Name: Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 and 1/2 cups cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 stick (4 ounces) stick unsalted butter (VERY cold and cut into tiny pieces); 1 large egg; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 2 tablespoons heavy cream (plus more for brushing biscuits); 4 ripe peaches ripe peaches (pitted and sliced into larger wedges); 1 tablespoon canola oil; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar; 1/2 cup fresh blueberries; 1/2 cup fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup fresh blackberries; 1 sprig Mint sprig ((optional))

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something magical about summer desserts, and Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes are a true celebration of the season’s sweetest bounty. I remember the first summer I discovered this delightful combination. It was a warm evening, the sun was setting, and the aroma of grilled peaches filled the air as friends gathered around the backyard. The moment those juicy, caramelized peaches met the fluffy shortcakes, it was pure bliss. Every bite takes me back to those carefree summer nights, where laughter echoed and the taste of fresh fruit brought us all closer together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

The Magic of This Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes

Fresh Ingredients are Key

One of the reasons I absolutely adore Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes is the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. When you bite into a ripe peach or a plump berry, their natural sweetness shines through, elevating the entire dish. It’s a reminder of the vibrant flavors that summer has to offer.

Grilling Brings Out Flavor

Grilling the peaches adds a unique depth of flavor. The heat transforms them, creating beautiful grill marks while intensifying their sweetness. This charred exterior complements the softness of the whipped cream and the tender shortcakes, creating a delightful contrast in textures.

Perfect for Gatherings

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert for your next gathering, look no further! These shortcakes are not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to assemble. You can prepare the components ahead of time and simply layer them when it’s time to serve, making them a stress-free option for entertaining.

Endless Customization

While the original recipe is fantastic, the possibilities are endless. You can experiment with different fruits, such as strawberries or nectarines, to keep things interesting. The versatility of this dish means you can make it your own, tailoring it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand.

Heartwarming Memories

For me, Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes are more than just a dessert; they represent cherished memories. Each time I make them, it reminds me of summer gatherings with family and friends, filled with love and laughter. It’s a way to capture the essence of the season and share it with those I care about.

Ingredients to Make Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes

The ingredients for Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes are a celebration of summer, embracing the flavors of the season. These ingredients work together to create a harmonious balance of sweetness and texture, making every bite a delight. Let’s explore the key players in this scrumptious dessert.

2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for our shortcakes, giving them a light, fluffy texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the shortcakes.
1 tablespoon baking powder: This is our leavening agent, helping the shortcakes rise beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adding a touch more lift and balancing the acidity of our ingredients.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the shortcakes, creating a lovely contrast with the fruit.
1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter, VERY cold and cut into tiny pieces: Essential for flaky, tender shortcakes.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
1/2 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and tang to our shortcakes.
2 tablespoons heavy cream, plus more for brushing biscuits: This helps brush on top for a golden finish.
4 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced into larger wedges: The star of our dessert, grilled to perfection.
1 tablespoon canola oil: Helps to grill the peaches without sticking.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to perfection to layer within the dessert.
2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream.
1/2 cup fresh blueberries: Adds a burst of flavor and color.
1/2 cup fresh raspberries: A tart contrast to the sweetness of the peaches.
1/2 cup fresh blackberries: Deepen the flavor of our berry medley.
Mint sprig (optional): A fresh garnish to elevate the presentation.

Recipe Directions for Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes

Making Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes is a delightful process that involves a few simple steps. Let’s dive into creating this beautiful and delicious dessert together.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This ensures the shortcakes won’t stick.
In a large bowl, combine 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Mix everything well until evenly combined, creating a dry mixture.
Cut 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter into small cubes. Work it into the flour mixture using your fingers, two forks, or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse meal. You should see pea-sized chunks of butter throughout.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1/2 cup buttermilk, and 2 tablespoons heavy cream. This will be our wet mixture.
Add the wet mixture to the flour/butter mixture. Use a fork to stir everything together until just moistened. Be careful not to overwork the dough; you want it to remain tender.
Turn the dough out onto a clean, lightly floured work surface. Gently knead it about 5 or 6 times to bring it together. The dough should be cohesive but not overworked.
Pat the dough into an even thickness of about 1 and 1/2 inches. Use a 3-inch biscuit cutter to cut out 4 rounds. Carefully transfer the biscuits to the prepared baking sheet, placing them 2 inches apart.
Lightly brush the top of each biscuit with some additional heavy cream. This will give them a beautiful golden color while baking.
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown. Allow them to cool for 10 minutes on the baking sheet; this helps them firm up.
While the biscuits are cooling, heat your grill to medium-high. Brush the 4 ripe peaches with 1 tablespoon canola oil. Place them on the grill for about 4 minutes; then gently flip the peaches and continue to grill for another 3 to 4 minutes. Look for beautiful grill marks and a caramelized appearance.
Once the peaches are done, carefully remove them from the grill and set them aside until needed.
In a large bowl, using a handheld mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat together 1 cup heavy whipping cream and 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar until soft peaks form. Set aside or refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
To assemble, slice the biscuits in half. Layer them with the whipped cream, grilled peach slices, and a mix of 1/2 cup fresh blueberries, 1/2 cup fresh raspberries, and 1/2 cup fresh blackberries. If desired, garnish with mint springs for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious summer treat!

