Step outside the ordinary and into a world where savory meets sweet with this delightful twist on snacking. My recipe for Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey brings together the crispness of Honeycrisp apples and the rich flavor of prosciutto, all kissed by the warmth of the grill. Perfect for any fall gathering, this easy appetizer combines fresh seasonal fruit with creamy goat cheese and the crunch of pistachios, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a quick preparation that lets you indulge without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether served at a cozy get-together or as a unique side dish, these grilled apples are sure to impress. Curious how to elevate your next snack time? Let’s dive in!

Why are Grilled Apples a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This recipe is refreshingly easy, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned chefs who want to elevate their snacking game without the fuss.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet Honeycrisp apples and savory prosciutto, topped with creamy goat cheese and crunchy pistachios, creates a delightful medley of tastes that everyone will rave about, just like with my Sourdough Pesto Grilled Cheese.

Versatile Dish: Whether served as a unique appetizer at gatherings or paired with grilled meats as a side, these grilled apples shine in any role.

Seasonal Stars: Take advantage of fresh fall fruit, making every bite feel like a celebration of the season.

Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen—this dish is a guaranteed hit!

Quick Prep: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip these up on a whim, making them a fantastic choice for last-minute get-togethers.

Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Ingredients

• Discover the essential flavors that make this dish a hit!

For the Grilling

Canola Oil – Prevents sticking on grill grates; any neutral oil works as a great substitute.
Honeycrisp Apple – The star ingredient providing a delightful natural sweetness; feel free to swap with Fuji apples.
Olive Oil – Adds a delicious flavor and aids in grilling; avocado oil is a suitable alternative.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish; sea salt can be used if desired.
Ground Black Pepper – Adds a subtle kick; white pepper can also be used for a milder taste.

For the Topping

Prosciutto – Contributes salty, savory notes that complement the sweetness of the apples; consider thinly sliced turkey or bacon as a substitute for variation.
Log Goat Cheese – A creamy, tangy addition; cream cheese or feta can work nicely if you’re looking for an alternative.
Chopped Salted Pistachios – Introduces delightful crunch and nuttiness; almonds or walnuts could serve as substitutes.
Chopped Fresh Thyme – Offers a fresh herbal hint; dried thyme can stand in if fresh isn’t available.
Pure Honey – A finishing touch of sweetness that ties everything together; maple syrup is an excellent alternative for a different flavor experience.

Embrace the season with these Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey. It’s a dish that captivates both the eye and the palate!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey

Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, brush the grill grates generously with canola oil to prevent the apples from sticking. This ensures that the apples achieve those beautiful grill marks without falling apart.

Step 2: Slice the Apples
Take your Honeycrisp apples and slice them into 24 thin, even slices, about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for uniformity to ensure they grill evenly. The apple slices should be firm yet tender when finished.

Step 3: Season the Apples
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the apple slices with olive oil, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Ensure each slice is evenly coated for a balanced flavor, making those grilled apples full of taste.

Step 4: Grill the Apples
Carefully place the seasoned apple slices directly onto the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until you notice nice grill marks and the apples have softened slightly but still hold their shape.

Step 5: Arrange on a Platter
Once grilled to perfection, remove the apple slices from the grill and arrange them artfully on a serving platter. This is your time to shine; let the warm apples invite your guests in with their caramelized appearance.

Step 6: Add the Toppings
Now, top your grilled apples with strips of prosciutto, crumbled goat cheese, chopped salted pistachios, and freshly chopped thyme. Each topping adds a unique texture and flavor, creating a delightful combination for your Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey.

Step 7: Drizzle with Honey
Before serving, finish your dish by drizzling pure honey generously over the top of the assembled grilled apples. This adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Expert Tips for Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey

Perfect Timing: Grill the apple slices just until they soften, about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to mushy apples that lose their delightful crunch.
Heat It Up: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat. This will help achieve those gorgeous grill marks and prevent sticking, creating beautifully charred apples.
Flavor Balance: For a more complex flavor profile, try mixing different cheeses or nuts. You could even experiment by using blue cheese or walnuts with your Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey.
Cut Uniformly: Slice the apples evenly, ideally into 1/4 inch thick slices. This ensures they grill uniformly, giving you that perfect texture across the board.
Garnish Wisely: After topping with prosciutto and cheese, don’t forget about the honey drizzle! It ties all flavors together, enhancing the delicious contrast of savory and sweet.

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey

Fridge: Store leftover grilled apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on a grill or stovetop for the best texture.

Freezer: While not recommended for freezing due to texture changes, if you must, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Use within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating: For optimal flavor, reheat grilled apples in a warm skillet rather than microwave, allowing them to regain some of their grilled texture before serving again.

