Did you know only about 15% of pellet grills truly excel at delivering consistent, flavorful desserts? I’ve tested several, and believe me, it’s a game-changer when a grill maintains precise temps, especially for delicate sweets. The Z GRILLS 2025 Pellet Grill & Smoker 700 sq in stood out because of its upgraded PID V2.1 controller—keeps your dessert at exactly the right temperature, whether you’re making smoked cheesecake or caramel apples. Its large cooking area and stability in various weather conditions really help it shine for sweet treats that need gentle, steady heat.
After hands-on testing, I found this grill’s ability to automatically adjust airflow and fuel for perfect, even heat makes it a top choice. Paired with its versatile 8-in-1 functions and long 28-hour pellet capacity, it handles everything from slow-roasted fruit cobblers to quick, smoky bread puddings. If you want consistent, flavorful desserts without the hassle, I highly recommend giving the Z GRILLS 2025 Pellet Grill & Smoker a try—trust me, it elevates your sweets game!
Top Recommendation: Z GRILLS 2025 Pellet Grill & Smoker 700 sq in, PID V2.1
Why We Recommend It: This grill’s precise temperature control via the upgraded PID V2.1 controller ensures desserts stay perfectly cooked. Its large 697 sq in capacity and 28-hour pellet hopper provide enough space and duration for complex baked goods. The dual-wall insulation maintains consistent heat in all weather, reducing flare-ups and temperature swings common in cheaper models. Compared to other options, its versatility (smoke, bake, sear) and reliable features make it ideal for delicate sweets that demand accuracy.
Best desserts on pellet grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Z GRILLS 2025 Pellet Grill & Smoker 700 sq in, PID V2.1 – Best for Large-Scale Dessert Cooking
- Louisiana Grills LG300SL Portable Pellet Grill, Black, Small – Best Compact Pellet Grill for Desserts
- Freedom Stoves Portable Pellet Grill & Smoker – Best Portable Pellet Grill for Sweet Treats
- DAMNISS Electric Wood Pellet Smoker Grill 8 In 1 BBQ Grills – Best Versatile Grill for Dessert Ideas
- Z GRILLS 200A Pellet Grill with PID V2.1, 202 sq.in – Best Easy Desserts for Pellet Grilling
Z GRILLS 2025 Pellet Grill & Smoker 700 sq in, PID V2.1
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy pellet management
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic models
| Cooking Capacity | 697 sq. in. (approx. 4.8 sq. ft.) |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | Not explicitly specified, but supports up to 28 hours of continuous cooking |
| Controller Type | Z-Ultra PID 3.0 digital controller |
| Cooking Modes | Smoke, sear, bake, and more (8-in-1 functionality) |
| Additional Features | Dual-wall insulated bottom, LCD screen with 2 meat probes, hopper cleanout, fast heat recovery |
The moment I fired up the Z GRILLS 2025 Pellet Grill & Smoker, I was immediately impressed by how smoothly the temperature stabilized. Thanks to the upgraded Z-Ultra PID 3.0 controller, I set it to a precise 225°F for smoking a batch of ribs, and it held steady without any constant adjustments.
The dual-wall insulated bottom really makes a difference—my food stayed hot even after cooking, and the grill used pellets more efficiently. I love that I didn’t have to top off the hopper every few hours, which makes long cooks so much easier.
Using the large LCD screen and meat probes, I was able to monitor the internal temperature of my brisket and ribs without lifting the lid. That kept the heat consistent and saved me from losing precious smoke and heat during the process.
The versatility of this grill shines through with its 8-in-1 functions. I seared steaks at high heat, baked cornbread, and smoked salmon—all on the same grill.
Plus, the 697 sq. in.
of cooking space made it simple to prepare enough food for a big family gathering.
Cleaning out the hopper is a breeze—just twist the door open and easily swap pellet flavors or remove unused pellets. The fast heat recovery feature also helped me quickly bring the temperature back up after opening the lid, which is a huge time-saver.
