Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter

Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter is a simple yet elegant summer dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of ripe peaches, enhanced by the warmth of cinnamon sugar butter. This recipe is ideal for summer gatherings, barbecues, or a quick, sweet treat that celebrates the flavors of the season. The combination of juicy peaches with rich, spiced butter creates a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Overview of Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter

This dessert blends sweet, warm, and slightly smoky flavors into a delightful experience. The key components include:

• Peaches: Grilled to perfection, the peaches become soft, caramelized, and full of natural sweetness.
• Cinnamon Sugar Butter: A rich and flavorful topping that melts over the warm peaches, adding a delightful cinnamon-spiced sweetness.
• Grill: The grill imparts a subtle smokiness that complements the sweetness of the peaches and the richness of the butter.

Brief History and Cultural Significance

Grilling fruit is a time-honored tradition in many cuisines, enhancing the natural sugars of the fruit and adding a unique depth of flavor. This recipe for Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter takes that tradition and pairs it with a classic, comforting flavor combination, making it a standout summer dessert. The simplicity of the ingredients and preparation allows the natural flavors of the peaches to shine, making it a timeless favorite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
• Total Time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Yield: 4 grilled peach halves

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make the perfect Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter, you’ll need the following tools and equipment:

• Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for achieving the perfect char and caramelization on the peaches.
• Pastry Brush: For applying the cinnamon sugar butter evenly to the grilled peaches.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping the peaches and handling them on the grill.

Importance of Each Tool

Each tool plays a crucial role in ensuring the peaches are prepared efficiently and effectively:

• Grill or Grill Pan: Provides the necessary heat to caramelize the peaches, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a smoky flavor.
• Pastry Brush: Allows you to evenly coat the peaches with cinnamon sugar butter, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Tongs: Helps you flip the peaches without damaging their delicate flesh, ensuring they cook evenly.

Preparation Tips

1. Choosing the Right Peaches: Opt for ripe but firm peaches. They should be fragrant and slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. Firm peaches will hold up better on the grill, while ripe ones will have the best flavor.
2. Grilling the Peaches: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the peaches cut side down first to create beautiful grill marks. Be careful not to overcook them; you want them soft but still holding their shape.
3. Making the Cinnamon Sugar Butter: Mix softened butter with cinnamon and sugar until well combined. For an extra touch of flavor, add a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract. The butter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Ingredients List

For the Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter:

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Butter:
   • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt if using. Set aside.
2. Preheat the Grill:
   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent the peaches from sticking.
3. Grill the Peaches:
   • Place the peach halves cut side down on the grill. Grill for 3-4 minutes, until the peaches are soft and have visible grill marks. Flip the peaches and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Brush with Cinnamon Sugar Butter:
   • While the peaches are still warm, generously brush each peach half with the prepared cinnamon sugar butter, allowing it to melt and seep into the fruit.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the grilled peaches warm, topped with extra cinnamon sugar butter if desired. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

By following these steps, you’ll create a beautiful, flavorful dessert that’s perfect for showcasing the best of summer’s produce.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Elevate your Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter with these creative serving suggestions and variations, adding new layers of flavor and versatility to this delightful summer dessert.

1. Adding a Scoop of Ice Cream

Pair the warm, grilled peaches with a scoop of ice cream for a classic and indulgent dessert.

Options:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the warmth of the grilled peaches and the richness of the cinnamon sugar butter.
• Caramel Ice Cream: For a deeper, richer flavor, serve the peaches with caramel ice cream, adding a touch of buttery sweetness.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: Enhance the cinnamon flavor by pairing the peaches with cinnamon ice cream, creating a perfectly spiced dessert.

2. Using Different Fruits

Experiment with other fruits on the grill to create a variety of flavors.

Options:

• Pineapple: Grilled pineapple slices pair wonderfully with cinnamon sugar butter, offering a tropical twist to the dish.
• Plums: Grilled plums bring a slightly tart contrast to the sweetness of the peaches, adding complexity to the flavor profile.
• Nectarines: Similar to peaches, grilled nectarines offer a smooth, sweet flavor that pairs well with the buttery cinnamon topping.

3. Drizzling with Honey or Caramel

Add an extra layer of sweetness by drizzling the grilled peaches with honey or caramel.

Instructions:

• Honey: Drizzle warm honey over the peaches just before serving for a natural, floral sweetness that enhances the fruit’s flavor.
• Caramel Sauce: A rich caramel sauce adds depth and indulgence, making the dessert even more luxurious. Drizzle it over the peaches while they’re still warm for the best effect.

4. Creating a Grilled Peach Salad

Turn your grilled peaches into a sophisticated salad for a unique twist.

Instructions:

• Combine grilled peach slices with fresh arugula, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted pecans. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or a honey vinaigrette for a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.

5. Making It a Breakfast Dish

Incorporate the grilled peaches into your breakfast routine for a sweet and satisfying start to the day.

