South Carolina Grilled Peaches with Vanilla Cream

Introduction

There's nothing quite like the sweet, juicy flavor of Carolina peaches—and grilling them on an Arteflame unlocks a caramelized richness that’s unforgettable. By using the Arteflame’s flat-top griddle and center grate, you get even heat and smoky depth, beautifully finished with a cloud of vanilla whipped cream. Perfect for summertime, this dessert is quick, simple, and seriously impressive.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe South Carolina peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• Fresh mint leaves (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Place three paper napkins in the grill and soak with a small amount of vegetable oil.
2. Stack firewood on top of the napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes. This will create perfect heat distribution across the flat cooktop and center grate.

Step 2: Prepare the peaches

1. Brush the peach halves with melted butter on the cut side.
2. Sprinkle the cut side with a little brown sugar to build a caramelized crust when grilled.

Step 3: Grill the peaches

1. Place the peaches cut side down on the flat-top griddle area closest to the center for strong, even searing.
2. Cook for 3–4 minutes until grill marks form and the sugar begins to caramelize.
3. Flip the peaches skin-side down and grill for another 2–3 minutes to soften completely without burning.
4. Once caramelized and tender, remove from the grill and let them cool slightly.

Step 4: Make vanilla whipped cream

1. In a chilled bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
2. Keep chilled until ready to serve.

Step 5: Assemble and serve

1. Place two peach halves on each serving plate.
2. Top each with a generous dollop of vanilla whipped cream.
3. Garnish with fresh mint if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy while the peaches are warm.

Tips

• Use ripe but firm peaches to prevent them from becoming mushy on the grill.
• Use the area closer to the center of the flat top for a more intense sear, then move peaches outward if they start cooking too fast.
• Butter adds extra flavor and helps promote caramelization over olive oil.
• You can grill all elements of your meal simultaneously on the Arteflame using its heat zones effectively.
• Clean-up is a breeze—just scrape down the griddle and you're done!

Variations

1. Peaches with Cinnamon Cream: Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon to the whipped cream for a spiced twist.
2. Bourbon Vanilla Peaches: Splash the peaches with 1 tsp of bourbon before grilling for a smoky-sweet adult flavor.
3. Grilled Peach Caprese: Top peaches with burrata, balsamic drizzle, and basil for a savory-sweet appetizer version.
4. Peaches & Honey Greek Yogurt: Swap whipped cream for a spoonful of thick Greek yogurt drizzled with honey and lemon zest.
5. Grilled Peach Shortcakes: Serve grilled peaches atop a grilled biscuit with whipped cream for a stunning summer dessert.

Best pairings

• Glass of chilled Moscato or Riesling
• Grilled pork tenderloin or barbecue ribs
• Grilled corn on the cob with sweet cream butter
• Sparkling water with peach slices and mint

Conclusion

Grilled Carolina Peaches with Vanilla Whipped Cream is an easy yet elegant dish that captures the essence of summer—sweet, warm, and deliciously satisfying. The Arteflame grill brings out the best in the peaches, ensuring even cooking without burning. Whether it's for a backyard get-together or a romantic dinner, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.