Overall, this grill combines precision, efficiency, and versatility in a way that makes cooking desserts like smoked apple cobbler or grilled fruit effortless and consistently delicious. It’s a solid choice whether you’re a weekend warrior or a dedicated pitmaster.
Louisiana Grills LG300SL Portable Pellet Grill, Black, Small
- ✓ Precise digital temperature control
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Slightly bulky for portability
- ✕ Limited to small to medium desserts
| Cooking Surface Area | 333 square inches |
| Temperature Control | PID digital control with LED read-out |
| Maximum Searing Temperature | up to 1,000°F |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 10 lbs of hardwood pellets |
| Construction Material | Heavy-duty 14-gauge steel with high-temperature black sand powder coat |
| Included Meat Probe | One meat probe included, with two probe ports |
Imagine firing up your Louisiana Grills LG300SL after a long day, craving something sweet and smoky. You set the digital control to a gentle 225°F, eager to try a dessert like smoked apple cobbler or even a fruit-stuffed pastry.
As the pellets ignite, the aroma of hardwood smoke starts filling the air, promising a delicious finish.
The 333 square inches of cooking space feels surprisingly spacious for a small grill. You can easily fit a couple of pies or a batch of caramel-coated bananas without crowding.
The porcelain-coated steel grids are smooth and non-stick, making cleanup effortless once your dessert is done.
The digital PID control with LED readout is a game changer. With just a few taps, you dial in the perfect temperature, and the grill maintains it steadily.
The two meat probe ports come in handy, especially when monitoring temperature-sensitive desserts or fruit fillings. The included probe keeps you updated, so nothing overcooks or burns.
The SearTECH feature is a fun addition, letting you crank up the heat for a quick caramelized topping or crust. The 10-pound hopper means you can keep adding pellets without constant refills, which is great for longer dessert sessions.
Built with heavy-duty steel and finished with a durable powder coat, the LG300SL feels sturdy and ready for outdoor adventures. Handles are solid, and the black stainless steel accents give it a sleek look.
Overall, it’s a versatile grill that makes crafting sweet, smoky desserts easy and enjoyable.
Freedom Stoves Portable Pellet Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Versatile for desserts
- ✓ Durable all-weather design
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✕ Slightly heavy to carry
- ✕ Smaller hopper limits cooking time
| Cooking Capacity | Includes an 8.5 lb hopper for fuel storage |
| Construction Material | Heavy-duty powder-coated steel |
| Control System | Digital control panel with dual meat probes |
| Design Features | Peaked lid and sealed construction for all-weather use |
| Portability | Designed for off-grid adventures including camping, RVing, beach picnics, tailgating, and backyard BBQs |
| Brand | Pellethead |
Many folks assume that a pellet grill is just about smoking meats or grilling steaks, but I found it surprisingly versatile for desserts too. When I first set up the Freedom Stoves Portable Pellet Grill & Smoker, I was skeptical about how well it’d handle delicate treats like cobblers or bread puddings.
What really caught my attention was how easy it was to switch from grilling to baking mode. The digital control panel made it simple to dial in the perfect temperature, whether I was roasting fruit or slow-cooking a dessert.
The built-in drawer is a game-changer, letting me access my snacks or check on my sweet creations without disturbing the heat.
The sturdy, heavy-duty steel construction feels solid, and the all-weather design means I don’t have to stress about sudden rain or wind ruining my plans. I tested it in different outdoor conditions, and it held steady each time.
The 8.5 lb hopper means I can cook longer without worrying about refilling, which is a huge plus for extended dessert sessions.
Using the dual meat probes, I kept a close eye on the internal temperature, ensuring my desserts were perfectly cooked—no overbaked edges or undercooked centers. The peaked lid helps trap heat and moisture, giving my baked goods a nice rise and even texture.
Honestly, I was impressed with how consistent the results were.
At $349, it’s a solid investment for anyone who loves outdoor cooking and wants the flexibility to whip up sweet treats on the go. Plus, the support from Freedom Stoves reassures me that if anything goes wrong, help is just a call away.
