When you think of a BBQ, your mind might immediately jump to juicy burgers, smoky ribs, or grilled vegetables. But why stop at savory? A great BBQ deserves a sweet ending, and there’s no better way to wrap up your cookout than with a delicious grilled dessert. Grilling desserts adds a unique twist—the caramelization of sugars, a hint of smokiness, and that irresistible charred touch can turn even simple ingredients into a gourmet treat. From grilled fruit to decadent treats, here are some of the best grilled dessert ideas that are sure to impress your guests.
Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze
Grilled pineapple is a classic dessert that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The natural sweetness of pineapple intensifies on the grill, while the heat caramelizes the sugars, resulting in a smoky-sweet treat. Start by cutting a fresh pineapple into rings or wedges, and brush each piece with a mixture of brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of cinnamon. Place the pineapple directly on the grill over medium heat and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until you see those beautiful grill marks. Serve the grilled pineapple warm, either on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
Grilled Peaches with Honey and Mascarpone
Peaches are another fruit that takes on an amazing flavor when grilled. The heat brings out their natural juices, making them even sweeter and juicier. To prepare, simply halve the peaches and remove the pits. Brush the cut sides with a bit of olive oil or melted butter to prevent sticking. Place the peaches cut-side down on a medium grill and cook for 3-5 minutes, until they’re tender and have visible grill marks. Once done, drizzle the grilled peaches with honey and top with a dollop of mascarpone cheese. The creaminess of the mascarpone pairs beautifully with the warm, juicy peaches, creating a simple yet sophisticated dessert.
Banana Boats with Chocolate and Marshmallows
Banana boats are a nostalgic campfire treat that can easily be adapted to the grill. Start by slicing each banana lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through the peel. Gently pull the banana apart and stuff it with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers. Wrap each banana in aluminum foil and place them on the grill over medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate and marshmallows are melted and gooey. Unwrap the foil, and you have a fun, s’mores-inspired dessert that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Grilled Pound Cake with Berries and Cream
Pound cake may not be the first thing you think of when grilling, but it’s surprisingly delicious with a bit of char. The grill adds a slight crunch and enhances the cake’s buttery flavor. Start by slicing a store-bought or homemade pound cake into thick pieces. Lightly brush each side with melted butter and grill over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear. Serve the grilled pound cake with a medley of fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra burst of flavor, you could drizzle some balsamic glaze over the berries—the acidity balances the sweetness of the cake and berries perfectly.
Grilled Apples with Cinnamon Sugar
Grilled apples make for a comforting dessert that’s reminiscent of apple pie. Cut apples into thick slices or wedges and toss them in a mixture of melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Grill the apple slices over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they’re tender and have caramelized grill marks. The warmth and sweetness of the apples pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt. You could also sprinkle some granola on top for added crunch and texture.
Grilled S’mores Dip
If you love s’mores but don’t want the hassle of roasting marshmallows individually, a grilled s’mores dip is the perfect solution. In a cast-iron skillet, layer chocolate chips and mini marshmallows. Place the skillet on the grill over medium heat and close the lid. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and the chocolate is melted. Serve the gooey dip with graham crackers or fresh fruit for dipping. It’s a simple and fun way to enjoy s’mores flavors with a group.
Grilled Figs with Goat Cheese and Honey
Figs are an underappreciated fruit when it comes to grilling, but they’re absolutely delicious when paired with savory and sweet elements. To make this dish, halve fresh figs and brush them lightly with olive oil. Grill them cut-side down for about 2-3 minutes, until they’re soft and caramelized. Once they’re off the grill, top each fig with a small dollop of goat cheese and drizzle with honey. The creaminess of the goat cheese and the sweetness of the honey are a perfect match for the smoky, tender figs, making this a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dessert.
Grilled Donuts with Chocolate Sauce
If you’re looking for an indulgent and unexpected dessert, try grilling donuts. Glazed donuts work particularly well for this—the glaze caramelizes slightly on the grill, adding a whole new dimension of flavor. Simply place the donuts on the grill over medium heat for about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, or until grill marks form. Serve the warm, grilled donuts with a rich chocolate dipping sauce or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent treat that’s perfect for ending a BBQ on a high note.
Grilled Watermelon with Mint and Lime
Watermelon might seem like an unusual choice for grilling, but it works surprisingly well. Grilling watermelon intensifies its sweetness while adding a hint of smokiness. Cut the watermelon into thick wedges and grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, just until grill marks appear. Remove from the grill and drizzle with fresh lime juice and sprinkle with chopped mint leaves. The result is a refreshing dessert that’s light, juicy, and full of summery flavors—perfect for a hot day.
Tips for Grilling Desserts
- Preheat Your Grill: Just like with savory dishes, it’s important to preheat your grill before adding dessert. Medium heat is usually best for grilling desserts, as it allows the sugars to caramelize without burning.
- Use Direct and Indirect Heat: Depending on the dessert, you may need to use direct or indirect heat. For fruits like pineapple and peaches, direct heat works well to get those nice grill marks. For more delicate items like pound cake or foil-wrapped banana boats, indirect heat helps prevent burning.
- Keep an Eye on Sugary Items: Sugars can burn quickly on the grill, so keep a close eye on your desserts while grilling. It’s best to grill desserts over medium to medium-high heat and turn them frequently to avoid burning.
- Add Flavor with Spices and Sauces: Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can add warmth and complexity to grilled desserts. Don’t forget sauces like caramel, chocolate, or honey for drizzling—they can take your grilled desserts to the next level.
Grilling for the Perfect Finish
Grilled desserts are the perfect way to end a BBQ, adding a sweet note that’s still in keeping with the smoky, charred flavors of the grill. Whether you’re grilling fruit, cake, or making a gooey s’mores dip, the key is to balance sweetness with the smoky depth that only a grill can provide. These desserts are simple enough to prepare but impressive enough to make your BBQ memorable. So next time you fire up the grill, don’t stop at the burgers and ribs—add a little sweetness to your cookout with these delicious grilled desserts.
