Yup, you read that right, desserts on the grill. The first thing that comes to my mind when I think about BBQ’n is burgers and juicy steaks, but there’s a whole other sweet side to it, and I’m going to share some delectable recipes with you.
Most of us are still experiencing some cooler weather, heavier rains, and maybe even snow but that doesn’t mean it’s not barbequing season – just the opposite, let’s fire it up and make some delicious desserts on that grill.
Before We Dig In – Get a Professional BBQ Cleaner
Those grates have grilled countless hot dogs, steaks, and skewers. The memories are good, but this means your grills are probably covered in grease and charred bits of meat. That charred disaster will ruin your dessert.
The grime will give your food a bitter taste and baked goods will pick up the flavors of the more traditional foods that you typically grill. What’s more is that a dirty grill will increase the chance of flare-ups. Who likes burnt cookies? Not me.
BBQ cleaning isn’t enjoyable, but if you do it each time you use the BBQ, it should be somewhat effortless. Here’s a great tutorial for cleaning your grill. Note: It’s wise to have it cleaned by a professional BBQ cleaner at least once a year. The difference between your light cleaning and a professional BBQ cleaner is substantial. Learn more about the entire process, here.
Grandmas Homemade Cookies Fresh off the Grill
Impress your guests at your next party. After dinner, the perfect way to end your meal is to run out to the backyard and fire up the grill. Get the BBQ warmed up and make cookies outside, saving the space inside. This recipe is easy and saves space in the oven. If you have the time, make up your favorite cookie batter recipe – premade is fine as well. Place your cookies on a cookie sheet and set it on the grill. Cookies will take about 20 minutes but check occasionally. Serve warm and enjoy.
‘Take Me Away’ Grilled Pineapple Sundae
In the chillier months, I often think about how nice it would be to sit on the beach, sipping on my favorite adult beverage and laying in the sand with my feet in the water. Fabulous, but then I remember I am at home, layering a sweater to stay comfortable.
One fruit that comes to mind when I think tropical escape is the pineapple, and ice cream. Let’s make a grilled pineapple sundae. Pick up a pineapple, core it and cut it into thick rings, or save yourself some time and buy an already cored pineapple. Fire the grill up, cook pineapples for about a minute each side or until charred. Set each pineapple in a bowl, and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce. For an added tropical feel add some shredded coconut on top. Heaven!
Hot BBQ Fruit Pies
What about a comfort food dessert? Maybe something a little heartier that brings back memories of your childhood. My childhood was full of pies, but none were made on the BBQ – that’s for sure. The best part about making pies on the grill is the slight crisp the crust gets, my favorite. The recipe calls for a cast iron pan to bake the pie in. If you have a family recipe that you use, prepare the dough and filling accordingly. If you’re running short on time, here is a blueberry pie recipe you can follow.
Make sure your pan is well oiled as you don’t want to risk everything sticking and ruining the dessert. Put the crust in the pan, your fruit filling and set the pan on your 375° – 400° BBQ. Cooking will take about 15-20mins, or until crust is golden brown. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream.
Tradition, With a Modern Twist: Fruit Kebabs & Skewers
Peaches, bananas, apricots and even strawberries are other fruits that do well on the grill. Try making a fruit kebab, alternating fruit and pound cake. Grilled sweet kebabs are amazing. Make s’more banana split, by slicing a banana lengthwise, setting chocolate chips and marshmallows in it. Wrap them up in tinfoil and let them bake, so tasty.
Remember to hire a professional BBQ cleaner and, hopefully, you’re able to make some sweet treats on your grill this season, and really utilize your BBQ for all meals!
