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Baked Grapefruit

Featured in Morning meals for weekdays and weekends.

This Baked Grapefruit recipe transforms ordinary citrus into a warm, caramelized breakfast treat. The simple preparation involves cutting grapefruits in half, scoring the segments, and topping them with brown sugar and cinnamon. You can choose between two cooking methods: baking for an overall softer texture, or broiling for a caramelized top with firmer fruit beneath. A finishing touch of flaky sea salt enhances the sweetness and adds a subtle crunch. This versatile dish can be served warm or cold, making it perfect for both casual breakfasts and elegant brunches. The brown sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup for different flavor variations.
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Updated on Sat, 18 Jan 2025 11:56:44 GMT
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Caramelized baked grapefruit with a hint of brown sugar and cinnamon, a sweet and tangy breakfast or snack pin it
Caramelized baked grapefruit with a hint of brown sugar and cinnamon, a sweet and tangy breakfast or snack | myhomemaderecipe.com

A warm, caramelized grapefruit transforms an ordinary citrus fruit into a luxurious breakfast treat. This simple preparation method brings out the natural sweetness of grapefruit while adding layers of flavor through caramelized sugar and warming spices. When the heat hits the fruit, something magical happens - the sugars bubble and brown, the flesh becomes tender, and the entire kitchen fills with a citrusy-sweet aroma.

After discovering this method at a boutique hotel brunch, I've made it countless times for my family. My daughter, who usually pushes away anything tart, now requests this "candy grapefruit" for weekend breakfasts.

Perfect Ingredient Selection

  • Grapefruit: Choose ruby red or pink varieties - they're naturally sweeter than white grapefruit
  • Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar adds caramel notes and creates a beautiful crust
  • Cinnamon: Fresh ground cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in flavor
  • Sea Salt: A few flakes of good quality sea salt enhance both sweetness and complexity
  • Optional Toppings: Fresh mint leaves or a dollop of yogurt add extra freshness
Caramelized baked grapefruit with a hint of brown sugar and cinnamon, a sweet and tangy breakfast or snack pin it
Caramelized baked grapefruit with a hint of brown sugar and cinnamon, a sweet and tangy breakfast or snack | myhomemaderecipe.com

Detailed Instructions

Grapefruit Preparation (5 minutes):
Slice grapefruit in half through the equator. Use a serrated knife to carefully cut around the rim. Score between each segment membrane. Pat the surface gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place on a stable, rimmed baking sheet.
Sugar Application (2 minutes):
Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over each half. Don't skimp - you want a good layer for caramelization. Add a light dusting of cinnamon. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow sugar to slightly dissolve.
Broiling Process (3-5 minutes):
Position rack 6 inches from broiler. Watch carefully as sugar begins to bubble. Rotate pan if needed for even browning. Remove when sugar is caramelized but not burnt.
Finishing Touches (1 minute):
Let cool slightly. Sprinkle with sea salt. Add optional garnishes. Serve while still warm.

My favorite memory of this dish is making it for my grandmother, who always ate her grapefruit plain. The look of delight on her face when she tasted the warm, caramelized version was priceless.

There's something meditative about preparing this dish - the careful cutting, the sprinkling of sugar, watching it transform under the broiler. It turns a simple breakfast into a moment of mindfulness.

Caramelized baked grapefruit with a hint of brown sugar and cinnamon, a sweet and tangy breakfast or snack pin it
Caramelized baked grapefruit with a hint of brown sugar and cinnamon, a sweet and tangy breakfast or snack | myhomemaderecipe.com

Final Thoughts: This baked grapefruit recipe proves that sometimes the simplest preparations yield the most memorable results. It's a reminder that with just a few minutes of attention, we can transform everyday ingredients into something truly special. Whether enjoyed as a quiet breakfast alone or shared at a festive brunch, this dish brings warmth and elegance to any morning table.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What's the difference between baking and broiling the grapefruit?
Baking at 400°F for 15-18 minutes softens all the fruit, while broiling for 6-8 minutes only caramelizes the top while keeping the fruit firmer.
→ Why add salt to the grapefruit?
The flaky sea salt enhances sweetness, balances any bitterness, and adds a pleasant crunchy texture to the dish.
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can cut and score the grapefruit ahead of time, but add the toppings just before baking for the best results.
→ What sugar alternatives work in this recipe?
White sugar, honey, or maple syrup can be used instead of brown sugar for different flavor profiles.
→ How do I know when the grapefruit is done?
When baking, the fruit should be soft and warm throughout. When broiling, look for melted, slightly caramelized sugar on top.

Sweet Baked Breakfast Grapefruit

Fresh grapefruit halves topped with brown sugar and cinnamon, then baked until warm and caramelized for a delightful breakfast or brunch dish.

Prep Time
2 Minutes
Cook Time
8 Minutes
Total Time
10 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Breakfast & Brunch

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 2 grapefruits, cut in half
02 1/4 cup (50 grams) brown sugar
03 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
04 Pinch of flaky sea salt (preferably Maldon)

Instructions

Step 01

Decide whether to bake (for softer, thoroughly warmed fruit) or broil (for a quicker preparation with charred tops and firmer fruit).

Step 02

For baking, heat oven to 400°F. For broiling, set broiler to high.

Step 03

Slice a small piece off the bottom of each grapefruit half to prevent wobbling. Cut around the fruit sections to loosen them, then place halves on a baking sheet.

Step 04

Sprinkle each grapefruit half with a tablespoon of brown sugar and a dusting of cinnamon.

Step 05

For broiling: place under broiler for 6-8 minutes until sugar melts. For baking: cook at 400°F for 15-18 minutes.

Step 06

Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and serve either warm or cold, according to preference.

Notes

  1. Baking grapefruit transforms its naturally tart flavor into something sweeter and more mellow. The longer you cook it, the milder it becomes.
  2. Feel free to substitute brown sugar with white sugar, honey, or maple syrup for different flavor profiles.
  3. The addition of flaky sea salt not only enhances sweetness and balances bitterness, but also adds a pleasant crunch.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Sharp knife

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 53
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: 14 g
  • Protein: 1 g