Print

Elegant Balsamic Glazed Grilled Peaches with Mascarpone

balsamic glazed grilled peaches - featured image

A quick and easy summer dessert featuring grilled peaches caramelized with a tangy balsamic glaze, paired with creamy mascarpone cheese for a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and creamy flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ripe but firm peaches, halved and pitted
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • ½ cup mascarpone cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (optional)
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Small pinch of freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey. Stir gently and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer until thickened and syrupy, about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. The glaze should coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prep the Peaches: While the glaze reduces, wash and halve 4 ripe but firm peaches. Remove pits. Lightly brush each peach half with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance caramelization.
  3. Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F / 190-204°C). The grill should be hot enough to create grill marks but not so hot that the peaches burn.
  4. Grill the Peaches: Place peach halves cut-side down on the grill. Grill for 3-4 minutes until you see nice caramelized grill marks. Flip carefully with tongs and grill flesh-side up for another 2-3 minutes. The peaches should be soft but still hold their shape.
  5. Prepare the Mascarpone: In a small mixing bowl, combine ½ cup (120 g) softened mascarpone cheese with 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme, a pinch of sea salt, and optional black pepper. Stir gently until smooth and creamy.
  6. Plate the Dessert: Arrange grilled peaches on serving plates. Spoon a generous dollop of mascarpone on or beside each peach half. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the peaches and mascarpone. Garnish with a few extra thyme leaves if desired.
  7. Serve: Enjoy immediately while the peaches are still warm and the mascarpone is cool and creamy.

Notes

If balsamic glaze thickens too much upon cooling, warm it slightly before drizzling. Brush peaches with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even grilling. Use ripe but firm peaches for best texture. For vegan version, substitute mascarpone with whipped coconut cream and honey with maple syrup. Grill peaches just before serving for best flavor and temperature contrast.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic glazed peaches, grilled peaches, summer dessert, mascarpone dessert, easy peach recipe, grilled fruit dessert, balsamic glaze, summer grilling, quick dessert