This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a treat for your taste buds! With sweet, juicy pineapple caramelized to perfection, it’s the perfect summer dessert.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a little sweetness? 😄 I like to serve it with ice cream or yogurt for a fruity twist. It’s super easy to whip up, and your guests will think you’re a gourmet chef!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor! Look for one that smells sweet at the base and gives slightly when pressed. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple rings, though the texture will be slightly different.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel flavor. If you’re out, white sugar can work in a pinch, but you can also mix white sugar with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar) for a similar taste.
Cinnamon: This is optional but adds warmth and spice. If you don’t have cinnamon, nutmeg or allspice can be substituted to give a different but still tasty flavor twist.
Butter: Melted butter helps the sugar stick to the pineapple and adds richness. You can substitute coconut oil or a dairy-free butter if you’re keeping it vegan!
How Do I Prepare Pineapple for Grilling?
Preparing the pineapple properly is key to ensure you get the perfect grilled treat. Here’s how to do it:
- First, carefully peel the pineapple with a sharp knife, removing all the skin and any remaining “eyes.”
- Next, cut off the tough core by cutting around it in the center. You can also use a corer if you have one.
- Finally, slice the pineapple into 1-inch thick pieces or wedges. Thicker slices hold up better on the grill.
Pro tip: Soaking the cut slices in a little coconut milk or rum (if you prefer) for about 15 minutes before grilling can add more flavor.
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pineapple:
- 1 medium ripe pineapple
For the Coating:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to grill. So, you’re looking at about 25 minutes total from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
Start by peeling the pineapple. First, cut off the top and bottom to give it a flat base. Stand it upright and carefully slice off the skin, following the contour of the fruit. Once peeled, cut the pineapple in half lengthwise, remove the core, and slice it into thick wedges or round slices, about 1-inch thick.
2. Make the Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon (if you like an extra kick of flavor), and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is nicely blended together. This mixture will give your pineapple a delicious caramelized coat.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Turn your grill to medium-high heat to get it nice and hot for grilling. While that’s heating up, you can prepare the pineapple.
4. Coat the Pineapple:
Using a brush or a spoon, coat both sides of each pineapple slice with the brown sugar mixture. Make sure it’s spread generously for that yummy caramelization!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Carefully place the coated pineapple slices on the hot grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re caramelized and have those beautiful grill marks.
6. Serve:
Once grilled, take the pineapple off the grill and let it cool for a few moments. If you’d like, garnish with fresh mint leaves to add a pop of color and flavor.
7. Enjoy:
Serve your grilled caramelized pineapple warm as a delightful dessert or a tasty side dish for any meal. Enjoy the sweet and smoky flavors!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple is ideal for achieving a nice caramelization, you can use canned pineapple slices in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture, which can hinder caramelization on the grill.
How Can I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy it later, simply reheat briefly on the grill or in a skillet until warmed through. You can also add it to yogurt or salads for a sweet twist!
What If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
No worries! You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar mixed with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of white sugar) to mimic the flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar or maple sugar can provide a similar taste profile.
Can I Make This on a Stovetop Grill Pan?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan works just as well. Preheat your grill pan over medium-high heat, and follow the same grilling instructions. You may need to watch the cooking time closely, as stovetop grills can vary in heat.
