This grilled pineapple is a tasty treat! Sweet, juicy slices are cooked until caramelized, and they pair perfectly with fluffy coconut cinnamon whipped cream. Yum!
Honestly, the combination is a summer party must-have! I often serve it at BBQs, and it always gets a thumbs up. Who can resist that sweet and creamy goodness? 🍍☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Look for a ripe pineapple with a sweet aroma. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple slices in juice (not syrup) can work, but they may not grill as well.
Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely depth of sweetness. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar mixed with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of white sugar) to get a similar flavor.
Coconut Cream: Chilling coconut cream gives it that lovely whipped texture. If you can’t find coconut cream, you can use full-fat coconut milk, but make sure to chill it well. It won’t whip as much, but it’ll still taste great.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds a refreshing touch. If you don’t have fresh mint, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can be a fun substitute to enhance the coconut flavor.
How Do I Get Perfect Grill Marks on Pineapple?
Getting those perfect grill marks is all about heat control and timing. Here are some tips for grilling pineapple that will help you achieve great results:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high; this helps create those nice charred grill marks without overcooking the fruit.
- Cut your pineapple into thick slices (around 1 inch). Thin slices might fall apart on the grill.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar-cinnamon mix generously on both sides of each slice. This caramelizes nicely when grilling.
- Once on the grill, leave the slices untouched for about 3-4 minutes. Avoid flipping too soon to let those grill marks develop.
- Check for grill marks and flip them carefully with tongs. Grill for another 3-4 minutes on the other side.
How to Make Grilled Pineapple With Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup coconut cream (chilled)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of cinnamon
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to grill, giving you a total of around 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help give the pineapple those beautiful grill marks and a nice caramelization.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Next, cut the pineapple into thick slices, about 1 inch thick. Be sure to remove the core from each slice; this will make them easier to eat!
3. Season the Pineapple:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this sweet mixture evenly over both sides of each pineapple slice—this is going to add great flavor when grilled!
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the prepared pineapple slices on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until you see those lovely grill marks and the pineapple becomes slightly caramelized.
5. Make the Whipped Cream:
While the pineapple is grilling, it’s time to prepare your coconut cinnamon whipped cream. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chilled coconut cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon. Using an electric mixer, whip the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy. Yum!
6. Assemble and Serve:
Once the pineapple is done grilling, carefully remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Serve the warm grilled pineapple slices on a plate with a generous dollop of the delicious coconut cinnamon whipped cream on top. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves for a lovely garnish.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy the tropical flavors of your grilled pineapple with a sweet, creamy topping. Perfect for a summer treat or anytime you crave something delicious!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple has the best texture and flavor for grilling, you can use canned pineapple slices if needed. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture on the grill. Keep in mind that canned pineapple might not get as caramelized as fresh, but it will still taste delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Cream?
If you don’t have coconut cream on hand, you can substitute it with heavy whipping cream or a dairy-free cream alternative like almond or soy cream. Just note that the flavor and consistency will vary slightly. For a coconut flavor with dairy, add a bit of coconut extract to your heavy cream.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Allow the grilled pineapple to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the grill or in a microwave, but it’s also delicious cold in salads or smoothies!
Can I Make the Whipped Cream Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coconut cinnamon whipped cream a few hours in advance. Just keep it in the fridge in an airtight container. Give it a quick whip before serving to restore its fluffy texture, especially if it has settled a bit.
