Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey – A Sweet & Savory Delight
There’s something magical about the way simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey is one of those dishes — a beautiful blend of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors that feels equally at home as a cozy autumn appetizer or an elegant party starter.
This recipe is proof that less can be more. Crisp apple slices are gently grilled until tender and caramelized, then wrapped in delicate ribbons of prosciutto and drizzled with golden honey. A sprinkle of fresh thyme or a few flakes of sea salt ties it all together with a touch of sophistication. Each bite delivers a perfect balance — juicy fruit, salty cured meat, and a whisper of floral sweetness.
If you’ve ever had melon with prosciutto, think of this as its cozy fall cousin — warm, aromatic, and irresistibly moreish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick treat to enjoy with a glass of wine, this dish will impress without demanding hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Fuji)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 slices prosciutto
- 2 tablespoons honey (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Sea salt flakes (for garnish)
- Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the apples: Wash, core, and slice the apples into ½-inch thick wedges. You can leave the skin on for color and texture.
- Preheat the grill: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Lightly brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the apples: Place the apple slices on the hot grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the apples soften slightly but still hold their shape.
- Wrap with prosciutto: Remove apples from the grill and let them cool for about a minute. Then, wrap each slice with a thin piece of prosciutto. The warmth of the apples will slightly soften and warm the prosciutto, enhancing its flavor.
- Drizzle with honey: Arrange the wrapped apple slices on a platter. Drizzle generously with honey and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
- Finish and serve: Add a pinch of flaky sea salt and a crack of black pepper for contrast. Serve warm or at room temperature.
The Story Behind the Dish
This recipe came to life on a crisp fall evening when apples were in season, and the grill was still warm from a weekend cookout. The idea was to find something that bridged the seasons — the freshness of fruit with the warmth of smoky, savory notes. Prosciutto, with its delicate saltiness, wraps the sweetness of the grilled apples like a perfect ribbon. A drizzle of honey lifts the entire dish into something special, creating that mouthwatering combination of flavors that dance between rustic and refined.
It’s the kind of dish that looks impressive but takes just minutes to make — proof that beauty in food often lies in simplicity.
Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Core and slice apples into ½-inch wedges; grill 2–3 minutes per side until tender and lightly charred.
- Wrap each warm apple slice with a thin piece of prosciutto.
- Arrange on a serving platter, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with thyme leaves and sea salt.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Tricks:
- Choose the right apples: Look for firm, crisp varieties that won’t fall apart on the grill. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are great choices.
- Mind the grill time: Apples grill quickly. You want them warm and marked, not mushy.
- Add cheese: For an indulgent twist, add a small cube of brie, goat cheese, or blue cheese inside each prosciutto wrap before serving.
- Infuse your honey: Warm your honey with a sprig of rosemary or thyme for an aromatic drizzle.
- Make it party-friendly: Serve these bites on toothpicks or small skewers for easy sharing.
Variations:
- Apple & Goat Cheese Crostini: Layer grilled apple slices and prosciutto on toasted baguette rounds with a smear of goat cheese.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle with chopped toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Pear Version: Substitute apples with ripe pears for a delicate variation.
- Balsamic Finish: Drizzle with aged balsamic glaze instead of honey for a tangy touch.
Serving Ideas:
- Serve as an elegant appetizer with a chilled glass of white wine or prosecco.
- Pair with charcuterie boards — the grilled apples balance rich cheeses and cured meats.
- Enjoy as a light dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of honey.
- Create a fall brunch platter with these alongside cheeses, nuts, and figs.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips:
Grilled apples are best served fresh, but you can prepare them up to 2 hours in advance and serve at room temperature. If you need to store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before serving to soften the prosciutto slightly.
FAQ:
Can I use turkey bacon instead of prosciutto?
Yes, but cook it fully before wrapping the apples. Prosciutto is cured and doesn’t require cooking.
What type of honey works best?
Light floral honey, such as clover or wildflower, complements the apples beautifully.
Can I bake instead of grill?
Absolutely! Roast the apples in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, then wrap and drizzle.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free and easy to make dairy-free as well.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick and elegant (ready in 15 minutes)
- Sweet, salty, and smoky in one bite
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor
- Perfect for holidays, parties, or a cozy night in
This simple yet elegant dish captures the best of seasonal flavors — juicy fruit, savory meat, and golden honey. It’s warm, inviting, and effortlessly impressive. One bite, and you’ll understand why Grilled Apples with Prosciutto and Honey has become a favorite on many fall menus.
