This easy grilled pineapple is a sweet treat! The juicy pineapple pieces are cooked until golden and topped with rich, caramelized brown sugar for a delicious twist.
Grilling brings out the natural sweetness, making it a perfect dessert or snack. I love serving it with vanilla ice cream for a lovely contrast—yum, right?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is essential for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, canned pineapple rings work in a pinch, but they won’t have the same texture. You can also try peaches or mangoes for a different take!
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. You might also try coconut sugar for a hint of nuttiness.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for controlling the sweetness. If you’re dairy-free, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative—it gives a nice flavor too!
Cinnamon: Adding ground cinnamon is optional, but it elevates the dish. If you want to switch it up, try nutmeg or allspice for a warm touch.
Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly. However, if you prefer a lighter option, whipped cream or yogurt can work nicely instead! You can also go for dairy-free ice cream if needed.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Grill Marks on Pineapple?
Getting those impressive grill marks is all about timing and heat. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat—this is essential for caramelization.
- Place the pineapple rings on the grill without crowding. Give them about 3-4 minutes to cook on one side before flipping.
- When you flip, brush on that delicious brown sugar mixture to enhance browning and sweetness.
- Don’t rush! Let each side cook until the pineapple is tender and charred. Remember, patience is key!
Letting the pineapple rest afterward helps it retain its juices and makes for a more enjoyable bite!
Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 8 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll need about 18 minutes to create this sweet and delicious dessert. Quick and easy, perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This ensures that your pineapple will grill evenly and get those lovely marks!
2. Make the Caramelized Brown Sugar Mixture:
While the grill is heating up, grab a small saucepan. Melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and stir until it’s fully dissolved. If you want a little extra flavor, sprinkle in some ground cinnamon. When it’s smooth and nicely combined, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
3. Grill the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the pineapple rings directly on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on one side, until you see beautiful grill marks and the pineapple starts to caramelize.
4. Flip and Brush On the Sugar Mixture:
Gently flip the pineapple rings over. Use a brush to spread the caramelized brown sugar mixture over the grilled side. Continue grilling for another 3-4 minutes. The goal here is to make sure the pineapple is tender and has those lovely grill marks!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the pineapple off the grill and let it rest for a minute. This helps it stay warm and juicy. When you’re ready to serve, place the grilled pineapple on a plate, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and drizzle it with any leftover caramelized brown sugar mixture. Finally, add some fresh mint leaves for a lovely garnish!
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your scrumptious grilled pineapple dessert! It’s sweet, warm, and the perfect way to celebrate any meal!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but keep in mind it may not caramelize as well as fresh pineapple due to its higher moisture content. If using canned, try to drain it well and pat the slices dry with paper towels before grilling to help achieve those nice grill marks!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat the pineapple in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through, or pop them back on the grill for a quick sear.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Butter?
Absolutely! If you want to make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Just melt the substitute in the same way as butter, and continue with the steps as usual!
What Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use granulated sugar mixed with a little molasses (about 1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of granulated sugar) to mimic the flavor of brown sugar. Alternatively, coconut sugar works well too, although it may give a slightly different taste.
