Grilled Apples Turkey Honey

Grilled Apples with Turkey and Honey bring together sweet, savory, and smoky notes in a simple appetizer that never fails to impress. The juicy grilled apple slices provide a tender, caramelized base wrapped in delicate smoked turkey, all elevated by a glossy drizzle of honey. This dish is an elegant porkfree option perfect for any gathering or a light snack.

I first made this recipe on a warm summer evening when friends came over unexpectedly. The easy prep and crowd-pleasing taste made it an instant hit that I've returned to time and again.

Ingredients

• Apples: Two medium apples such as Honeycrisp Fuji or Gala these are firm and sweet for grilling without falling apart
• Turkey slices: Eight to ten thin slices of smoked or roasted delistyle turkey thin slices wrap easily and add a smoky savory layer
• Honey: Two tablespoons honey adds natural sweetness and a beautiful glaze when warmed
• Oil or butter: One tablespoon olive oil or melted butter coats the apple slices to help them grill evenly and develop color
• Ground cinnamon: Half a teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) adds warmth and spice without overwhelming
• Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional) these herbs provide a fresh aroma and lovely presentation
• Toothpicks or skewers: Toothpicks or small skewers essential for holding the wraps securely

Instructions

Prep the Apples:

Wash each apple thoroughly then core and cut into eight thin wedges about one quarter inch thick. Keep the skin on to add texture and vibrant color to the final dish.

Coat with Oil or Butter:

In a small bowl mix the olive oil or melted butter with the ground cinnamon if using. Lightly brush both sides of each apple wedge with this mixture. This step helps with caramelization and infuses gentle spice as the apples grill.

Grill the Apples:

Preheat your grill or a grill pan to medium high heat. Place the apple slices on the hot grill and cook for about two to three minutes on each side. Watch carefully so they become tender with pretty grill marks but do not get too soft or mushy. Remove them and let cool for a few minutes.

Wrap with Turkey:

Take each grilled apple slice and wrap it carefully with half or a whole slice of thin smoked turkey. Secure the wrap with a toothpick or small skewer to hold everything together and make for easy serving.

Drizzle with Honey:

Slightly warm the honey in a microwave or small saucepan just until it becomes fluid and glossy. Drizzle the warm honey evenly over each turkey wrapped apple slice, adding just the right touch of sweetness and shine.

Garnish and Serve:

Add a small sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme on top of each piece for extra aroma and visual appeal. Serve these at room temperature or warm depending on your preference.

My favorite ingredient here is definitely the smoked turkey because it adds a deep savory layer that perfectly contrasts the sweet fruit. I often recall making this dish for holiday parties where guests are surprised by how such simple ingredients combine into something special.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover grilled apples and turkey wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep the best texture, do not drizzle with honey until just before serving again. You can serve chilled or gently warmed in an oven or microwave.

Ingredient Substitutions

If smoked turkey is not available, try using roasted chicken breast slices for a milder flavor. Granny Smith apples can be used instead if you prefer a tart contrast but may require slightly less grilling time to avoid toughness. Maple syrup makes a nice alternative drizzle if you want a slightly richer sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these grilled apple and turkey bites as part of a light appetizer platter alongside nuts, cheeses, and crusty bread. They also pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or dry cider for a refreshing snack or party starter.

These grilled apple and turkey bites are an elegant, easy appetizer that balances sweet and savory. Serve them fresh for the best texture.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What type of apples work best for grilling?

Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala hold their shape well when grilled and offer a pleasant balance of sweetness and tartness.

→ How should the turkey be prepared for wrapping?

Use thin slices of smoked or roasted deli-style turkey to easily wrap around the apple slices without overpowering their flavor.

→ Can I add spices to the apples before grilling?

Yes, lightly brushing the apple slices with olive oil or butter mixed with ground cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic touch enhancing the grilled flavor.

→ What is the best way to serve these grilled apples and turkey?

Serve them warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh rosemary or thyme to complement the sweet and savory flavors.

→ How can I ensure the apples don’t become mushy on the grill?

Grill the apples just 2–3 minutes per side until tender but still firm, avoiding overcooking to maintain texture.

→ Is it better to warm the honey before drizzling?

Warming the honey slightly before drizzling helps it flow smoothly and gives a glossy finish to the wrapped apples.