This easy grilled pineapple is sweet and smoky, topped with caramelized brown sugar that makes every bite a little piece of heaven! It’s a fun twist for summer BBQs or dessert.
Grilling brings out the pineapple’s natural sweetness, and the brown sugar adds that perfect caramel touch. I love to serve it with a scoop of ice cream—it’s a treat that makes you smile! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A fresh pineapple is key for this recipe. If it’s not available, canned pineapple can work in a pinch, but it may not have the same robust flavor. If you’re looking for variety, mango or peaches can be great substitutes.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds that rich, caramel taste. If you need a substitute, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to mimic the flavor. Coconut sugar is another excellent healthier option.
Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter. For a vegan option, look for plant-based butter.
Cinnamon: Adding cinnamon enhances the flavor, but it’s optional. If cinnamon isn’t your favorite, you can replace it with nutmeg or simply leave it out altogether for a fresher taste.
How Do I Grill Pineapple for the Best Flavor?
Grilling pineapple is simple but requires attention for the best results. You want to achieve nice grill marks and that caramelized sweetness. Here’s how:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. A hotter grill can lead to quicker cooking but might burn the sugar.
- Slice the pineapple evenly into 1-inch rounds to ensure they cook through at the same rate.
- Brush the pineapple with your caramelized brown sugar mixture. This adds flavor and helps with the caramelization.
- Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, flipping them once you see grill marks.
For an extra touch, drizzle any remaining brown sugar mixture over the grilled pineapple for that extra sweetness before serving. Enjoy it warm with ice cream and mint for a delightful treat!
Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 large fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and another 10-12 minutes for grilling. So, in total, you’ll need about 20-25 minutes to create this sweet treat—perfect for a summer day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Grill:
First things first! Preheat your grill to medium heat. This ensures that your pineapple will grill evenly and gain those tasty grill marks.
2. Preparing the Pineapple:
Now, let’s get that pineapple ready! Start by peeling and coring it. Then, slice the pineapple into 1-inch thick rounds. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; just try to keep them all about the same thickness so they cook evenly.
3. Making the Caramelized Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, unsalted butter, and cinnamon (if you chose to use it). Place it on low heat and stir until the mixture is smooth and the brown sugar fully dissolves. Once it’s ready, set it aside but keep it warm.
4. Brushing the Pineapple:
Take your caramelized brown sugar mixture and brush it generously on both sides of the pineapple slices. This will give them a beautiful flavor and help them caramelize on the grill!
5. Grilling the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple slices on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see lovely grill marks and the pineapple becomes tender. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once done, remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and drizzle any remaining caramelized brown sugar mixture over the top for an extra touch of sweetness.
7. Serving Up the Delight:
Serve the warm grilled pineapple with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh mint leaves for that lovely pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious treat!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh pineapple for the best flavor and texture, but if you’re in a pinch, canned pineapple can work. Just make sure to drain it thoroughly and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent caramelization on the grill.
How to Adjust the Sweetness of the Grilled Pineapple?
If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or mix in a bit of lemon juice to enhance the pineapple’s natural tang. For added sweetness, consider adding a drizzle of honey before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the grill for a couple of minutes until heated through, or enjoy cold in fruit salads or smoothies!
Can I Substitute Other Sweeteners for Brown Sugar?
Absolutely! You can use white sugar, coconut sugar, or even maple syrup as a substitute. If you’re using liquid sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, reduce the amount slightly, as they are sweeter than brown sugar. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might change a bit!
