Grilled Virginia Apple Pie Packets

Introduction

This Grilled Virginia Apple Pie Packet recipe is a sweet, smoky twist on traditional apple pie – made entirely on your Arteflame grill. With the magic of the flat top cooktop and the intense caramelizing power of the heat zones, you’ll be amazed at just how delicious and gooey these foil-wrapped apple delights can become. No oven needed, no mess afterward – just you, the grill, and some Fall-inspired perfection.

Ingredients

• 4 large Virginia apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers or granola (optional)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil
• Non-stick spray or 1 tbsp melted butter for foil

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Place 3 paper napkins in the fire bowl of your Arteflame grill.
2. Pour a little vegetable oil onto each napkin.
3. Stack hardwood firewood over the soaked napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the wood to catch.
5. Wait about 20 minutes until the cooktop is hot and the center grill grate reaches searing temps.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling

1. In a large bowl, toss the sliced Virginia apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
2. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow the apples to release some juices.

Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packets

1. Cut 4 large squares of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
2. Lightly coat the inside of each foil square with non-stick spray or a brush of melted butter.
3. Spoon equal portions of the apple mixture onto each foil square.
4. Top each with 1 tbsp of butter and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or granola if using.
5. Fold the foil over the apples and crimp the edges tightly to seal into packets.

Step 4: Grill the Apple Pie Packets

1. Place the foil packets on the Arteflame flat top grill cooktop near the center where it's hot but not searing.
2. Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Listen for a gentle sizzle – the mixture inside will be bubbling and caramelizing beautifully.

Step 5: Serving

1. Carefully open the foil packets (steam will escape!) and scoop the warm mixture into bowls.
2. Serve as-is or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Enjoy the beautiful caramelized edges and warm spiced apples.

Tips

• Use a mix of tart and sweet Virginia apples for depth of flavor.
• Prep everything ahead of time and assemble packets at the grill – perfect for outdoor events.
• You can pre-warm the packets on the outer edge of the cooktop before moving them closer to the hot center area for caramelization.
• Butter keeps the filling rich and helps caramelize better than oil.
• For a crispy topping, sprinkle packets with crushed nuts before sealing.

Variations

1. Mountain Berry Delight: Add in 1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries) for a tart-sweet twist.
2. Pear & Apple Spice: Replace half of the apples with sliced Bosc pears and add a pinch of clove for an autumnal warmth.
3. Bourbon Blend: Add 1 tbsp of Virginia bourbon to the filling for a bold, rich flavor.
4. Maple Walnut: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup and add a handful of crushed walnuts for crunch.
5. Salted Caramel Pecan: Drizzle salted caramel sauce and add chopped pecans before sealing the packets for indulgence.

Best pairings

• Serve with grilled pork chops or rotisserie chicken glazed with cider sauce.
• Pair with a glass of chilled Virginia hard cider or a semi-sweet Riesling.
• Finish the meal with piping hot apple pie packets and a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream – all made around the grill fire.

Conclusion

These Grilled Virginia Apple Pie Packets are a standout dish that embrace the richness of fall and the smoky charm of wood-fired grilling. Whether entertaining or enjoying an intimate outdoor dinner, these packets are a fuss-free, flavor-packed way to satisfy your sweet tooth – all done on your Arteflame.