This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet treat that’s perfect for summer! With just a few simple ingredients, you get juicy, delicious slices that are irresistible!
Honestly, who doesn’t love pineapple that tastes like a warm hug? 🍍 I like to serve it with ice cream or just enjoy it on its own. It’s a refreshing way to sweeten your day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is always the best choice for grilling! Its natural juices enhance the sweet flavor. If you’re looking for convenience, canned pineapple rings are a quick substitute, but fresh really brings a better texture.
Brown Sugar: This ingredient is key for caramelization. If you run low, you can use white sugar with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon per cup) to mimic brown sugar. Alternatively, coconut sugar offers a similar taste and is a little healthier.
Cinnamon: It’s optional, but I find cinnamon adds a lovely warmth to the dish. If you want a different flavor, try nutmeg or cardamom instead for a twist on the typical taste.
Unsalted Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness, but if you’re dairy-free, coconut oil works well too and complements the tropical flavor of the pineapple.
How Do You Get the Perfect Grill Marks on Pineapple?
Getting those beautiful grill marks while caramelizing the sugars is all about the right technique. Start by ensuring your grill is preheated properly with a medium-high heat. This will help caramelize the sugars effectively.
- Cut the pineapple into 1-inch thick planks or wedges to allow easy grilling without falling apart.
- Coat the cut sides well with your brown sugar mixture. This will lead to better caramelization.
- Place the pineapple directly on the grill, making sure not to crowd the grill, as this can lower the heat and prevent good marks.
- Leave the pineapple undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes; resist the urge to flip it too early!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
- Lime or lemon juice (optional for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll spend around 25 minutes enjoying the deliciousness of caramelized pineapple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help the pineapple cook evenly and caramelize nicely as soon as you place it on the grill.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Next, peel the fresh pineapple and remove the core. Cut the pineapple into thick planks or wedges, about 1 inch thick. This helps them grill well without falling apart.
3. Make the Sugar Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon (if you like a bit of spice), melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir it all together until it forms a nice paste. This will be what makes your pineapple sweet and delicious!
4. Coat the Pineapple:
Take each piece of pineapple and coat it well with the brown sugar mixture. Make sure every side is covered so that they become wonderfully caramelized when grilled.
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple slices on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for those beautiful grill marks and a sweet, golden brown crust. Don’t walk away; keep an eye on them!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once they are done grilling, carefully remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. If you like, you can drizzle a little fresh lime or lemon juice on top for a zesty kick before serving. It’s best served warm!
Enjoy your delicious grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple as a sweet treat or a delightful side dish!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead?
While fresh pineapple yields the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple in a pinch. Be sure to drain it well and pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Grill them over lower heat for a shorter time to prevent them from getting too soft.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses—about 1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of sugar. Alternatively, coconut sugar works well, providing a similar caramel flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or enjoy it cold as a refreshing snack!
Can I Add Other Spices or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor kick. You can also add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top before grilling for added sweetness!
