Brûléed Grapefruit Recipe
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
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
- 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