This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a tasty treat! The sweet brown sugar melts into the juicy pineapple, giving it a golden, sticky glaze that’s hard to resist.
Every bite tastes like a sunny day! I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. Trust me, this simple dessert is sure to impress your friends and family. 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is crucial for this recipe. Look for one that has a sweet smell at the base and feels slightly soft when pressed. If fresh pineapple is hard to find, canned pineapple rings can work too, though they won’t have the same texture.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a deep sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. Coconut sugar is another great alternative for a different flavor profile.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best because it allows you to control the saltiness. However, for a dairy-free option, you can substitute with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Both will still give that rich flavor.
Ground Cinnamon: While optional, cinnamon adds warmth to the dish. If you don’t have it, you could try nutmeg or even a hint of ginger for a different twist.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint is lovely for garnish, adding a pop of color and flavor. If you don’t have mint, feel free to skip it or use another herb like basil for an interesting change!
How Do I Grill Pineapple without Losing Its Shape?
Grilling pineapple can be tricky, but with proper cutting and preparation, you’ll get perfect results! Start by slicing the pineapple into thick pieces, about 1/2 inch. Thick slices hold up better on the grill.
- First, trim off the top and bottom for stability. This makes it easier to peel the skin off and cut even slices.
- For even grilling, apply the brown sugar mixture generously to both sides of each slice. This not only adds flavor but helps in achieving a nice caramelized exterior.
- Finally, make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat. This ensures the sugar caramelizes quickly without burning. Grill each side for 3-4 minutes until you see those beautiful grill marks.
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
For the Caramelizing Mixture:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes total, including prep and grilling time. You’ll spend a few minutes slicing the pineapple and mixing the caramelizing mixture, followed by about 8 minutes on the grill. It’s a quick way to enjoy a delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pineapple:
First, grab your ripe pineapple. Cut off the top and bottom to create a flat base, which makes it easier to stand. Now, stand the pineapple upright and carefully slice off the skin around it. Make sure to remove any little brown eyes you see sticking out to give it a neat look.
2. Slicing the Pineapple:
Next, cut the peeled pineapple into thick slices that are about 1/2 inch thick. These should be sturdy enough to stay intact when grilled. Lay them on your cutting board and get ready for the next step!
3. Mixing the Caramelizing Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, ground cinnamon (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s well combined—this will be the tasty caramelizing coating for your pineapple.
4. Preheating the Grill:
Go ahead and preheat your grill to medium heat. This will help get those beautiful grill marks on your pineapple and caramelize the sugar perfectly.
5. Coating the Pineapple Slices:
Take your slices of pineapple and brush both sides with the brown sugar mixture. Make sure each slice is well coated so it caramelizes nicely while grilling. You want that sweet goodness in every bite!
6. Grilling the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the coated pineapple slices on the grill and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for lovely grill marks and a golden-brown color from the caramelized sugar.
7. Cooling and Serving:
Once done grilling, carefully take the pineapple slices off the grill and let them cool for a minute. They’ll be hot! When ready, plate them up and garnish with fresh mint leaves if you want to add a lively touch. Serve warm as a delicious dessert or a sweet side dish. Enjoy your caramelized pineapple!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sugar?
Absolutely! If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with regular white sugar or even coconut sugar. While the flavor might change slightly, it will still caramelize nicely!
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No grill? No problem! You can achieve similar results by using a grill pan on the stovetop or baking the pineapple slices in the oven. If using the oven, place them on a baking sheet and broil for about 5-7 minutes, turning halfway through for even caramelization.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat them gently on the grill or stovetop to bring back that delicious caramelized flavor!
Can I Add Other Flavors or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding a splash of vanilla extract to the brown sugar mixture, or try sprinkling some chopped nuts for added crunch. You can also serve grilled pineapple with ice cream or yogurt for an extra treat!