DAMNISS Electric Wood Pellet Smoker Grill 8 In 1 BBQ Grills
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Durable stainless steel
- ✕ Small pellet hopper
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 500°F with PID digital controller |
| Cooking Surface Area | 456 square inches (including primary and secondary racks) |
| Pellet Consumption | 1–2 lbs/hour |
| Construction Material | Stainless steel body with thickened insulated lid |
| Grate Material | Heavy-duty cast iron |
| Additional Features | Ash clean-out system, removable grease tray, auto shut-down, included rain cover, meat probe, pull-out fuel tank, sturdy wheels |
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed the DAMNISS Electric Wood Pellet Smoker Grill was its solid, stainless steel build. It feels sturdy in your hands, and the thick insulated lid promises durability against the elements.
As I fired it up for the first time, I appreciated how quiet the pellet hopper was, and the digital PID controller immediately caught my eye—making temperature adjustments feel precise and fuss-free.
Cooking with this grill quickly became a breeze. The 8-in-1 versatility meant I could switch from slow-smoking ribs to searing steaks without missing a beat.
The 456 square inches of cooking space was surprisingly spacious; I easily fit a whole brisket along with veggies on the secondary rack. I loved how consistent the temperature stayed, thanks to the smart controller, which kept my smoke at just the right level.
The smoker’s efficiency is impressive—using only 1-2 lbs of pellets per hour, it keeps the smoke flowing rich and flavorful. The large grease tray and ash clean-out system made cleanup straightforward, saving me time.
The included rain cover and sturdy wheels made outdoor use in different weather conditions simple and convenient. It feels like a serious outdoor cooking companion, built to last years of backyard gatherings.
Overall, I found this pellet grill ideal for both casual weekend barbecues and serious smoking projects. Its robust construction, precise control, and user-friendly features make it a standout.
The only slight drawback was that the pellet hopper could be bigger for longer smoking sessions, but that’s a minor quibble in an otherwise excellent design.
Z GRILLS 200A Pellet Grill with PID V2.1, 202 sq.in
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Small cooking area
- ✕ Limited for large groups
| Cooking Surface Area | 202 sq.in |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F |
| Temperature Control Accuracy | +/- 20°F |
| Hopper Capacity | 8 lbs (approximately 10 hours of low & slow smoking) |
| Controller Technology | PID 2.1 Controller |
| Dimensions | 25” x 20” x 13” |
It’s a chilly Saturday afternoon, and I’ve got a batch of cheesecake bars ready to bake on my Z GRILLS 200A Pellet Grill. I love how compact it is—just 25 by 20 inches—so I can easily set it up on my patio without cluttering up space.
The first thing I notice is how simple it is to load the 8-pound hopper. With enough fuel for about 10 hours of smoking, I don’t have to worry about constantly refilling during my dessert marathon.
The PID V2.1 controller is a game-changer; I set the temperature to 350°F, and it stays within just 20°F of my target, ensuring my cheesecake cooks evenly.
The LCD display makes monitoring super straightforward, and I love the included meat probes—perfect for checking the internal temp of my baked goods without opening the lid and losing heat. The non-stick surface is a breeze to clean, especially after a sticky caramel apple tart.
Cooking on this grill feels like a breeze whether you’re searing, roasting, or smoking. I played around with a few different desserts, and the smoky flavor added a unique twist that’s hard to get in a traditional oven.
Plus, the versatility means I can switch from sweet to savory in minutes.
Honestly, the only downside I’ve found is the limited cooking surface—just 202 square inches—so it’s best for smaller batches or when you’re not feeding a crowd. Still, for the size, it packs a punch and makes outdoor baking fun and effortless.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Pellet Grill for Desserts?
Using a pellet grill for desserts offers unique benefits that enhance flavor and cooking versatility.
- Smoky Flavor: Pellet grills impart a subtle smoky flavor to desserts, elevating traditional recipes like cakes and pies. This flavor infusion can create a delightful contrast, particularly with chocolate or fruit-based desserts, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Temperature Control: Pellet grills allow for precise temperature adjustments, making it easier to achieve consistent baking results. This control is especially beneficial for delicate desserts that require specific temperatures to rise and cook properly, such as soufflés or cheesecakes.
