Juicy grilled peaches topped with a sprinkle of sweet almond cookie crumbs make for a yummy dessert! The warm, caramelized fruit is a true treat.
Grilling these peaches brings out their natural sweetness, and those crunchy crumbs add a fun twist. I love serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are essential for this recipe. Their sweetness and juiciness provide the perfect base. If peaches aren’t in season, try using ripe nectarines or even plums for a similar flavor and texture.
Maple Syrup: This adds natural sweetness, but if you’re out, honey or agave syrup can work too. Just consider the slight flavor differences, as honey is stronger. I like to choose pure maple syrup for the best taste!
Olive Oil (or Butter): Olive oil gives a nice flavor, but melted butter will add richness. For a dairy-free option, go with coconut oil. Both choices will allow the peaches to grill beautifully.
Almond Cookies: You can use store-bought, but crushed graham crackers or biscotti can be great substitutes too, especially if you want a different crunch. Homemade cookies are great if you have the time—plus, it’s a fun way to add a personal touch!
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches is a fantastic way to enhance their natural sweetness. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat—too hot and the peaches will burn.
- Brush the peach halves nicely with your maple syrup mixture to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Place the peaches cut side down on the grill and close the lid for even cooking.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes until you see grill marks. They should be soft but still hold their shape.
Don’t forget—keeping an eye on them is crucial, as grilling times may vary based on your grill.
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 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup almond cookies, crushed (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and around 5-10 minutes of grilling. In total, you can enjoy these delightful grilled peaches in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your peaches get those lovely grill marks and cook evenly.
2. Mix the Maple Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, olive oil (or melted butter), cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is blended together. This sweet mixture will enhance the flavor of your peaches.
3. Brush the Peaches:
Take your peach halves and brush the cut sides with the maple syrup mixture. Make sure to coat them well for a delicious caramelized flavor while grilling.
4. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peaches cut side down on the grill, and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes. Watch carefully for the grill marks to appear and the peaches to soften. When they look good, they are ready to come off the grill!
5. Prepare the Almond Crumb:
While your peaches are grilling, take another bowl and mix together the crushed almond cookies and chopped almonds if you choose to use them. This crunchy topping will add texture to your dish.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Once the peaches are grilled, gently remove them and place them on a serving platter. Spoon the almond cookie crumb mixture generously over each grilled peach half.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Optional but delicious, serve the grilled peaches warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Enjoy your sweet and fruity treat! It’s perfect for a summer dessert or a delightful snack!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! You can use firm plums, nectarines, or even pineapple slices for grilling. Just keep in mind that grilling times may vary based on the fruit’s ripeness and texture, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
Can I Make the Almond Cookie Crumble Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the almond cookie crumb mixture ahead of time! Just crush the cookies and chop the almonds, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This way, you’ll have everything ready for a quick assembly when you’re ready to serve.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Peaches?
Store any leftover grilled peaches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you want to reheat them, place them on a grill or in a skillet for a couple of minutes to warm them up and restore some of that grill flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Almond Cookies?
No problem! If you don’t have almond cookies on hand, crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits can work as a substitute for the crumb topping. You can mix in some chopped nuts or oats for added texture and flavor!