This grilled pineapple brings sunshine to your plate! Sweet and smoky, it pairs perfectly with a light, fluffy coconut and cinnamon whipped cream that’s irresistible.
Every bite feels like a mini vacation! I love serving this at summer barbecues, and trust me, your friends will ask for seconds. Who wouldn’t want dessert that tastes like a tropical getaway? 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is juicy and sweet. If it’s not in season, you can use canned pineapple slices, but reduce grilling time. My personal favorite is grilled pineapple with a hint of smokiness; it adds a unique depth!
Brown Sugar: This adds caramelization and depth. If you’re out, you can use white sugar with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of sugar) for a similar effect. Coconut sugar is another great alternative – it has a nifty caramel taste!
Coconut Cream: Make sure to use chilled coconut cream for best whipping results. If you want a lighter option, use heavy whipping cream. However, if you’re keeping it dairy-free, stick with coconut cream for that tropical vibe!
Ground Cinnamon: A classic flavor that pairs perfectly with pineapple. If you’re in the mood for something different, try nutmeg or even cardamom for a spicy twist. Just remember that a little goes a long way with these stronger spices.
How Do I Perfectly Whip Coconut Cream?
Whipping coconut cream can be tricky, but with the right steps, you can achieve a fluffy texture. Start by chilling the coconut cream overnight; the solid part separates from the liquid, making it easy to whip.
- Once chilled, scoop out the solid and leave the water behind—this is great for smoothie bases!
- Use a hand mixer on medium speed and whip until soft peaks form, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then whip again until smooth and creamy.
Tip: For an extra creamy whipped cream, you can chill your mixing bowl and beaters as well!
Grilled Pineapple With Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 whole pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 5 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 10 minutes grilling the pineapple and making the whipped cream. It’s a quick and delightful dessert perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium heat. This will ensure your pineapple gets those lovely grill marks and cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This sweet and spicy mixture adds a wonderful flavor to the pineapple. Sprinkle it evenly over both sides of the pineapple rings so every bite is delicious.
3. Grill the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the prepared pineapple rings on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they have nice grill marks and feel tender. The natural sugars in the pineapple will caramelize and make it extra tasty.
4. Make the Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
While the pineapple is grilling, let’s whip up the coconut cream! In a mixing bowl, scoop out the solid part of the chilled coconut cream (you can discard the liquid). Using a hand mixer, whip the cream until it’s fluffy and light.
5. Sweeten the Whipped Cream:
To the whipped coconut cream, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix it well until everything is creamy and combined. Taste it— if you want it sweeter, you can add a little more powdered sugar!
6. Serve It Up:
Once the pineapple is grilled, take it off the grill and let it cool for just a minute. Now, place the grilled pineapple on a plate and add a generous dollop of your coconut cinnamon whipped cream on top.
7. Add the Finishing Touch:
For a color pop and a fresh flavor, garnish your dish with a few fresh mint leaves. They’ll make your dessert look beautiful and taste even better!
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream! It’s a tropical treat that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead?
While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple rings in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry before grilling to prevent excess moisture.
How Do I Store Leftover Coconut Whipped Cream?
You can store leftover coconut whipped cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick whisk before serving again, as it may separate slightly while stored.
Can I Make the Whipped Cream Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coconut cinnamon whipped cream ahead of time. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated and covered until you’re ready to serve it with the grilled pineapple.
What Should I Serve with Grilled Pineapple?
Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It’s great as a dessert on its own, but you can also serve it alongside grilled meats, or even as a topping for pancakes or yogurt for a delicious breakfast treat!
