Grilled Maple Bourbon Peaches - New Hampshire Style

Introduction

There's nothing like the sweet, smoky perfection of Grilled Maple Bourbon Peaches on an Arteflame Grill. This New Hampshire inspired summer dish is simple to make, yet incredibly impressive—perfect as a dessert or sweet side. The caramelized peaches get a deep layer of flavor from the maple bourbon glaze while being perfectly grilled on the Arteflame's flat cooktop griddle. By mastering the heat zones and using butter for added richness, this is the ultimate peach recipe for summer grilling in New Hampshire.

Ingredients

• 4 large ripe but firm fresh peaches, halved and pits removed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus extra for grilling)
• 2 tablespoons pure New Hampshire maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon bourbon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a bit of vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of your Arteflame Grill.
3. Stack firewood on top of the paper and light it.
4. Wait approximately 20 minutes for the grill to heat up—ideal grilling heat zones form naturally with the center being hottest.

Step 2: Prepare the Maple Bourbon Glaze

1. In a small heat-safe bowl, melt 2 tablespoons of butter directly on the griddle’s cooler outer edge.
2. Stir in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon bourbon, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
3. Let the glaze simmer gently on the griddle’s edge, stirring occasionally. Slide to an even cooler spot to prevent scorching if necessary.

Step 3: Grill the Peaches

1. Brush the cut side of the peach halves with butter.
2. Place the peaches cut-side down on the flat cooktop griddle, positioning them closer to the center for more heat.
3. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until caramelized lines form.
4. Flip the peaches and brush with the maple bourbon glaze.
5. Grill the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes, brushing with more glaze as desired.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the grilled peaches from the griddle and plate them cut-side up.
2. Brush with any remaining glaze.
3. Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Tips

• Use slightly firm peaches so they hold up to the heat and don’t become mushy.
• The center of the flat top is hotter, perfect for caramelizing. Use outer edges to keep peaches warm without overcooking.
• If your peaches are super juicy, pat them dry slightly before grilling so they sear better and caramelize faster.
• Don’t walk away—peaches grill fast. Keep an eye on them for the perfect sear.
• Clean-up is effortless with the Arteflame—just scrape the surface after cooling and it's ready to go next time.

Variations

• Honey Vanilla Peaches: Replace maple and bourbon with 2 tbsp honey and 1 tsp vanilla extract for a family-friendly, floral version.
• Spiced Rum Peaches: Swap bourbon for dark spiced rum and add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm tropical depth.
• Peach Bourbon & Brown Sugar: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the glaze for richer color and a deeper molasses flavor.
• Grilled Peach Caprese: After grilling, top peach halves with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet-savory twist.
• Chili Maple Peaches: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili powder to the glaze for sweet heat lovers.

Best pairings

• Vanilla bean ice cream for dessert-style indulgence
• Grilled pork chops for a sweet and savory plate
• A chilled glass of Riesling or a fruity bourbon cocktail
• Fresh ricotta or Greek yogurt on the side for a creamy contrast

Conclusion

This Grilled Maple Bourbon Peaches recipe is a fantastic use of New Hampshire’s signature maple syrup and peak-season peaches. The Arteflame grill brings out the caramelized sugars beautifully while keeping the process simple and cleanup easy. Whether you're feeding a crowd or indulging in a quiet backyard moment, this dish delivers smoky sweetness in every juicy bite.