7 Irresistible Grilled Desserts: Sweet Treats Over an Open Flame
1. Grilled Fruit Kabobs
Start your grilling dessert adventure with colorful and flavorful fruit kabobs. Thread chunks of pineapple, strawberries, mangoes, and bananas onto skewers. To enhance the flavors, you can marinate the fruit in a mixture of honey, lime juice, and a hint of chili powder for a sweet and tangy kick. Grill the kabobs until the fruits are caramelized and have beautiful grill marks, infusing them with a smoky sweetness. Serve these delightful kabobs with a drizzle of honey infused with fresh mint or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Grilled Peaches with Mascarpone
Grilled peaches are a summer delight that combines the natural sweetness of peaches with a smoky flavor from the grill. Halve ripe peaches and remove the pits. Before grilling, brush the peach halves with a mixture of melted butter, brown sugar, and a touch of vanilla extract to enhance their caramelization. Grill them until they are tender and slightly charred, bringing out their juicy goodness. Serve the grilled peaches with a dollop of creamy mascarpone cheese mixed with a hint of lemon zest for a refreshing and sophisticated dessert that’s sure to impress.
3. Grilled Pound Cake with Berries
Transform ordinary pound cake into a gourmet dessert by grilling slices of it until they are lightly toasted and have grill marks. You can elevate the flavor by brushing the pound cake slices with a mixture of melted butter and honey or a splash of rum before grilling. Top the grilled pound cake with a mix of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries that have been lightly macerated with a sprinkle of sugar and a splash of lemon juice. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence. The contrast of warm, slightly crispy cake with cold, creamy ice cream and juicy berries is pure bliss.
4. Grilled Banana S’mores
Put a twist on the classic campfire treat by grilling banana s’mores. Slit a banana lengthwise (keeping the peel intact) and stuff it with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers. Wrap the stuffed banana in foil and grill until the chocolate and marshmallows are melted and gooey, infusing the banana with rich flavors. Carefully unwrap the foil and enjoy the gooey goodness with a spoon or scoop it over ice cream for an irresistible dessert. You can also add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for extra decadence.
5. Grilled Watermelon Salad with Feta
Grilling watermelon might sound unconventional, but it creates a unique and refreshing dessert. Slice watermelon into thick wedges and lightly brush them with olive oil before grilling to prevent sticking and enhance caramelization. Grill the watermelon until grill marks appear, intensifying its sweetness and adding a smoky flavor. Toss the grilled watermelon with crumbled feta cheese, fresh mint leaves, a squeeze of lime juice, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of sweet, salty, tangy, and minty flavors makes this a memorable and sophisticated dessert option that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
6. Grilled Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Put a tropical twist on a classic dessert by grilling a pineapple upside-down cake. Start by grilling pineapple slices until they’re caramelized and have grill marks, intensifying their sweetness and adding a smoky flavor. In a cast-iron skillet, arrange the grilled pineapple slices in a single layer and top them with a mixture of brown sugar, butter, and a hint of rum or coconut extract. Pour cake batter over the pineapple layer and grill with the lid closed until the cake is cooked through and golden brown. Invert the skillet onto a serving plate to reveal the caramelized pineapple topping. Serve warm with a scoop of coconut ice cream or whipped cream for a heavenly dessert experience that transports you to a tropical paradise.
7. Grilled Apple Crisp Packets
Create individual servings of apple crisp by grilling them in foil packets. Slice apples and toss them with cinnamon, nutmeg, a bit of brown sugar, and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance their flavors. Divide the apple mixture among foil packets and top each with a mixture of oats, flour, butter, and a touch of honey or maple syrup for a crunchy topping. Seal the packets tightly and grill until the apples are tender and the topping is golden and crisp, infusing the apples with warm, cinnamon-spiced goodness. Serve these warm packets with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream for a comforting and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for cool evenings by the grill.
Tips for Grilling Desserts
- Use ripe but firm fruits for grilling to ensure they hold their shape.
- Brush fruits or cakes lightly with oil or melted butter to prevent sticking and promote caramelization.
- Experiment with different toppings like nuts, sauces, and spices to enhance flavors.
- Monitor grill temperatures to avoid burning or overcooking delicate desserts.
- Serve grilled desserts immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.