Instructions:

• Serve the grilled peaches on top of oatmeal or yogurt, adding a sprinkle of granola and a drizzle of maple syrup for a balanced and flavorful breakfast.
• Alternatively, place the peaches on top of pancakes or waffles, and finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.

6. Serving with Pound Cake or Biscuits

Pair the grilled peaches with baked goods to create a heartier dessert.

Options:

• Pound Cake: Place the grilled peaches on slices of pound cake, and top with whipped cream for a comforting, elegant dessert.
• Biscuits: Split warm biscuits and fill them with grilled peaches and cinnamon sugar butter, creating a sweet, fruity shortcake.

7. Preparing for a Crowd

Easily scale up the recipe to serve a larger group at your next gathering.

Instructions:

• Double or triple the ingredients, and prepare the peaches in batches on the grill. Serve them buffet-style with a variety of toppings like ice cream, whipped cream, honey, and caramel sauce, allowing guests to customize their dessert.

8. Making It Vegan

Enjoy this delicious dessert with a vegan twist.

Instructions:

• Substitute the butter in the cinnamon sugar mixture with a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure any accompanying toppings, like ice cream or whipped cream, are also vegan-friendly.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Understanding the nutritional content of your Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter can help you enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 200-250
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g

Health Benefits:

• Natural Sweetness: Peaches are naturally sweet and rich in vitamins A and C, making them a healthy choice for dessert.
• Low in Calories: This dessert is relatively low in calories, especially if enjoyed without additional toppings.
• Grilling Benefits: Grilling the peaches helps to enhance their natural sugars, reducing the need for added sweeteners.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even with a straightforward recipe like Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter, there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them and perfect your dessert.

Common Mistakes:

1. Overcooking the Peaches: Grilling the peaches for too long can cause them to become mushy and lose their shape. Grill just until they are soft and have nice grill marks.
2. Using Unripe Peaches: Unripe peaches won’t caramelize as well and may have a tart, unpleasant flavor. Always choose ripe, fragrant peaches for the best results.
3. Not Preheating the Grill: A cold grill won’t caramelize the peaches properly. Always preheat your grill to medium-high before adding the peaches.

How to Perfect the Recipe:

1. Balance the Sweetness: Taste the cinnamon sugar butter mixture before using it on the peaches. Adjust the cinnamon or sugar to your liking, ensuring a balanced flavor.
2. Serve Warm: This dessert is best served warm, straight from the grill. The warmth helps the cinnamon sugar butter melt into the peaches, creating a rich, indulgent flavor.
3. Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or a dash of powdered sugar can add an extra touch of elegance to the presentation.

Tips, Notes, Storing, and Reheating

Additional Tips and Notes

• Serving Ideas: Garnish your Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter with fresh herbs like mint or basil for a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness. You can also sprinkle a bit of crushed nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for added texture and flavor.
• Making It Ahead: While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, you can prepare the cinnamon sugar butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply grill the peaches and brush them with the pre-made butter.
• Customizing the Flavors: Feel free to experiment with the cinnamon sugar butter by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a spiced twist, or a splash of bourbon for a deeper, richer flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigeration: If you have leftover grilled peaches, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The peaches may soften further, but they will still taste delicious.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the texture of the peaches can become mushy after thawing.

Best Methods for Reheating

• Oven: To reheat, place the peaches in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps to maintain the peaches’ texture while reheating them evenly.
• Microwave: For a quicker option, microwave the peaches in short intervals (10-15 seconds), checking frequently to avoid overheating. Keep in mind that the microwave may soften the peaches more than desired.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
   • While the peaches are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, you can prepare the cinnamon sugar butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Grill the peaches just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
2. How do I store the peaches to keep them fresh?
   • Store any leftover grilled peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For optimal flavor, reheat them in the oven before serving.
3. What are some other flavor combinations I can try?
   • There are many ways to customize this dessert:
     • Spiced Butter: Add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar butter for a warm, spiced flavor.
     • Bourbon-Infused: Mix a splash of bourbon into the cinnamon sugar butter for a rich, boozy twist.
     • Herb-Infused Butter: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the butter for a savory note that pairs beautifully with the sweet peaches.
4. Can I use other fruits besides peaches?
   • Absolutely! This recipe works well with a variety of fruits. Try grilling nectarines, plums, or even pineapple for a delicious variation on the classic grilled peaches.

Conclusion

Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter is a delightful summer dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe peaches with the rich, spiced flavor of cinnamon sugar butter. Whether served on their own or paired with a scoop of ice cream, these grilled peaches are sure to be a hit at any gathering. With its simple preparation and customizable options, this dessert is perfect for showcasing the best flavors of the season.

For more delightful recipes, check out these related dishes on Flavorful Side:

• Cherry Crumble
• Prosciutto Burrata Peach Salad
• Coconut Sorbet

Print