These Grilled Apples are tender, smoky, and perfectly caramelized. They make an easy dessert or side full of warm fall flavor and are ready in minutes.
Why you’ll love these grilled apples
Grilling apples concentrates their sweetness and adds a subtle smoky depth. The heat softens the fruit and caramelizes the edges, giving you the irresistible flavor of baked apples with far less effort. A simple honey-butter glaze and warm spices make them feel special, whether served as a quick dessert or a savory-sweet side.
They’re perfect when you’re already using the grill for dinner and pair beautifully with pork, chicken, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Use firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji for the best texture.
Ingredients
- Apples – 4 firm apples such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji
- Honey – 3 tablespoons (maple syrup works as a substitute)
- Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons, melted
- Cinnamon – 1 tablespoon
- Allspice – 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon (to prevent browning)
- Chopped pecans – optional garnish
- Oil – for brushing the grill and apple slices
See the recipe card below for serving size and nutrition details.
How to make grilled apples
Step 1: Wash apples and pat dry. Remove cores and stems, then cut into thick slices or wedges about ½–¾ inch thick.
Step 2: Place slices in a bowl of water with the lemon juice for 5 minutes to reduce browning. Drain and pat dry.
Step 3: Whisk together melted butter, honey, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir in allspice if you like extra warmth.
Step 4: Preheat a gas or charcoal grill (or use a grill pan) to medium heat (about 400°F). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Lightly brush both sides of the apple slices with oil. Place them directly on the grill and brush the tops with the honey-butter glaze.
Step 6: Grill about 4 minutes per side until tender and caramelized with visible grill marks. Brush with more glaze while cooking.
Step 7: Remove from the grill, drizzle with extra honey, sprinkle with a touch of cinnamon, and top with chopped pecans if desired. Serve warm.
Grilled Apples
Ingredients
- 4 apples, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
- Oil for brushing the grill and apples
Instructions
- Wash apples and pat dry. Remove cores and seeds, then slice into ½–¾ inch wedges.
- Soak slices in water with lemon juice for about 5 minutes to prevent browning. Drain and pat dry.
- Whisk melted butter, honey, and cinnamon together; add allspice if using.
- Preheat and oil grill grates to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Brush both sides of the apple slices with oil and place them on the grill. Brush tops with the honey-butter glaze.
- Grill 4 minutes per side until tender and caramelized, brushing with more glaze as they cook.
- Remove from the grill, drizzle extra honey, sprinkle cinnamon, and top with chopped pecans if desired. Serve warm.
Recipe notes
Serve as a dessert with ice cream or as a side for grilled pork or chicken. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–5 days. Reheat briefly before serving.
Nutrition facts
Calories: 99 kcal; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Protein: 0.3 g; Fat: 3 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 16 g.
Recipe tips
- Use firm apples – they hold their shape on the grill.
- Slice evenly – uniform thickness ensures even cooking and consistent caramelization.
- Don’t overcook – cook until tender but not mushy, about 10 minutes total depending on thickness.
- Use foil or a grill pan – place foil or a grill pan on the grates for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Serving recommendations
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and chopped nuts for a decadent dessert. They’re also excellent alongside grilled pork chops or roasted chicken, seasoned with a touch of brown sugar and warm spices.
Frequently asked questions
Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Pink Lady, or Granny Smith hold up best and caramelize nicely.
Yes. Use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop for similar results.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–5 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave before serving.
More easy grilled fruit recipes
Grilled Peaches
Grilled Bananas
Grilled Mango
If you make these Grilled Apples, we’d love a star review.