Sizzling Braai Dessert Ideas to Wow Your Guests

When you think of a braai, dessert isn’t always the first thing that comes to mind. However, South African braai culture has expanded beyond the traditional savoury fare to include some truly delicious sweet treats. Whether hosting a small family gathering or a larger celebration, these braai dessert ideas will delight your guests and make your outdoor feast even more memorable.

Unique South African Braai Desserts

South Africa’s rich culinary heritage offers a variety of unique braai desserts that will add a local twist to your meal. One standout is the braaied malva pudding, a caramelised, spongy delight that pairs perfectly with a cream or ice cream dollop. You can also try a grilled milk tart—an innovative spin on the classic dessert with a smoky flavour infused from the braai. For something simpler, braaied koeksisters take these syrupy doughnuts to the next level by giving them a slightly crispy, charred edge.

If you’re looking for a showstopper, try braaied pineapple with cinnamon sugar. The pineapple’s natural sweetness caramelises on the grill, making it one of the best braai dessert ideas. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for that extra touch, and you’ve got a dessert that feels both familiar and exotic.

Kid-Friendly Braai Desserts

When it comes to kid-friendly braai desserts, simplicity is key. Children love getting involved, so consider letting them make their banana splits. Simply place bananas on the braai, cut them open, and let the kids fill them with marshmallows, chocolate chips, and sprinkles. The result is a gooey, melty treat for the whole family.

Another great option is braaied s’mores—an American classic with a South African twist. Grill marshmallows over the coals and sandwich them between Marie biscuits with a chunk of chocolate. These kid-friendly braai desserts are fun to make and eat, and they’ll keep your little ones entertained while the grown-ups chat around the fire.

Braai Desserts for a Group of People

If you’re catering to a crowd, you’ll need braai desserts for a group of people that are easy to prepare and serve. A braaied chocolate fondue is a crowd-pleaser, where everyone can dip fruit, marshmallows, and biscuits into melted chocolate. Simply place a pot of chocolate on the braai and keep it warm throughout the meal.

Grilled peaches with honey and mascarpone is another dessert that’s both easy to scale and sophisticated enough for a group. Peaches grill beautifully, and when served with a drizzle of honey and a spoonful of mascarpone, they become a light yet indulgent treat that everyone will enjoy.

For a more traditional option, you can serve a braaied bread-and-butter pudding. This dessert is hearty enough to feed a large crowd and can be made directly on the grill in a cast-iron pot. The smokiness from the coals adds a wonderful depth to the flavour, making it one of the great braai desserts for social gatherings.

Boozy Braai Desserts for Adults

Sometimes, your dessert can double as a nightcap. For adults who enjoy a boozy twist, there are plenty of braai desserts for adults that incorporate South Africa’s favourite liquors. Try grilled pears with Amarula—a simple yet elegant dessert where the pears are braaied until tender and then drizzled with a generous pour of Amarula cream liqueur.

Another indulgent option is braaied chocolate and rum bananas. Slice the bananas, stuff them with dark chocolate, and wrap them in foil before placing them on the grill. Once they’re cooked, open the foil and drizzle with rum for a warming, adults-only treat.

For something refreshing, try grilled watermelon with vodka. The smoky flavour of the grilled watermelon pairs surprisingly well with a splash of vodka, making it one of the best boozy braai desserts for adults to serve at your next gathering.

Book Your Stay at Mbizi Lodge

As you plan your next braai, why not take it to the bushveld for an authentic experience? At Mbizi Game Lodge & Spa, we offer the perfect backdrop for your outdoor culinary adventures, with plenty of space to braai and enjoy the beauty of the wilderness. Whether you’re travelling from Gauteng, Limpopo, or further afield, our lodge offers a serene escape just a short distance from Mabula Lodge and Zebula Lodge, where the Big Five roam. Book your stay at Mbizi today and experience the best of South African hospitality alongside your unforgettable braai. Contact us for more information now.