These 3 Summer Desserts are the perfect finale to any outdoor BBQ, blending vibrant flavors and irresistible textures in just over an hour. From creamy, chilled delights to warm, caramelized treats, each dessert is designed to complement the smoky, savory notes of grilled favorites. With a 20-minute prep and 45-minute cook time, you’ll have more moments to enjoy the sunshine and less time in the kitchen.
Think luscious berry tarts with a buttery crust, gooey s’mores-inspired bars, and a refreshing citrus-infused mousse that melts on your tongue. Each bite is a celebration of summer, balancing sweet, tangy, and rich flavors that will leave your guests craving more. These desserts are as effortless as they are impressive, making your BBQ unforgettable.
Ingredients for 3 Summer Desserts (Outdoor BBQ Episode)
- 1 ¾ cups (15oz/427g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons dark unsweetened cocoa powder
- 16 ½ oz (465g) dark chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 1 ½ cup (12oz/337g) unsalted butter
- 2 ¼ cups (18oz/510g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (6oz/168g) packed light brown sugar
- 7 eggs at room temperature
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 6 oranges (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the chocolate and butter: Place the chocolate and butter in a large bowl. Set it over a saucepan of simmering water or microwave, stirring occasionally, until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Add the sugars: Whisk the granulated and brown sugars into the chocolate mixture until fully combined. Ensure the mixture is at room temperature.
- Whisk the eggs and vanilla: In a separate jug, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract.
- Combine eggs and chocolate: Add a small amount of the egg mixture to the chocolate mixture and whisk until combined. Gradually add the remaining eggs, whisking until fully incorporated. Avoid overbeating to prevent cakey brownies.
- Fold in dry ingredients: Sift the flour, salt, and cocoa powder over the chocolate mixture. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold until just a few streaks of flour remain. Set aside.
- Prepare the oranges: Carefully cut out the center of each orange with a knife. Use a spoon to scoop out the pulp, leaving some behind for flavor.
- Fill the oranges: Pour the brownie batter into each orange, filling them about ¾ of the way. Place the orange lids back on and wrap each securely in tin foil.
- Grill the brownies: Place the wrapped oranges directly on a preheated grill at medium heat (350°F/180°C). Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove from the grill, unwrap, and serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect summer treat!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Take your brownies to the next level with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fruity twist, try a spoonful of raspberry coulis or a sprinkle of fresh berries. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar will make these brownies irresistible.
Grill Master Tips: Equipment Guidance
For the best results, use a heavy-duty aluminum foil to wrap the oranges securely. A grill thermometer is handy to ensure the heat stays at a steady 350°F (180°C). If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the orange brownies in a preheated oven at the same temperature for the same amount of time.
Fresh and Fruity: Recipe Variations
Swap out the oranges for grapefruits or lemons for a tangy twist. You can also add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra texture. For a lighter version, try using dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage and reduce the sugar slightly.
Quick and Easy: Time-Saving Tips
To save time, pre-measure all your ingredients before starting. Use a microwave to melt the chocolate and butter quickly, but be sure to stir every 15 seconds to avoid burning. If you’re short on time, you can skip the orange shells and bake the brownies in a greased baking dish instead.
Keep It Fresh: Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, place the brownies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
3 Summer Desserts (Outdoor BBQ Episode)
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 15oz/427g
- 1 ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons dark unsweetened cocoa powder
- 16 ½ oz dark chocolate 465g, coarsely chopped
- 1 ½ cup unsalted butter 12oz/337g
- 2 ¼ cups granulated sugar 18oz/510g
- ¾ cups packed light brown sugar 6oz/168g
- 7 eggs at room temperature
- 3 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 oranges
Instructions
- To make the Brownies: Put the chocolate and butter in a large bowl and set it over a saucepan of simmering water or place in the microwave. Stirring occasionally, until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from the heat and set aside to cool a little.
- Add the sugars. Whisk until completely combined. The mixture should be room temperature.
- Whisk the eggs and vanilla in a jug together.
- Add a little of the eggs to the chocolate mixture and whisk until combined. Add the remaining eggs and whisk until combined. Do not overbeat the batter at this stage or your brownies will be cakey.
- Sift the flour, salt and cocoa over the chocolate mixture. Using a rubber spatula (not a whisk), fold the flour mixture into the chocolate until just a bit of the flour mixture is visible. Set aside.
- To prepare your oranges: Carefully takes a seated knife and take out the center of the orange.
- Once you take a bit out you can go in with a spoon and scoop the rest out. You don’t have to take out all of the pulp.
- Pour the batter into your orange 3/4 of the way. Place it’s lid on and wrap in tin foil.
- Place directly on the grills on medium heat (350oF/180oC) and bake for roughly 35-45 minutes.
- Enjoy straight away with Vanilla ice cream.
