This easy grilled pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat! When it’s grilled, the natural sugars come out, and with a sprinkle of brown sugar, it gets even more delicious. Yum!
I love serving it as a fun dessert at summer BBQs, and it pairs perfectly with ice cream! Who can resist warm fruit and creamy goodness? Trust me, it’s a hit every time! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is the star here! Look for one that’s ripe, with a sweet aroma. If fresh is unavailable, you could use canned pineapple slices, just make sure to drain them well.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the pineapple. If you want a less sweet option, you could use coconut sugar, which will give a slight flavor twist.
Butter: I use melted butter for the mix because it adds richness. For a dairy-free version, feel free to substitute coconut oil or vegan butter.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is optional but adds a warm flavor. If you want a different spice profile, try nutmeg or allspice instead.
Vanilla Ice Cream: This pairs perfectly with the warm pineapple. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut or almond milk ice cream works beautifully!
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Pineapple?
The key to grilling pineapple is to achieve that caramelized exterior without losing its juicy texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat—this ensures even cooking.
- Mix your brown sugar and butter well. Brush it generously on both sides of the pineapple slices.
- Grill the pineapple for 3-4 minutes per side. Look for nice grill marks as a sign of caramelization.
- Let the grilled pineapple sit for a couple of minutes before serving; it allows the juices to settle.
Experiment with grilling times based on your grill model; some may cook quicker than others. Enjoy the sweet, smoky flavor!
Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful grilled pineapple dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to grill. So, you can have this sweet treat ready in just 20 minutes—perfect for a quick dessert or summer barbecue!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure your pineapple cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon (if you like a hint of spice). Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth.
3. Brush the Pineapple:
Grab your pineapple rings and brush both sides of each ring with the delicious brown sugar mixture. Make sure they are nicely coated for that perfect caramelized flavor!
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Carefully place the pineapple rings on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for those beautiful grill marks and a slight caramelization of the sugar.
5. Let Rest:
Once they’re done, take the pineapple off the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes them easier to handle.
6. Serve the Delicacies:
Serve the warm grilled pineapple rings drizzled with any leftover brown sugar mixture. Top it off with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect contrast of warm and cold!
7. Add a Touch of Freshness:
Finally, garnish your dish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor. Now, it’s ready to enjoy!
Enjoy your deliciously sweet and smoky grilled pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
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 with paper towels to prevent excess moisture when grilling.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of white sugar) to create a similar flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar or maple sugar works well too for a different but equally delicious twist.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the grill for a minute on each side to regain some of that grilled flavor, or pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
Can I Add Other Spices or Toppings?
Absolutely! You can experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice for added warmth. For toppings, consider going beyond vanilla ice cream with options like whipped cream, shredded coconut, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence!
