Grilled Washington Blackberries with Vanilla Cream

Introduction

Grilled blackberries may be one of the most underrated treats you can make on your Arteflame grill, and they're about to be your new favorite dessert. With the naturally sweet and slightly tangy flavor of fresh Washington blackberries combined with a velvety vanilla cream, this grilled dessert delivers an impressive presentation with minimal effort. Using your Arteflame grill, you’ll elevate this simple dish with caramelized blackberry juices and a warm, rich cream—all grilled to perfection without ever using a pan or oven. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh Washington blackberries
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up your Arteflame grill

1. Place three folded paper napkins in the fire bowl.
2. Pour a small amount of vegetable oil over the napkins.
3. Stack quality firewood on top.
4. Light the soaked napkins and allow fire to develop.
5. Wait about 20 minutes for the flat top to come up to temperature.

Step 2: Prep the blackberries

1. In a bowl, gently toss the Washington blackberries with melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

Step 3: Grill the blackberries

1. Place a grill-safe container directly on the flat cooktop, preferably closer to the center for higher heat.
2. Add the buttered blackberries and let them sear until they begin to blister and caramelize (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir occasionally so they sear evenly and do not overcook.

Step 4: Make the vanilla cream

1. In a heat-safe mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar.
2. Whisk the cream mixture on the cooler outer edge of the cooktop until it starts to thicken slightly (4-6 minutes).
3. Be careful not to boil—just warm it enough to thicken.

Step 5: Plate and serve

1. Spoon the warm grilled blackberries onto a small serving plate or into a dessert bowl.
2. Drizzle with vanilla cream.
3. Garnish with fresh mint for added aroma and color.

Tips

• Use the hotter inner zones of the Arteflame griddle to get a quick caramelization on the blackberries without breaking them down.
• Warm the cream on the outer edge where the heat is gentler to avoid curdling.
• Always use butter instead of oil for richer flavor in desserts.
• Keep an eye on blackberries—they cook fast once on the hot griddle!
• This dessert is best enjoyed immediately while both the berries and cream are warm.

Variations

1. Grilled Blackberry-Basil Delight: Add chopped fresh basil to the blackberries before grilling. The herbal notes balance the sweetness for a savory-sweet twist.
2. Honey-Lemon Blackberries: Substitute brown sugar with honey and add a splash of lemon juice to the blackberries before grilling for a tangy-citrus flavor.
3. Spiced Rum Vanilla Cream: Mix a teaspoon of spiced rum into the vanilla cream mixture for a bold, aromatic kick.
4. Chocolate Blackberry Bliss: Drizzle grilled blackberries with dark chocolate sauce instead of cream for a decadent dessert.
5. Blackberry Shortcake Stack: Serve the grilled blackberries and vanilla cream over grilled slices of pound cake for a rich, layered dessert.

Best pairings

• A glass of chilled Moscato or sparkling rosé
• Grilled pork tenderloin as a main course
• Fresh grilled peaches or nectarines on the side
• Toasted brioche or angel food cake
• Vanilla or honey lavender ice cream for extra indulgence

Conclusion

This Grilled Washington Blackberry with Vanilla Cream recipe shows how simple ingredients can create an elegant dessert when cooked over an Arteflame grill. With no pots, pans, or oven in sight, the flat cooktop sears the blackberries to perfection and gently warms the cream—one grill, one dessert, all flavor.