Things Worth Knowing

Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and buttermilk are very cold for flakier biscuits. Cold ingredients lead to less gluten formation, resulting in tender shortcakes.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits, so be gentle.
Watch the Peaches: Keep an eye on the peaches while grilling to prevent them from turning mushy. You want them to be tender but still hold their shape.
Layering is Key: When assembling, layer the whipped cream, peaches, and berries generously to ensure each bite is bursting with flavor.

Helpful Notes about Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes

Making Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes can be a delightful experience, and there are a few tips that can enhance your outcome. Let’s explore some important notes to ensure your dessert is a hit!

Storage: After assembling the shortcakes, they are best enjoyed immediately. However, you can store leftover shortcake components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the biscuits for up to 2 months. Just thaw them completely before reheating. For the best results, reheat in the oven to maintain their texture.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar in the whipped cream to your liking. Some prefer a sweeter cream to balance the tartness of the berries.
Variations: Experiment with different fruits or add a splash of citrus zest to the whipped cream for an extra zing. Seasonal variations can keep this recipe exciting!
Presentation: For an elegant touch, layer the fruits and cream in a glass to create a visually appealing dessert that showcases the beautiful colors.

What Complements This Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes

Pairing your Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions:

Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream goes beautifully with the warm shortcakes, adding a creamy richness to the dish.
Fresh Mint: Garnishing with fresh mint not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color and freshness to the dessert.
Summer Salads: Serve alongside a light summer salad, such as spinach or arugula with balsamic dressing, to create a balanced meal.
Outdoor Picnics: These shortcakes are perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings. They’re easy to transport and sure to impress your guests!
Seasonal Celebrations: These shortcakes make an excellent dessert for summer barbecues, birthdays, or any festive occasion where fresh fruit is celebrated.

FAQ

Choosing the right peaches is crucial for grilling. You want peaches that are slightly firm but ripe, as they hold up better on the grill without getting mushy. Look for peaches that emit a sweet aroma and have a vibrant color. Freestone peaches are ideal because the pit separates easily from the flesh. Avoid overripe peaches, as they may fall apart on the grill. When you use fresh, quality peaches, the natural sweetness intensifies, making your Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes even more delightful.

Absolutely! You can make the biscuits for your Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes up to 2 days in advance. After baking, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the biscuits for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw them completely before serving and reheat them in the oven for the best texture. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dessert without the last-minute rush!

If you find yourself out of buttermilk while preparing your Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes, don’t worry! You can make a quick substitute using regular milk and lemon juice. Just add 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice to a measuring cup, and then fill it with whole milk until you reach the 1-cup mark. Give it a stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This mixture will mimic the acidity of buttermilk and work perfectly in your recipe!

While fresh fruit is recommended for Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes, you can use frozen fruit in a pinch. However, keep in mind that frozen fruit can release more moisture during cooking, which may alter the texture of your dessert. To mitigate this, try roasting or grilling the frozen fruit before adding it to the shortcakes. This will help to intensify the flavors while reducing excess moisture. Fresh or frozen, the key is to enjoy the deliciousness of summer fruits!

Conclusion

Grilled Peach and Mixed Berry Shortcakes are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of summer flavors and cherished moments. Each bite brings together the sweetness of fresh peaches and berries, balanced with fluffy shortcakes and creamy whipped topping. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and bring a little sunshine to your table.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply treating yourself, this dessert is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy the delightful taste of summer!