Gossip Grill: Summertime Desserts…on the Grill!

Here on the blog, we’ve talked about other fun food options to grill that are NOT meat, but today we are just focusing on DESSERT!  You might be scratching your head and thinking, dessert doesn’t belong on the grill!  We are here to assure you, this is not true! You’re going to love the way the grill brings out the flavors and aromas you wouldn’t get from normal baking.  Don’t believe us?  Try it for yourself – you’re going to love the results!

Why Grill Dessert?

Grilling dessert brings out flavor through a few key processes that enhance natural sweetness, add complexity, and create appealing textures. Here’s how it works:

1. Caramelization

Grilling exposes sugars to high, direct heat. This causes caramelization—a chemical reaction that breaks down sugars and creates rich, nutty, and toasty flavors.

• Example: Grilled peaches or pineapple develop a golden crust and deeper sweetness.

2. Maillard Reaction

For desserts with proteins (like grilled pound cake or s’mores with marshmallows), the Maillard reaction adds browned, savory notes that contrast beautifully with sweetness.

3. Smoky Flavor

Grilling imparts a subtle smokiness, especially over charcoal or wood, which balances and enhances sugary ingredients with a rustic edge.

4. Juice Concentration

The heat causes fruit to release and reduce its juices, concentrating the natural sugars and making it taste more intense.

5. Texture Play

Grilling creates a crisp or charred exterior while keeping the inside tender or melty—this contrast makes the dessert more satisfying.

• Example: Grilled banana splits or grilled brownies in a cast iron skillet.

Start Simple with Fruit First

Not ready to take the full plunge into elaborate desserts?  Start with fruit first!

Grilling fruit caramelizes its natural sugars and adds a smoky depth that boosts flavor. Here are some of the best fruits to cook on the grill:

🍍 Pineapple

• Why: Firm texture and high sugar content caramelize beautifully.

• Tips: Slice into rings or spears; great with a chili-lime rub or brushed with rum.

🍑 Peaches

• Why: Juicy and sweet, they soften slightly and gain a rich, jammy flavor.

• Tips: Halve and pit; grill cut-side down. Pairs well with vanilla ice cream or burrata.

🍉 Watermelon

• Why: Grilling adds a savory, smoky contrast to its sweetness.

• Tips: Cut into thick wedges. Try with feta or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

🍌 Bananas

• Why: Heat makes them even sweeter and creamier.

• Tips: Grill halved bananas in the peel or wrapped in foil with brown sugar and cinnamon.

🍎 Apples

• Why: Firm enough to hold their shape; warm and fragrant when grilled.

• Tips: Core and slice thickly; delicious with maple glaze or stuffed with granola.

🍐 Pears

• Why: Grilling intensifies their sweetness and adds a slight crispness.

• Tips: Halve and core; try with honey, walnuts, or a touch of blue cheese.

🍓 Strawberries

• Why: Small but flavorful, they become jammy and intense.

• Tips: Skewer or grill in a basket; serve over pound cake or yogurt.

🍇 Grapes

• Why: Become plump, juicy, and smoky.

• Tips: Grill on the vine or skewer them.

Heavenly Desserts on the Grill

Peach cobbler on the grill?  That’s right, you can bake desserts on the grill, and they will taste FANTASTIC.  Here’s some to try:

• Grilled Peach Cobbler
• Oreo Cookie Skillet
• Campfire Rice Krispie Treats
• Grilled Poundcake with Pineapple
• Pineapple Upside Down Cake
• Grilled Brownies

Tips for Baking on the Grill

If you can bake it in the oven, there’s a pretty good chance you can also bake it on the grill.  Here’s some tips to keep in mind:

1. Use Indirect Heat

   • Set up your grill for indirect cooking by turning on burners or coals on one side only.

   • Place your dessert on the cooler side to avoid burning and promote even baking, just like an oven.

2. Preheat the Grill

   • Let your grill reach the desired baking temperature (usually around 350°F/175°C) before putting desserts on.

   • This ensures even cooking and proper rising for baked goods.

3. Use a Cast Iron or Heavy-Duty Baking Dish

   • Cast iron or heavy-duty pans hold and distribute heat evenly, reducing hot spots and preventing burning.

   • Foil pans can work but be cautious with thinner ones.

4. Wrap in Foil if Needed

   • For delicate or smaller desserts, wrap them tightly in foil to trap moisture and prevent flare-ups.

   • Foil packets work great for fruit crisps, cobblers, or stuffed bananas.

5. Keep the Grill Closed

   • Closing the lid traps heat and creates an oven-like environment.

   • Avoid opening the grill too often to keep the temperature steady.

6. Use a Thermometer

   • Use a grill thermometer or an instant-read thermometer to monitor internal temperature for accuracy.

   • Check baked goods for doneness (like toothpick tests for cakes).

7. Be Mindful of Flare-Ups

   • Watch for fat drips or sugars caramelizing, which can cause flare-ups and burn your dessert.

   • Move the dessert or use a drip pan if needed.

8. Adjust Rack Height

   • Place your dessert on a higher rack if the heat is intense near the coals/burners.

   • This can help slow the cooking and avoid over-browning.

9. Timing May Vary

   • Grilling times can be shorter or longer than an oven depending on grill temperature and wind.

   • Check regularly toward the end but be patient for even baking.

 

Are you ready to take the plunge and throw something sweet on the grill?  Go for it!

 

XOXO,

Gossip Grill