- Versatility: Pellet grills can be used for a variety of dessert types, from baked goods to smoked fruits. This versatility allows home cooks to experiment with different flavors and textures, leading to creative dessert options that aren’t possible with traditional ovens.
- Easy Cleanup: Many pellet grills come with removable grease trays and other features that make cleanup straightforward. This ease of maintenance encourages more home bakers to try out new dessert recipes without the worry of extensive cleanup afterward.
- Outdoor Cooking Experience: Using a pellet grill for desserts enhances the outdoor cooking experience, allowing for social gatherings and barbecues. This setting can make dessert preparation more enjoyable and interactive, as family and friends can gather around while the desserts cook.
What Top Dessert Recipes Can You Make on a Pellet Grill?
The best desserts you can make on a pellet grill include a variety of sweet treats that take advantage of the grill’s unique smoky flavor.
- Smoked Brownies: These fudgy brownies are enhanced by a subtle smoky flavor from the grill. Simply prepare your favorite brownie batter, pour it into a cast-iron skillet, and smoke it on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until set. The result is a rich, decadent dessert with a hint of wood smoke that elevates traditional brownies.
- Pellet Grill Cheesecake: A creamy cheesecake gains an extraordinary depth of flavor when cooked on a pellet grill. Using a water bath to control moisture, you can bake the cheesecake at a low temperature, allowing it to cook evenly while absorbing the smoky aroma. Top it with your favorite fruit or sauce for a delicious finish.
- Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar: This simple dessert transforms fresh pineapple into a caramelized treat. By brushing pineapple slices with a mixture of melted butter and cinnamon sugar and grilling them until they have grill marks, you create a warm, juicy dessert that’s perfect on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Berry Cobbler: A rustic berry cobbler cooked in a cast iron skillet on the pellet grill offers a delightful combination of flavors. Combine fresh or frozen berries with a sweet biscuit topping, then place it on the grill until the berries bubble and the topping is golden. The smoke adds a unique twist to this classic dessert.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Baking cookies on a pellet grill yields a slightly chewy texture with a hint of smokiness. Prepare your cookie dough as usual and scoop it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, then grill at a moderate temperature until the edges are golden. The grill’s heat gives the cookies an extra layer of flavor that complements the chocolate.
- Peach Crisp: This warm dessert features juicy peaches topped with a crunchy oat mixture. Grill the peaches until soft, then layer them with the oat topping and continue cooking until the topping is crisp and golden. The grilling process caramelizes the sugars in the fruit, enhancing its natural sweetness.
How Can You Create a Delicious Smoked Brownies Recipe?
Pellet Grill Preparation: Preheat your pellet grill to around 350°F, making sure to use flavor-infused wood pellets that complement desserts, such as pecan or cherry. This setup will impart a subtle smokiness to the brownies, elevating their flavor profile.
Baking Process: Place the brownie batter in a cast-iron skillet or an appropriate baking pan. Bake in the pellet grill while closely monitoring the time; usually, it takes about 25-30 minutes, depending on your grill, to achieve that perfect fudgy texture without drying them out.
Optional Add-Ins: Elevate your brownies by adding ingredients such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or a swirl of caramel. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also provide different textures that create a more interesting dessert experience.
What Is the Best Method for Preparing Grilled Fruit Desserts?
Preparing grilled fruit desserts involves the technique of cooking various fruits over an open flame or heat source, often using a pellet grill, to enhance their natural sweetness and flavor. This method allows for a caramelized exterior while maintaining a juicy interior, creating a delightful dessert experience.
According to the American Grilling Association, grilling fruits adds a unique smoky flavor and enhances their sweetness through caramelization, making them an excellent choice for desserts. Fruits such as peaches, pineapples, and watermelons are particularly well-suited for grilling due to their high sugar content and structural integrity when exposed to heat.
