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Nothing says summer quite like grilled peaches finished with a dollop of cloud-like coconut whip and a crunch of pistachio. This recipe is a warm weather favorite for me served right off the grill and enjoyed outdoors on balmy evenings with friends or family. It feels both decadent and light and always brings a little wow to the dessert table.
My family loves how this feels fuss-free yet impressive and I first brought it to a cookout where it was gone in seconds. The cold coconut whip melts just slightly on the warm peaches and it is truly special every time.
Ingredients
- Fresh peaches: Ripe juicy peaches are key look for semi-soft fruit with fragrant aroma and slight give when pressed
- Maple syrup: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the peaches choose pure maple syrup or swap for runny honey if not vegan
- Coconut oil: Gives a subtle tropical note and prevents sticking use virgin organic for best flavor
- Full fat coconut milk or cream: Provides the rich base for the whip always chill the can overnight and avoid light versions
- Powdered sugar: Brings lightness and sweetness to the whip sift before using for smoothest texture
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and sweetness opt for pure vanilla if possible
- Pistachios: Provide crunch and bright color go for unsalted and fresh for best taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Grill:
- Start by heating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat allow at least 5 minutes for it to get good and hot for those caramelized marks
- Prep the Peaches:
- Halve the peaches and remove the pits brush each cut side generously with melted coconut oil and drizzle maple syrup over the top for the perfect glaze
- Grill the Peaches:
- Place peaches cut side down onto the hot grill let them cook for around 3 to 4 minutes until they are caramelized and have bold grill lines then flip and grill the skin side for two more minutes just until warmed through
- Make the Coconut Whip:
- Open your chilled can of coconut cream gently scoop out only the solid part into a mixing bowl add powdered sugar and vanilla then whip with a hand mixer or whisk until fluffy and light taste and add more sweetness if needed
- Assemble and Serve:
- Arrange the warm grilled peaches on serving plates add generous spoons of coconut whip on top finish each piece with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios and serve right away while still slightly warm
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Peaches are my summer obsession and nothing beats their flavor off a hot grill especially when combined with coconut and pistachio There is a photo of me as a toddler standing at my grandmother’s stove watching her caramelize peaches in butter and sugar and this plant based version takes me right back to that happy kitchen memory
Storage Tips
Grilled peaches taste best fresh but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Keep the coconut whip separate If prepping ahead wait to assemble until serving time briefly reheat peaches in a skillet before topping
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute nectarines or plums for the peaches if needed Almonds or hazelnuts also make a tasty swap for pistachios If you want a lighter whip opt for whipped cashew cream instead of coconut
Serving Suggestions
These grilled peaches shine on their own but also pair well with a scoop of dairy free vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of berry coulis For a more adult vibe serve with sweet white wine or sparkling water with fresh mint
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Cultural Context
Grilling fruit is a beloved technique in many warm climates especially across the United States Peaches are a Southern classic and this recipe is a celebration of that tradition with a vegan modern twist
Recipe FAQs
- → How should I select peaches for grilling?
Choose ripe yet firm peaches to ensure they hold shape when grilled and caramelize beautifully without turning mushy.
- → Can I use nectarines or plums instead of peaches?
Absolutely, nectarines and plums grill well and offer a similar juicy texture and sweetness for this summery dessert.
- → What’s the secret to fluffy coconut whip?
Chill the coconut milk or cream overnight, use only the thickened solid, and whip with cold equipment for the best results.
- → Any tips for enhancing peach flavor?
Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom on the peaches before grilling for a fragrant, warm note in every bite.
- → Is this dessert suitable for vegans and gluten-free diets?
Yes, this dish contains no gluten and remains vegan when using maple syrup and dairy-free coconut cream.
- → How should I serve the dish for best texture?
Serve the grilled peaches with coconut whip while slightly warm and garnish with chopped pistachios just before serving.