Bruléed Grapefruit

It hasn't always been that way though.  Even though I enjoyed the occasional sweet treat as a kid and through my early 20's, I didn't crave sugar the way that I do now.  I don't know why, but about 10 years ago, it's like my sweet tooth was activated.  Sometimes, I'll even dream about fudge and ice cream.

I knew this much sugar wasn't good for me, but didn't give it much thought until recently.  My waist line has certainly suffered over the last couple months and my skin has gone a little crazy. And thanks to all of that sugar, I get to look forward to the root canal I have scheduled for tomorrow morning.

You can probably imagine that my New Year's resolution is to take it easy on the sweets.  I know myself better than to go cold turkey with my sugar addiction though.  I'm planning on being much more aware of how much sugar I'm using, and definitely limiting that amount.

For these bruléed grapefruits, I only used about a teaspoon of brown sugar on each half.  Isn't bruléeing magical?  I love breaking out my kitchen torch and watching sugar transform by browning and bubbling.  I actually enjoy eating just a plain grapefruit for breakfast every once in a while.  But adding just a touch of brown sugar and sticking the grapefruit under the broiler takes it to whole other level.  It's one of those simple and easy but really elegant tricks you can use to make any brunch that much more special.

..... or just a boring Tuesday morning breakfast.

Well, wish me luck on this whole cutting back on sugar thing..... I already gave into a cup of super sweet coffee.  Oh well.  Any new year's resolutions for you?

Bruléed Grapefruit  (per serving)

1 grapefruit

2 teaspoons brown sugar (or to taste)

1.  Preheat your broiler.

2.  Slice the grapefruit in half and arrange in a baking dish or on a cookie sheet.

3.  Top each slice with desired amount of brown sugar.

4.  Bake in the oven for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the the sugar is caramelized and the grapefruit is golden brown.

5.  Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.