Grilled Cinnamon Apples – Fresh Minnesota Apples

Introduction

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Grilled Cinnamon Apples using fresh Minnesota apples perfectly caramelized on the Arteflame grill. These smoky, sweet apples are coated in a delicious blend of cinnamon and brown sugar, creating a warm, comforting dish that’s ideal as a side, dessert, or topping.

Ingredients

• 4 fresh Minnesota apples (Honeycrisp or Gala recommended)
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire build. The grill will be ready for cooking in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the apples

1. Wash, core, and slice the apples into thick rounds or wedges.
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, melted butter, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt.
3. Coat the apple slices evenly with the mixture.

Step 3: Grill the apples

1. Place the apple slices on the flat top cooktop near the center where the heat is more intense but not directly on the grill grate.
2. Let them sizzle for about 3-4 minutes per side until caramelized and slightly tender.
3. Move them to a slightly cooler section of the cooktop to finish cooking gently for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Serve and enjoy

1. Remove the grilled apples from the Arteflame.
2. Serve warm as a side dish, dessert, or over vanilla ice cream, pancakes, or oatmeal.

Tips

• For extra caramelization, baste the apples with additional butter while grilling.
• Use Minnesota Honeycrisp apples for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Keep apple slices thick to prevent them from becoming too soft on the grill.

Variations

1. Honey Glazed Apples: Drizzle honey over the apples instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetness.
2. Spiced Maple Apples: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup and add a pinch of cloves.
3. Bourbon Caramel Apples: Add a splash of bourbon to the butter mixture for a rich, warm flavor.
4. Nuts & Spice Apples: Sprinkle chopped pecans and a dash of allspice for a crunchy twist.
5. Coconut Sugar Apples: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar for a more caramel-like taste.

Best Pairings

• Vanilla ice cream
• Pancakes or waffles
• Grilled pork chops or ribs
• Warm oatmeal
• Sparkling cider or a glass of bourbon

Conclusion

Grilled Cinnamon Apples are the perfect dish to make on your Arteflame grill. Infused with smoky, caramelized sweetness, they are a versatile treat ideal as a side, dessert, or topping. Enjoy these succulent apples straight from the grill, paired with your favorite dishes.