead of time?

The grilled fruit tastes best warm, but you can grill it up to 2 hours ahead and gently reheat on the stove before serving.

Keep it covered at room temperature, not in the fridge, to preserve that tender texture.

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What if I don’t have a grill?

Your oven broiler works beautifully!

Place oiled fruit halves on a baking sheet and broil 4-6 inches from the heat for 3-4 minutes per side, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Can I use other stone fruits?

Absolutely! Plums, apricots, and even firm pears work wonderfully. Adjust cooking time based on the fruit’s size and firmness.

How do I know when the fruit is perfectly grilled?

You’re looking for golden caramelization around the edges and tender fruit that still holds its shape.

It should smell incredibly fragrant and give slightly when pressed with tongs.

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When I Usually Serve My Vanilla Ice Cream with Grilled Peaches

This vanilla ice cream with grilled peaches shines brightest at backyard barbecues and summer dinner parties.

I often make it when friends gather on our deck, and it never fails to spark conversation.

The combination works beautifully after grilled meals, and I’ve served it at everything from casual family dinners to anniversary celebrations.