This Smoked Peaches recipe is kissed with a subtle essence of smokiness and enhanced by a delicate drizzle of golden honey and whipped cream. Pair them with mixed greens and creamy feta cheese if you’re looking something savory. These tender peaches are sure to elevate your summer gatherings!
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You may also love our Grilled Peaches and Homemade Peach Iced Tea recipes.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Enhanced Flavor: Smoking peaches adds a unique depth of flavor that you can’t achieve through other cooking methods. The combination of the natural sweetness of the peaches and the smoky aroma from the smoking process creates something special!
- Texture Transformation: These are soft and will melt in your mouth.
- Versatile: The peaches can be used in a variety of dishes, both savory and sweet. They make a great addition to salads, salsas, chutneys, desserts, or even as a topping for grilled meats or seafood.
What Type of Peaches to Use/How to Shop
- Ripe: Choose peaches that are fully ripe but still firm to the touch. They should give slightly when gently pressed, indicating that they are juicy and flavorful.
- Firm: Avoid overly soft or mushy peaches, as they may not hold up well during smoking and could become too tender or fall apart.
- Free of Bruises or Blemishes: Select peaches that are free of bruises, blemishes, or signs of mold. The skin should be smooth and unblemished, indicating freshness.
You can also use nectarines.
How to Make Smoked Peaches
Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Preheat the smoker or pellet grill.
- Drizzle olive oil onto the peaches. Places the halved peaches on the smoker/grill.
- Grill and smoke.
What Flavor of Wood or Pellets to Use
You’ll want to choose a wood that complements their delicate flavor without overpowering it. Here are some options that work well:
- Fruit Woods: Woods like apple, cherry, or peach wood itself are excellent choices. They impart a subtle sweetness and fruity aroma that enhances the natural flavor of the peaches without dominating it.
- Pecan: Pecan wood provides a mild and slightly sweet smoke flavor that pairs nicely with the sweetness of the peaches. It adds a rich and nutty undertone without overwhelming the delicate fruit.
- Maple: Maple wood offers a gentle, sweet smoke flavor with hints of caramel and vanilla. It complements the natural sweetness of the peaches.
- Oak: Oak wood provides a robust smoke flavor that’s well-balanced and not too overpowering. It adds depth without masking their delicate taste.
Cook Time/How Long to Smoke
The cook time will vary and depends on various factors such as the size and ripeness of the peaches, the type of smoker you use, and how much smoky flavor you’re going for. The smoking time typically ranges from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
For smaller or less ripe peaches, shorter smoking times will work to achieve the desired flavor. For larger or firmer peaches, or if you prefer a stronger smoke flavor, you may opt for longer smoking times.
How to Tell When They Are Done Cooking
Keep an eye on the peaches while they’re smoking and check them periodically to gauge their doneness. The peaches should be tender but not mushy, with a slight caramelization on the surface. You can test for doneness by inserting a fork or skewer into the flesh of the peaches; it should glide in easily.
How to Pair Them/Ways to Use Them
- Salad: Combine the peaches with mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese or feta, toasted nuts (such as pecans or almonds), and a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing and flavorful salad.
- Salsa: Chop the peach slices and combine them with diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño peppers, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to make a vibrant and flavorful salsa. Serve with tortilla chips or grilled meats.
- Bruschetta: Top toasted baguette slices with a mixture of grilled peach slices, creamy ricotta cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for a delightful appetizer or snack.
- Parfait: Layer peach slices with Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream, granola, and a drizzle of honey for a delicious dessert.
How to Store Them
Leftover peaches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. After this time, their texture and flavor may start to deteriorate, so it’s best to enjoy them sooner rather than later.
Freezer Tips
You can freeze them tightly covered and sealed for several months. Defrost overnight in the fridge.
Pair With These Recipes
BBQ Chicken Drumsticks and Thighs
Southern Coleslaw
Vinegar Based Coleslaw with No Mayo
Soul Food Potato Salad
Potato Salad with Bacon
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Southern Baked Beans
Broccoli Salad with Bacon
Smoked Peaches
Ingredients
- 3-4 peaches sliced in half
- olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the smoker or pellet grill to 225 degrees.
- Drizzle olive oil onto the peaches. Places the halved peaches on the smoker/grill.
- Grill for 30-60 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook the peaches until the edges of the peach slices are caramelized and golden brown. You can also taste to ensure they have achieved the smoky taste you are looking for.