Introduction

Brûléed grapefruit is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy this citrus fruit, transforming it with a caramelized sugar topping that adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. This recipe brings together bright, tangy grapefruit with the satisfying texture of brûléed sugar, perfect for breakfast or a light dessert.

Brûléed Grapefruit Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 grapefruit, sliced in half
2 tablespoons coarse turbinado sugar
Flaky sea salt, to taste
Optional toppings: plain Greek yogurt, granola, fresh mint

Instructions

Step 1: Arrange the oven rack to the top third position, usually the second notch down from the top, and preheat the oven to broil. Line a baking sheet with foil or a silicone baking mat—avoid parchment paper as it can burn.
Step 2: Trim the top and bottom off each grapefruit half so they sit flat. Slice horizontally to expose the segments in a circular pattern. Place the halves face down on paper towels for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Use a paring knife to loosen each segment and pat dry any released moisture.
Step 3: Place the grapefruit halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle each half with ½ tablespoon of coarse sugar. Broil for 5 to 8 minutes until the sugar caramelizes and turns golden brown.
Step 4: Remove from the oven, sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt, and serve immediately. Add optional toppings like Greek yogurt, granola, or fresh mint if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use pink or ruby red grapefruit for a sweeter flavor and vibrant color.
If you don’t have turbinado sugar, regular granulated sugar works, but turbinado provides a better crunch and deeper caramel flavor.
Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey before broiling for a unique twist.

Storage

Brûléed grapefruit is best enjoyed fresh for the crisp sugar topping. If you have leftovers, cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 day. To reheat, briefly broil again in the oven to refresh the caramelized sugar, but avoid overcooking to maintain juiciness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a kitchen torch instead of the oven broiler?

Yes, a kitchen torch works well to caramelize the sugar quickly and gives you more control over the brûlée process. Just sprinkle the sugar evenly and carefully torch until golden brown.

What if I don’t have flaky sea salt?

If you don’t have flaky sea salt, a small pinch of regular coarse salt will work. The salt enhances the flavors by balancing the sweetness and brightness of the grapefruit.

Brûléed Grapefruit Recipe

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4.9 from 103 reviews

This recipe for Brûléed Grapefruit transforms the tangy citrus fruit into a delightful dessert or breakfast treat by caramelizing the natural sugars with turbinado sugar under the broiler. The brûlée topping adds a crunchy, sweet crust that pairs beautifully with the juicy, slightly bitter grapefruit segments. Optional toppings like Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh mint add texture and complementary flavors for a balanced dish.

Author: Isabella
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes
Yield: 4 servings (2 grapefruit halves per serving) 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Broiling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

2 grapefruit, sliced in half

Toppings

2 tablespoons coarse turbinado sugar
flaky sea salt, to taste
optional: plain Greek yogurt
optional: granola
optional: fresh mint leaves

Instructions

Preheat and prepare: Arrange the oven rack to the top third position, generally the second notch down from the top. Preheat the oven to the broil setting. Line a baking sheet with foil or a silicone baking mat (avoid parchment paper as it will burn under broiling heat).
Prepare the grapefruit: Slice off the top and bottom of each grapefruit so they can rest flat on a surface. Cut each grapefruit horizontally (across the middle) to expose the circular segments. Place the halves face down on several paper towels for 10 minutes to absorb excess moisture. Using a paring knife, carefully carve around and loosen each segment. Pat away any moisture released.
Caramelize the sugar: Place the grapefruit halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle ½ tablespoon of coarse turbinado sugar evenly on each half. Broil in the preheated oven for 5-8 minutes or until the sugar has melted and caramelized into a golden-brown crust.
Finish and serve: Remove the grapefruit from the oven. Sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt on top to balance the sweetness. Serve immediately, optionally adding a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of granola, and fresh mint for added texture and flavor.

Notes

Do not use parchment paper for broiling as it will catch fire; foil or silicone mats are safer options.
Allowing the grapefruit to rest face down on paper towels helps reduce excess moisture to ensure proper caramelization.
Use a paring knife carefully to separate the segments without damaging them, which enhances presentation and texture.
Broil times may vary depending on your oven; watch closely to avoid burning the sugar.
Optional toppings such as Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh mint provide creaminess, crunch, and freshness if desired.

Keywords: brûléed grapefruit, caramelized grapefruit, broiled grapefruit, fruit dessert, healthy dessert, citrus brûlée, broiled fruit