This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet dream come true! With juicy pineapple slices covered in brown sugar, it gets perfectly golden on the grill.
It’s like a tropical party for your taste buds! I love serving it with ice cream or yogurt. Who can resist the combo of warm pineapple and cold cream? It’s a treat! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A fresh, ripe pineapple is key for this recipe. Look for one that’s sweet-smelling and has slightly soft spots. In a pinch, you could use canned pineapple slices. Just ensure they are packed in juice, not syrup, for better flavor.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor. Dark brown sugar has more molasses and will give a deeper flavor. You can use white sugar instead, but the caramelized result won’t be as rich.
Cinnamon: This is optional, but it adds a lovely warm flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or try other spices like nutmeg or allspice for a twist.
Lime Juice: This helps to balance the sweetness. If you don’t have fresh lime juice, lemon juice works as a substitute, though it might be a bit more tart. A splash of orange juice can also add a nice touch.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, coconut oil is a great substitute. It adds a tropical flavor that works beautifully with the pineapple.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Pineapple for Grilling?
Cutting and prepping the pineapple properly ensures even cooking and great texture. Here’s how to tackle it:
- First, slice off the top and bottom of the pineapple for stability. This way, it stands upright while you peel.
- Use a sharp knife to cut away the skin in strips, removing any brown “eyes” as you go.
- Then, slice the pineapple into thick chunks or planks, maintaining about 1/2 inch thickness. This allows for nice grill marks and caramelization.
By making thick cuts, you’ll keep the pineapple juicy and prevent it from falling apart on the grill. Happy grilling!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 whole fresh pineapple
- ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Cooking spray or oil for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for grilling, for a total of about 30 minutes. You’ll have a delicious, sweet treat ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals heat until they’re covered with a layer of ash. This gives a nice, even heat for grilling.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple, then use a sharp knife to slice off the skin. Don’t forget to remove any brown spots or “eyes” left behind. Once that’s done, cut the pineapple into thick slices (about ½ inch thick) or long rectangular planks. This shape is great for even cooking and caramelization!
3. Make the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon (if you like a little spice), melted butter, lime juice (if you want a citrusy kick), and a pinch of salt. Stir it well until everything is nicely combined.
4. Coat the Pineapple:
Take each pineapple slice and brush it generously with the brown sugar mixture. Make sure to coat all the sides so you get that yummy caramelization when grilling.
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Before placing the pineapple on the grill, lightly spray the grates with cooking spray or brush them with oil to prevent sticking. Put the coated pineapple slices on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for nice grill marks and caramelization. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pineapple is caramelized and tender, take it off the grill and let it cool for a minute. Serve warm as a delicious side dish, dessert, or drizzle it over ice cream or yogurt. Enjoy your sweet, grilled treat!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh pineapple for optimal flavor and texture, but if you must use canned, make sure to drain and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. Keep in mind that canned pineapple may not achieve the same caramelization effect and grilling time might be shorter—2-3 minutes per side should suffice.
Can I Substitute Other Sugars?
Absolutely! You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or regular granulated sugar for a different flavor profile. If substituting with granulated sugar, consider adding a bit more cinnamon for warmth, as brown sugar has a deeper flavor due to its molasses content.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the grilled pineapple slices. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge before reheating or enjoy them cold!
Can I Grill Pineapple on an Indoor Grill or Grill Pan?
Yes, you can! Just preheat your indoor grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, and follow the same instructions. If using a grill pan, lightly coat the bottom with oil to prevent sticking and achieve nice grill marks. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, just like you would on an outdoor grill.
