Grilled Strawberries with Honey Balsamic and Whipped Cream
Juicy strawberries get a smoky char on the grill before being tossed with honey and balsamic vinegar for a perfect sweet-tangy balance. A hint of black pepper adds unexpected warmth to complement the fruit. Served over fresh whipped cream made right in a mason jar, this simple dessert transforms ordinary strawberries into something special. Perfect for summer barbecues or when you want to add a grilled element to dessert without much fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 pint strawberries, hulled
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- fresh ground black pepper
- ¾ cups heavy cream, cold
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- 1
Preheat grill to low-medium heat
- 2
Hull strawberries and rinse under cold water
- 3
Place strawberries directly on grill and cook, rotating frequently with tongs until softened with light grill marks
- 4
Remove strawberries to medium bowl and drizzle with balsamic vinegar and honey while warm
- 5
Add black pepper and stir gently, then let rest
- 6
Add heavy cream, powdered sugar and vanilla to mason jar
- 7
Screw on lid and shake vigorously until cream thickens
- 8
Spoon whipped cream into bowls and top with strawberries and juices
Tips
Use tongs to rotate strawberries frequently to prevent burning and ensure even grill marks
Shake the cream vigorously for 3-4 minutes until it thickens to soft peaks
Drizzle the warm strawberries with honey and balsamic while they're still hot for better absorption
Good to Know
Store assembled dessert covered in refrigerator for up to 2 days, though strawberries will release more juices
Grill strawberries up to 4 hours ahead and store covered at room temperature
Serve immediately after assembly for best texture contrast
Common Mistakes
Use low-medium heat to avoid burning strawberries before they soften
Don't over-shake the cream or it will turn to butter
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries work best for grilling as frozen ones will release too much water and won't develop proper grill marks.
What if I don't have a mason jar?
Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to whip the cream, or shake in any container with a tight-fitting lid.
How long will the whipped cream keep?
Fresh whipped cream is best used within 2-3 hours but can be stored covered in refrigerator for up to 24 hours.