Grilling pears is a delightful way to bring out their natural sweetness, especially when paired with a luscious brown sugar glaze. I’ve discovered that this simple technique transforms ordinary pears into a sophisticated treat perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a unique dessert, grilled pears add a smoky flavor that complements the rich sweetness of brown sugar. It’s an easy process that requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor, making it a favorite in my kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pears | 4 firm Bosc or Anjou, halved and cored |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup, packed |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons, melted |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
Preparing the Pears
I start by selecting and preparing the pears to ensure they grill perfectly with the brown sugar glaze.
Selecting the Right Pears
Choose firm pears such as Bosc or Anjou. These varieties hold their shape during grilling and provide a sweet, rich flavor. Ensure each pear is ripe but not overly soft to maintain texture.
Cleaning and Slicing
Rinse the pears under cold water to remove any residues. Slice each pear in half lengthwise and remove the core using a melon baller or spoon. Cut the halves into uniform wedges, approximately half an inch thick, to ensure even grilling.
Making the Brown Sugar Glaze
Creating a rich brown sugar glaze is simple and elevates the grilled pears perfectly.
Ingredients for the Glaze
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Preparing the Glaze
I combine the brown sugar and melted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. I stir until the sugar dissolves, then add cinnamon, honey, lemon juice, and olive oil. I simmer the mixture for 2 minutes, mixing continuously until smooth. I remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before brushing it onto the pear wedges.
Grilling the Pears
Grilling brings out the rich flavor of pears, especially when paired with a brown sugar glaze. Here’s how I ensure perfect results every time.
Preheating the Grill
I preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. This temperature allows the pears to caramelize without becoming mushy. I clean the grates and brush them with oil to prevent sticking.
Grilling Techniques
I place the pear wedges skin-side down on the grill. Each side grills for about 3-4 minutes, achieving nice grill marks. I brush the brown sugar glaze onto the pears halfway through cooking, ensuring they absorb the sweetness evenly. Using a spatula, I flip the pears gently to maintain their shape and prevent tearing. Monitoring the heat is crucial to avoid burning the glaze while ensuring the pears are tender.
Serving Suggestions
- Vanilla Ice Cream: I love adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream to highlight the pears’ sweetness.
- Blue Cheese and Walnuts: Combining grilled pears with blue cheese and toasted walnuts makes a savory appetizer.
- Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: I often drizzle balsamic glaze over the pears and serve them alongside a mixed green salad.
- Cheesecake Topping: Using grilled pears as a topping for cheesecake or other desserts adds a delicious touch.
- Cheese Platter: Including grilled pears in a cheese platter creates a balanced sweet and savory spread.
Conclusion
Grilling pears with brown sugar glaze has become one of my favorite ways to elevate a simple fruit. The caramelized sweetness and rich flavors make them a standout addition to any meal.
Whether you’re serving them as a dessert, pairing with cheese, or adding to a salad these grilled pears never fail to impress. I encourage you to give this easy and delicious recipe a try at your next gathering.