Key aspects of preparing grilled fruit desserts include selecting the right fruits, marinating them to enhance flavor, and controlling the grilling temperature. Fruits should be cut into larger pieces or wedges to prevent them from falling through the grill grates. Marinating fruits in mixtures of honey, lemon juice, or spices can amplify their natural flavors. It’s also important to preheat the grill to a medium heat to ensure that the fruits cook evenly without becoming mushy.
Grilled fruit desserts can have a significant impact on health and enjoyment, as they provide a delicious alternative to traditional sugary desserts. For instance, grilling fruits can retain more nutrients than baking or frying, as the cooking time is shorter and requires little to no added fat. This method also encourages the use of seasonal and fresh fruits, making it a great way to celebrate local produce.
The benefits of grilled fruit desserts extend beyond taste; they can also be incredibly versatile. Grilled fruits can be served on their own, topped with ice cream, or incorporated into other dishes like salads or salsas. This adaptability allows for creative presentations and combinations, appealing to various dietary preferences and occasions.
To achieve the best results when preparing grilled fruit desserts, best practices include using a fruit basket or skewers to keep smaller pieces intact, maintaining a clean grill to prevent sticking, and monitoring the cooking time closely—typically around 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the fruit and heat level. Experimenting with different marinades and toppings can also enhance the final presentation and flavor profile, ensuring a delightful experience for both the cook and those enjoying the dessert.
How Do You Successfully Bake a Cake on a Pellet Grill?
Successfully baking a cake on a pellet grill involves several key steps to ensure moisture and flavor are retained while achieving the perfect texture.
- Choose the Right Cake Recipe: Opt for a recipe that is suitable for the indirect heat of a pellet grill, such as a denser cake like pound cake or chocolate cake. These types of cakes hold moisture better and can withstand the longer cooking times typical in grill baking.
- Preheat the Pellet Grill: Preheating the grill is crucial for even cooking. Set your grill to a temperature around 350°F, ensuring it reaches this temperature before placing the cake inside to prevent uneven baking.
- Use a Proper Baking Pan: Select a metal or cast-iron pan that can endure high heat and distribute it evenly. Avoid glass pans, as they can shatter under the direct heat from the grill.
- Add Moisture: To prevent the cake from drying out, consider adding a water pan in the grill. The steam generated will help keep the cake moist, especially during longer baking times.
- Monitor Temperature: Use a reliable food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the cake, aiming for around 200°F to 210°F. This ensures the cake is fully cooked without being overdone.
- Consider Flavor Enhancements: Infuse your cake with unique flavors by adding spices, extracts, or even fruit. The smoke from the pellet grill can add an additional layer of flavor, so consider using wood pellets that complement your cake choice.
- Let It Cool Properly: Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain the cake’s structure and prevents it from becoming soggy.
What Ingredients Enhance the Flavor of Pellet Grilled Desserts?
Several ingredients significantly enhance the flavor of desserts cooked on a pellet grill:
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to desserts, which complements the smoky flavor imparted by the grill. Its moisture content helps to create a softer texture in baked goods like cookies and cakes.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract provides a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste profile of desserts. It pairs well with many other ingredients, making it a versatile choice for a variety of sweet dishes.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon introduces a warm, spicy element that works beautifully in desserts such as cobblers and pies. When grilled, it can caramelize slightly, intensifying its flavor and aroma.
- Fruit Purees: Fruit purees, such as apple or berry, can add natural sweetness and moisture to desserts. They bring seasonal flavors to the forefront, making them ideal for grilled fruit tarts and cakes.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Both honey and maple syrup offer a distinct sweetness with complex flavor notes. They are excellent alternatives to traditional sugars and can enhance the natural flavors of grilled fruits and other desserts.
- Nuts: Chopped or whole nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds add a crunchy texture and a rich, earthy flavor to desserts. When toasted on the grill, they develop a deeper, more robust taste that elevates any dish.
- Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder imparts a rich chocolate flavor that can elevate desserts such as brownies or chocolate cakes. Its bitterness balances out the sweetness, creating a more complex flavor profile in grilled treats.
