
Turning crisp apples into something smoky and rich is one of my favorite kitchen tricks when I need a sophisticated snack in minutes. The pairing of savory prosciutto and a glossy drizzle of honey with grilled apples transforms simple ingredients into a dish friends always talk about long after the last bite.
The first time I made this was for a fall gathering with friends. I barely set down the platter before everyone started asking for the recipe and now I bring it to every party.
Ingredients
- Medium apples: Honeycrisp Fuji or Pink Lady add juiciness and tart flavor. Look for apples that feel heavy for their size and have unblemished skins for best grilling results
- Prosciutto: thinly sliced for a melt in your mouth salty bite Choose slices with visible marbling for tenderness
- Honey: raw or hot honey for that touch of sweetness and floral aroma. Local honey can bring extra nuance
- Olive oil or melted butter: the choice is yours for brushing apples before grilling Either creates a beautiful grill mark and prevents sticking
- Goat cheese or brie: if you want a creamy tangy element. Pick high quality cheese for extra flavor
- Fresh rosemary or thyme and chopped nuts: like walnuts or pecans for bright herby and crunchy finishes
- Balsamic glaze: for that final drizzle of tang if desired. Use a thick reduction for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Grill:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium high and that grates are both clean and lightly oiled so nothing sticks
- Slice the Apples:
- Cut apples into even wedges or rounds a quarter to a half inch thick. Remove the cores but leave the peel on because it gives good structure for grilling
- Brush the Apples:
- Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil or melted butter paying special attention to coat every surface so they caramelize evenly
- Grill the Apples:
- Place slices directly onto the hot grates and cook two to three minutes per side until deep grill marks appear and the fruit turns just tender but not soft
- Add Prosciutto:
- Remove apples to a platter and wrap or nestle thin slices of prosciutto on top. For a crispier texture grill prosciutto separately for just a minute or two
- Finish with Honey and Garnishes:
- Just before serving drizzle the whole dish with honey and add optional toppings like cheese chopped nuts fresh herbs or balsamic glaze for extra layers of flavor

My favorite part of this dish is the way honey catches in each warm apple wedge adding a deep floral sweetness to that salty prosciutto. My kids love sneaking extra honey and sometimes I add extra nuts just for crunch. One Thanksgiving this turned into a new tradition at our family table.
Storage Tips
This dish tastes best fresh but you can grill apples and store them in the fridge for one day. Keep apples and prosciutto separate to maintain the right texture. Bring everything to room temperature and assemble just before serving so nothing gets soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try pears or even peaches in place of apples for a different spin. If you are out of prosciutto use thinly sliced smoked turkey or omit the meat and add more cheese for a vegetarian option. Maple syrup makes a sweet swap for honey and any creamy cheese from mascarpone to blue cheese works well here.

Serving Suggestions
Plate this as a striking starter before a dinner party or tuck a few pieces on your next cheeseboard. It goes beautifully with sparkling wine simple salads or alongside roasted meats for a light holiday side. Sometimes I serve these skewered for easy picking at large gatherings.
Cultural or Historical Context
The combination of fruit and salty cured meat has roots in Italian and Mediterranean recipes where sweet and savory are often balanced. Apples and honey also bring a bit of autumn flair or a festive feeling since they feature in so many celebratory meals.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → What types of apples work best for grilling?
Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady hold their shape and sweetness when grilled.
- → Can the prosciutto be crisped before serving?
Yes, briefly grill the prosciutto for 1–2 minutes if you prefer a crispy texture.
- → What cheeses pair well with this dish?
Soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie complement the sweet and savory elements perfectly.
- → How can I add extra flavor?
Garnish with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme and sprinkle crushed nuts for added crunch.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarian guests?
Simply omit the prosciutto for a delicious vegetarian version featuring grilled apples and honey.
- → What are serving suggestions?
Serve as an appetizer, on a charcuterie board, or as a unique side for holiday gatherings.