This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a delicious treat that mixes sweet and smoky flavors. It’s super easy to make and perfect for summer BBQs or dessert!
Honestly, who can resist the golden, juicy pieces of pineapple? They are like sunshine on a plate! 🍍 I love serving them warm with vanilla ice cream—such a yummy combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is essential for this recipe. Look for one that’s fragrant at the base and slightly soft to the touch. If you can’t find fresh pineapple, canned pineapple slices can work, but they’ll have a softer texture.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a deep caramel flavor. You can use white sugar if you’re in a pinch. However, consider adding a little molasses for a richer taste. For a healthier option, coconut sugar can also be a delightful substitute.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil is a great alternative. It brings a nice flavor that complements the pineapple.
Cinnamon: This is optional but adds warmth and depth. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or swap it for nutmeg or ginger for a different twist.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish. If you don’t have it, lemon juice can stand in nicely. Just keep in mind it might taste slightly different!
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Pineapple on the Grill?
Getting that beautiful caramelization on the pineapple is all about the right technique. Here are steps to ensure your grilled pineapple turns out perfectly:
- Cut the pineapple into thick slices, about 1-inch thick. Thicker pieces will hold up better on the grill and won’t fall apart.
- Mix the brown sugar paste thoroughly to ensure it sticks well to the pineapple. The mixture should be thick enough to coat without dripping off.
- Preheat your grill and lightly grease it. This prevents sticking and helps create those lovely grill marks.
- Grill on medium heat. Too high of a heat will burn the sugar before the pineapple cooks through.
- After 2-3 minutes, check for those grill marks before flipping. Cooking too long can make it mushy.
- Lastly, let the pineapple cool slightly after grilling. This helps the caramel set and makes it easier to eat!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 medium ripe pineapple
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Pinch of salt
- Cooking spray or additional butter for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to grill. In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes to enjoy your sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
Start by getting your pineapple ready. Cut off the top and bottom so it stands flat. Then, slice off the skin, making sure to remove any “eyes” left behind. Cut the pineapple into thick rectangular slices or wedges, about 1-inch thick. This will help them grill nicely!
2. Make the Coating Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, scrub together the brown sugar, melted butter, ground cinnamon (if you want a little spice), lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until it forms a thick paste. This gooey mix is what makes the pineapple super tasty!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill going by preheating it to medium heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat instead. You want it hot enough for those lovely grill marks!
4. Coat the Pineapple Slices:
Take your pineapple slices and brush each side generously with the brown sugar mixture. Make sure they’re well-coated for that delicious caramelization!
5. Prepare the Grill:
To make sure your pineapple doesn’t stick, give the grill grates a light greasing with cooking spray or a brush of melted butter. This will help it release easily after grilling.
6. Grill the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll see beautiful grill marks, and the brown sugar should start to caramelize, giving it a shiny look.
7. Let It Cool:
Once grilled to perfection, take the pineapple off the grill and let it cool slightly on a plate. This little rest makes it easy to handle and helps the flavors settle.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, caramelized pineapple slices on a plate. For an extra treat, you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey on top to make it even sweeter! Enjoy your delicious dessert!
Can I Use Other Types of Sugar for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While brown sugar gives a rich caramel flavor, you can use white granulated sugar or coconut sugar as alternatives. Just keep in mind that using white sugar may not provide the same depth of flavor and color.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can prepare the pineapple in a grill pan on the stove or even in the oven. If using the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C) and place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until caramelized.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a pan over low heat or in the microwave for a short time until heated through. Enjoy them as a tasty topping for pancakes or yogurt!
Can I Add Other Flavors or Toppings?
Definitely! You can experiment by adding a splash of rum or vanilla extract to the brown sugar mixture for extra flavor. Toppings like toasted coconut, crushed nuts, or fresh mint can also enhance the dish’s flavor and presentation.