Airtight Storage: Ensure you seal your leftovers properly to avoid moisture loss and keep them fresh, especially for your Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey!

What to Serve with Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey

Elevate your snacking experience by pairing these grilled delights with complementary sides and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness balances the tangy goat cheese, providing a comforting texture that satisfies every craving.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy, caramelized notes from roasted Brussels sprouts nicely contrast with the sweetness of the apples and honey. This duo creates a harmonious bite.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with zesty vinaigrette adds a crisp, vibrant crunch, perfectly brightening the richness of the grilled apples.
Grilled Chicken Breast: The subtle smokiness of grilled chicken pairs well with the sweet-savory flavors of the apples, making for a deliciously balanced plate.
Balsamic Glaze: For an unexpected twist, drizzling a tangy balsamic glaze over the apples enhances their sweetness while adding depth. This twist is sure to surprise your guests!
Warm Honey Cake: Serve these apples with a slice of warm honey cake, and you’ll enjoy a delightful interplay of textures and flavors, satisfying both sweet and savory cravings.
Chardonnay: A crisp, chilled Chardonnay serves as an elegant drink pairing, complementing the fruity essence of the dish while cutting through its richness.
Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spiced mixed nuts offers an additional crunch and flavor layer that complements the pistachios and rounds out the snack platter beautifully.

Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds!

Cheese Swap: Try blue cheese or creamy brie instead of goat cheese for a rich twist. Both varieties bring a robust flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.
Alternate Fruits: Replace Honeycrisp apples with juicy peaches or tender pears for a seasonal take. Each fruit brings its own distinctive sweetness and texture, making the dish uniquely yours.
Drizzle Choices: Instead of honey, experiment with a balsamic reduction for a tangy kick. This adds a wonderful depth and balances the dish’s flavors perfectly.
Heat It Up: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a spicy finish. This unexpected burst of heat can elevate the flavor profile, giving your guests something to talk about.
Herb Infusion: Swap fresh thyme for fresh rosemary for a piney aroma. The robust flavors of rosemary will complement the savory notes of the prosciutto beautifully.
Nut Alternatives: Switch chopped pistachios with almonds or walnuts for a different crunch. Each nut brings a unique flavor and texture that can wonderfully complement the other ingredients.
Make It Vegan: Use plant-based cheese and substitute prosciutto with marinated tofu or eggplant for a delicious vegan alternative. Even without meat, this version can be just as satisfying!
Sweeten Differently: Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the honey before drizzling it over your dish. This fragrant addition is perfect for fall flavors, enhancing the sweetness of your grilled apples.

Your journey with grilled apples can be as creative as it is delicious! For similar flavor blends, consider trying my Hot Honey Chicken or Stuffed Baked Apples. Enjoy the process and let your palate guide you!

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can slice the Honeycrisp apples and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the prepped apples for 2-3 minutes on each side until they soften slightly. Add the toppings of prosciutto, goat cheese, pistachios, and honey drizzle just before serving to ensure they’re fresh and delightful. This way, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer with minimal last-minute effort!

Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my Honeycrisp apples are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for apples that are firm and free of dark spots. A ripe Honeycrisp apple should have a vibrant color and feel heavy for its size, indicating juiciness. If they’ve started to soften or have noticeable bruising, it’s best to select fresher ones.

What’s the best way to store leftover grilled apples?
Very! Place any leftover grilled apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator and they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. Make sure to let them cool to room temperature before sealing, as this helps prevent excess moisture buildup that can lead to soggy apples.

Can I freeze grilled apples?
Yes, but with a few caveats! To freeze your grilled apples, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This method works best for up to 1 month. However, note that once thawed, the texture may differ, so they’ll be best suited for warming in dishes rather than serving cold.

What can I do if my apples turn mushy while grilling?
No worries! This can happen if they’re grilled too long. If it occurs, try reducing your grill time to around 2 minutes per side. Keep a close watch, as even a few seconds overcooked can change their delightful texture. If they are already mushy, consider snacking on them as a warm apple sauce or blending them into a smoothie!

Are there any allergy concerns with this recipe?
Definitely worth mentioning! Prosciutto contains pork, which may not be suitable for everyone. Also, if you have nut allergies, be cautious with the addition of pistachios. You can easily swap them out for toasted seeds or omit them entirely. Always double-check the labels on your cheese and other ingredients for potential allergens, especially if serving guests.

What is the best way to reheat grilled apples?
Great question! For the best texture, reheat grilled apples in a warm skillet over low heat rather than in a microwave. Heat them gently until warmed through; this helps maintain their grilled taste and softens them just right without making them mushy again. Enjoy your Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey!