This easy grilled pineapple is a sweet treat with a fun twist! The tangy pineapple slices get a delicious caramelized coating from brown sugar as they cook on the grill.
It’s like a tropical party on your plate! I love serving it with ice cream for an extra special treat. Why not make your grill the star of dessert night? 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Use a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. Look for one that’s slightly soft when squeezed and has a sweet smell. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple can work, but choose those without added sugars for a healthier option.
Brown Sugar: This gives the pineapple a rich sweetness. If you’re looking for a less sweet option, coconut sugar is a great alternative. You could even use honey or maple syrup, just be careful since they are more liquid and may alter the caramelizing process.
Butter: I prefer using unsalted butter for more control over saltiness. If you’re avoiding dairy, coconut oil is a great vegan substitute that complements the flavor of the pineapple well.
Cinnamon: This is optional, but it adds warm flavor to the dish. If cinnamon isn’t your thing, you can try nutmeg or even a dash of cardamom for a different spice profile.
Vanilla Ice Cream: While this is a classic pairing, you can use any ice cream flavor you love, or try dairy-free versions if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant. A scoop of coconut or almond milk ice cream pairs nicely.
How Do You Get Perfect Grill Marks and Caramelization?
Grilling pineapple to get those perfect grill marks and a delightful caramelized finish is key. Here’s how to ensure it turns out beautifully:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat; this helps caramelization without burning.
- Brush the pineapple rings liberally to ensure even coverage of the sugar mixture. The sugar will melt and caramelize as it grills.
- Place rings on the grill without overcrowding. Give them space for even cooking and better marks.
- Don’t flip too soon! Let them grill for 3-4 minutes for nice marks before turning.
- After grilling, let them rest for a minute; this helps the sugars settle and creates a deliciously warm topping.
With these tips and careful attention, you’ll have grilled pineapple that’s caramelized to perfection!
Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch thick rings
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 8-10 minutes to grill. So, you’ll have a tasty dessert ready in just about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This is important to ensure that your pineapple gets nice grill marks and caramelizes perfectly.
2. Make the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon (if you want that extra touch of flavor). Stir until it’s smooth and well combined. This sweet mixture will add great flavor to your grilled pineapple!
3. Prepare the Pineapple:
Using a pastry brush, generously brush both sides of the pineapple rings with the brown sugar mixture. Make sure each ring is well-coated to get the best caramelization!
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Carefully place the pineapple rings on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when you see nice grill marks and the sugar begins to caramelize. This adds a lovely flavor and sweetness to the pineapple.
5. Cool and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. Serve the warm pineapple rings with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious contrast. Drizzle some of the caramelized sauce from the grill over everything and finish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color!
6. Enjoy!
Indulge in your easy and tasty grilled pineapple with caramelized brown sugar. It’s a delightful treat that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple rings. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels before grilling to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent caramelization.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No problem! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or even bake the pineapple in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Just keep an eye to ensure it caramelizes nicely!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving, and consider adding a scoop of fresh ice cream to enjoy again!
Can I Substitute the Brown Sugar?
Yes! You can use coconut sugar or maple syrup as alternatives for brown sugar, though the final flavor will vary slightly. If using maple syrup, brush it on just before grilling to avoid burning.
