Get ready for a sweet treat with maple grilled peaches topped with crunchy almond cookie crumbs! The warm, juicy peaches soaked in maple syrup create a flavor that’s hard to resist.
Honestly, this dish feels like summer on a plate! I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra yum. It’s super easy and makes backyard barbecues feel special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are a must for this recipe. Look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch. If you can’t find peaches, nectarines work great too!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to help prevent sticking. If you prefer, you could use melted coconut oil or vegetable oil, but I love the flavor of olive oil best.
Maple Syrup: This adds natural sweetness. If you’re looking for a substitution, honey or agave syrup can work well, though they each have a distinct flavor.
Almond Cookies: These are the base for the crumb topping. You can use any nut-based cookie here, like pecan or hazelnut cookies. If you want to make this nut-free, try crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: Serving with vanilla ice cream adds creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut ice cream or whipped coconut cream instead!
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Them Sticking?
Grilling peaches can be tricky when it comes to sticking. The key to getting nice grill marks and prevent them from tearing is to oil them properly.
- Brush the cut sides of the peaches with olive oil before placing them on the grill. This not only prevents sticking but also adds flavor.
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat. You want it hot enough to create grill marks but not so hot that the peaches burn.
- Grill the peaches cut-side down first. This gives them time to soften while also forming a beautiful char.
- Watch your grilling time! About 4-5 minutes on the first side should be enough, then flip and brush them with the maple syrup mixture.
How to Make Maple Grilled Peaches with Almond Cookie Crumb
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Peaches:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For the Almond Cookie Crumb:
- 1 cup almond cookies, crushed (about 6-8 cookies)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Optional Toppings:
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a sweet treat that’s warm, gooey, and oh-so-satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This is important as it allows the peaches to cook evenly and develop those lovely grill marks!
2. Make the Maple Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This sweet and spicy blend will enhance the natural flavors of the peaches. Once mixed, set it aside for later.
3. Prepare the Peaches:
Brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and gives them a nice golden color as they grill.
4. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes until you see grill marks and the peaches start to soften a bit. This adds a wonderful smoky flavor!
5. Add the Maple Mixture:
Carefully flip the peaches over, and brush them with the maple syrup mixture you made earlier. Grill for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
6. Make the Almond Cookie Crumb:
While the peaches are grilling, prepare the almond cookie crumb. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed almond cookies with the melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are nicely coated in butter, making them deliciously crunchy!
7. Top and Serve:
Once the peaches are done, remove them from the grill and let them cool for a minute or two. Top each peach half generously with the almond cookie crumb mixture. Yum!
8. Enjoy:
Serve these warm grilled peaches on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you like. Dig in and enjoy this delightful summer dessert!
Can I Use Nectarines Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! Nectarines can be a great substitute for peaches in this recipe. They have a similar flavor and texture, plus they grill beautifully. Just make sure they’re ripe for the best results!
What If I Don’t Have Almond Cookies?
No problem! You can use any type of cookie you have on hand, such as shortbread or vanilla wafers. Just crush them up as you would the almond cookies. If you want to keep it nut-free, simply skip the nuts and add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Peaches?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them up on the grill or in a microwave for a few seconds. They’re delicious even cold, especially with a bit of ice cream!
Can I Grill the Peaches Indoors?
Yes! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop. Preheat the pan over medium heat and follow the same grilling instructions. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