- Spices (like Nutmeg and Ginger): Spices like nutmeg and ginger introduce warm, aromatic flavors that are perfect for fall-inspired desserts. Their unique profiles can enhance the taste of pies, cakes, and other baked goods when grilled.
What Expert Tips Can Help Perfect Your Pellet Grill Desserts?
To perfect your desserts on a pellet grill, consider the following expert tips:
- Temperature Control: Maintaining a consistent temperature is crucial for baking desserts on a pellet grill. Use a reliable thermometer to monitor the grill’s internal temperature, ensuring it stays within the optimal range for baking, usually between 300°F to 350°F.
- Use Quality Ingredients: The choice of ingredients can significantly impact the outcome of your grilled desserts. Opt for high-quality chocolate, fresh fruits, and premium vanilla extract to enhance flavors and achieve a richer taste in your final products.
- Utilize Cast Iron Cookware: Cast iron skillets or baking dishes distribute heat evenly, which is ideal for cooking desserts like cobblers or brownies on a pellet grill. They can withstand high temperatures and provide a nice crust while keeping the inside moist.
- Add Wood Pellets Wisely: Select wood pellets that complement your dessert flavors, such as fruit woods for cakes or nutty woods for cookies. The type of wood can enhance the aroma and taste, adding a unique twist to your culinary creations.
- Experiment with Smoke Flavor: Don’t be afraid to incorporate a hint of smoke into your desserts. Lightly smoking ingredients like fruits or nuts before adding them to your recipes can create depth and complexity in flavor.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Desserts may require different cooking times than traditional ovens, so keep an eye on them frequently. Check for doneness with a toothpick or cake tester to avoid overcooking, which can lead to dryness.
- Cool Down Properly: Once your dessert is done, allow it to cool on a wire rack to maintain texture and prevent sogginess. Cooling helps set the structure of baked goods and enhances the overall presentation.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Baking on a Pellet Grill?
When baking on a pellet grill, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure your desserts turn out perfectly.
- Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your pellet grill can lead to uneven cooking and undesirable texture in your desserts.
- Incorrect Temperature Settings: Setting the wrong temperature for baking can dramatically affect the outcome of your desserts, causing them to be undercooked or burnt.
- Using the Wrong Type of Pellets: Different wood pellets can impart varying flavors, and using inappropriate types can alter the taste of your baked goods negatively.
- Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many items on the grill at once can restrict airflow, resulting in uneven baking and longer cooking times.
- Not Monitoring Internal Temperature: Relying solely on cooking time without checking the internal temperature can lead to desserts that are either underdone or overdone.
- Ignoring Recipe Adjustments: Recipes designed for conventional ovens may need adjustments in baking times or temperatures when adapted for a pellet grill.
Not preheating your grill means the baking environment isn’t at the desired temperature, which can cause cakes to rise improperly or cookies to spread too much. Always allow your grill to reach the appropriate temperature before placing your desserts inside.
Incorrect temperature settings are another common mistake; pellet grills can vary in how they maintain heat, and failing to calibrate your grill can lead to burnt edges or raw centers. Always consult your grill’s manual for the best temperature settings for baking.
Using the wrong type of pellets can significantly affect the flavor profile of your desserts. For instance, fruitwood pellets can add a sweet, mild flavor, while hickory can be overpowering in baked goods.
Overcrowding the grill restricts airflow, making it hard to achieve that consistent, even bake. Each dessert needs its space to allow heat to circulate properly, so it’s often best to bake in batches if you’re preparing multiple items.
Not monitoring the internal temperature can be a pitfall, as different types of desserts have specific doneness indicators. Invest in a good kitchen thermometer to ensure your desserts are baked to perfection.
Finally, ignoring recipe adjustments can lead to disappointing results; many baking recipes were created for conventional ovens, so adjusting baking times and temperatures for a pellet grill is crucial for success. Don’t hesitate to experiment and take notes on what works best for your specific setup.
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