This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet treat that’s super easy to make. Just a few slices of pineapple, some brown sugar, and a grill will do the trick!
There’s just something magical about caramelized pineapple. It’s like a mini tropical vacation on a plate! I love serving it with ice cream—squeal-worthy deliciousness! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. Look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a sweet aroma. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple in juice can work, but the texture will be different.
Brown Sugar: This is essential for caramelization and adds a rich sweetness. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar mixed with molasses (1 tablespoon molasses for each cup of sugar) or even coconut sugar for a different twist.
Unsalted Butter: The melted butter gives the sugar a nice stickiness. You can substitute with coconut oil or a non-dairy butter if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant.
Cinnamon: Although optional, cinnamon adds a warm flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out or substitute with nutmeg or vanilla extract for a different taste.
Cooking Spray or Additional Butter: Don’t skip this step! It’s important to prevent sticking. If you prefer, you can use a high smoke-point oil like canola or avocado oil instead.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Grilled Pineapple?
Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sweetness, but getting that caramelization just right can be tricky. Start by ensuring your grill is well-preheated; this helps the sugars caramelize beautifully. Here are some tips:
- Slice the pineapple thickly, about 1-inch, for the best results. Thinner slices may fall apart on the grill.
- Generously coat both sides of the pineapple with the brown sugar mixture before grilling. This will help form a caramelized crust.
- Grill on medium-high heat to get those nice grill marks without burning the sugar.
- Keep an eye on the pineapple as it cooks—3-4 minutes per side is ideal, but adjust as needed based on your grill.
Let the grilled pineapple rest for a minute before serving. This helps lock in those juices! Enjoy it warm for a delightful treat or a side dish.
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
For the Mixture:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For Grilling:
- Cooking spray or additional butter for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and 8-10 minutes to grill. So, you’ll be enjoying your sweet treat in about 30 minutes overall. It’s a quick and easy dessert that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
Start by cutting off the top and bottom of the pineapple to create flat surfaces. Stand the pineapple upright and carefully slice off the skin, making sure to remove all the little “eyes.” Once the skin is off, cut the pineapple into thick slices or wedges, about 1-inch thick. These will grill beautifully!
2. Make the Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. If you like a little spice, add the ground cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This will be the sweet coating for your pineapple!
3. Coat the Pineapple:
Take the pineapple slices and generously brush or spread the brown sugar mixture onto both sides. Make sure each slice is nicely coated for that delicious caramelized flavor!
4. Preheat the Grill:
Set your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, lightly spray it with cooking spray or brush with some butter to prevent the pineapple from sticking. It’s all about that nice, easy grilling!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Carefully place the pineapple slices on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want to see lovely grill marks and the sugar should start to caramelize, giving it that yummy sweetness.
6. Serve:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and let it rest for about a minute. Serve it warm and feel free to sprinkle a bit more cinnamon on top or even serve it with ice cream! It also makes a great side for savory dishes. Enjoy your deliciously sweet and smoky Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but it won’t have the same fresh flavor and texture. If you do choose canned, make sure to drain it well and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture. You may need to reduce the grilling time since canned pineapple is already soft.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Brown Sugar?
Absolutely! You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar or coconut sugar, although the flavor may differ slightly. For a healthier option, consider using honey or a sugar substitute that can withstand grilling, but note that it may caramelize differently.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pineapple in a frying pan over medium heat for a couple of minutes until warmed through, or you can briefly microwave it.
What Can I Pair With Grilled Pineapple?
Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with ice cream, yogurt, or grilled meats like chicken and pork. You can also chop it up and add it to fruit salads or use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles!
