Grilled North Carolina Mountain Apples: A Smoky Autumn Dessert

Introduction

There is nothing quite like the crisp, invigorating air of the North Carolina mountains in autumn, a season defined by vibrant foliage and the abundance of fresh, juicy apples. This recipe for Grilled North Carolina Mountain Apples captures that quintessential fall nostalgia, transforming a simple fruit basket staple into a decadent, smoky dessert. By utilizing the unique heat distribution of the Arteflame grill, we move beyond simple baking; we are searing the natural sugars to create a caramelized crust that rivals any gourmet patisserie. The high heat of the center cooktop locks in the juices, while the outer ring gently softens the flesh, resulting in a texture that is both tender and satisfyingly firm. Whether you have just returned from apple picking in an orchard or simply want to elevate your backyard barbecue, this dish brings a warm, rustic elegance to the table. It is sweet, slightly savory from the smoke, and undeniably comforting.

Ingredients

To recreate this taste of the mountains, you need fresh, firm apples and a few pantry staples to enhance their natural sweetness.

The Essentials

• 4 to 6 large North Carolina Apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady work best for grilling)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 pinch of sea salt (to balance the sweetness)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
• Vegetable oil or butter (for greasing the grill surface)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

1. Wash and dry the apples thoroughly to ensure the butter sticks to the skin and flesh.
2. Core the apples, but do not peel them; the skin helps hold the apple rings together during the grilling process.
3. Slice the apples horizontally into thick rings, approximately 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch thick. If they are too thin, they may fall apart on the heat.

Step 2: Create the Seasoning Mix

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and the pinch of sea salt. Stir until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sugar.
2. Pour the melted butter into a separate shallow dish.

Step 3: Season the Apple Rings

1. Dip each apple ring into the melted butter, ensuring both sides are lightly coated. Alternatively, you can use a pastry brush to apply the butter.
2. Dredge the buttered apple rings into the sugar and spice mixture. Press gently so the spices adhere to the surface of the fruit.

Step 4: Grill the Apples

1. Fire up your Arteflame grill. Aim for a medium heat zone on the flat cooktop (avoid the direct center flame to prevent the sugar from burning instantly).
2. Lightly oil the cooktop surface. Place the apple rings on the hot surface.
3. Grill for 3 to 5 minutes per side. You are looking for distinct grill marks and a bubbly, caramelized coating. The apples should be tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the apples from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
2. While still hot, sprinkle with the chopped pecans or walnuts if desired.
3. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor profile.

Tips

Mastering grilled fruit requires a bit of attention to heat management. Because this recipe relies heavily on sugar, it is crucial to watch your grill temperature. Sugar burns at 350°F, so keep your apples on the medium-heat zones of your Arteflame cooktop rather than directly next to the open fire. If you notice the sugar darkening too quickly, slide the apples toward the cooler outer edge of the grill to finish cooking through without charring. Furthermore, apple selection is paramount. Avoid softer varieties like Red Delicious, as they tend to turn into applesauce when exposed to high heat. Stick to firm, crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith, which hold their structural integrity well. Finally, if you want an extra layer of flavor, baste the apples with a little extra butter halfway through the grilling process to keep them moist and glossy.

Variations

While the classic cinnamon-sugar combination is a crowd-pleaser, these grilled apples are incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the flavor profile to suit your mood or the rest of your meal. For a more sophisticated dessert, try incorporating alcohol or shifting towards savory notes.

• The Boozy Glaze: Whisk a shot of bourbon or dark rum into your melted butter before brushing the apples for a deep, oaky flavor.
• Savory Appetizer: Skip the cinnamon and sugar. Grill the apples with butter and fresh thyme, then drizzle with balsamic glaze.
• Maple Infusion: Substitute the brown sugar with pure maple syrup and a dash of ginger powder for a different kind of sweetness.
• Cheesy Delight: Immediately after flipping the apples, place a slice of Brie cheese on top and let it melt slightly before serving.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon sugar mix for a sweet and spicy contrast.

Best pairings

These Grilled North Carolina Mountain Apples are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments turns them into a show-stopping dish. The contrast of hot, smoked fruit with cold or savory elements creates a complex mouthfeel that delights the palate. Here are some of the best ways to serve them.

• Classic à la Mode: Serve warm apple rings topped with a generous scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream. The melting cream mixes with the caramelized sugar to create a sauce.
• Southern Style: In true Southern fashion, pair the sweet apples with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese. The salty sharpness cuts through the sugar perfectly.
• Breakfast Upgrade: Chop the leftovers and serve them over oatmeal, yogurt, or pancakes the next morning.
• Savory Side: Serve these apples alongside grilled pork chops or a roasted loin. The sweetness of the apple complements the savory richness of the pork.

Conclusion

Grilled North Carolina Mountain Apples are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration of seasonal produce and the joy of outdoor cooking. By bringing these apples to the Arteflame, you unlock a depth of flavor that oven baking simply cannot achieve. The combination of the smoky char, the caramelized spices, and the tart freshness of the apple creates a harmony that resonates with the comfort of fall. Whether you serve them as a sweet finish to a family dinner or as a unique side dish at your next barbecue, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal tradition. So, grab a basket of fresh apples, light up the grill, and enjoy the simple, rustic pleasure of this mountain-inspired treat.