This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet treat that’s hard to resist! The brown sugar melts and creates a yummy glaze on the juicy pineapple slices.
Every bite of this fruit is like a little burst of sunshine! I love to serve it as a fun dessert or even on top of some ice cream—so easy and totally delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Use a ripe pineapple for the best sweetness. Look for one that smells fragrant and has a slight give when pressed. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple can work, but it’ll be softer.
Brown Sugar: I prefer light brown sugar for its milder flavor, but dark brown sugar adds a richer taste. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can mix white sugar with a bit of molasses, about 1 tablespoon per cup of white sugar.
Butter: Melted butter gives the mixture a great flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil is a fantastic substitute that adds a nice hint of flavor.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon enhances the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully. If you don’t have it on hand, trying out nutmeg or pumpkin spice can add a different twist.
How Do You Get the Perfect Grill Marks on Pineapple?
Getting those perfect grill marks requires some attention to detail. First, make sure your grill is hot enough. Preheating gives a nice sear to the sugar, creating that lovely caramelization.
- Cut the pineapple into thick slices (1 inch) to prevent it from falling apart on the grill.
- Brush both sides of the pineapple slices generously with the brown sugar mixture for optimal caramelization.
- Place the pineapple on the grill and don’t flip it too soon. Let it sit for about 3-4 minutes on each side for those beautiful grill marks.
Remember, patience is key; too much movement can stop the caramel from setting properly! Enjoy your grilled pineapple treat!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 8-10 minutes to grill. In no time, you’ll be enjoying sweet, caramelized pineapple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your pineapple gets that perfect caramelization!
2. Slicing the Pineapple:
Take your ripe pineapple and carefully cut off both ends. Then, slice it into long rectangular pieces, each about 1 inch thick. These shapes will grill nicely and make for beautiful presentation.
3. Making the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until it forms a nice paste—you want it to stick to the pineapple!
4. Coating the Pineapple:
Generously brush both sides of the pineapple slices with the brown sugar mixture. Make sure they’re well coated for that lovely caramelization when grilled.
5. Grilling the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple slices on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when you see those charming grill marks and the sugar has turned a lovely caramel color.
6. Cooling and Garnishing:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. If you’d like, you can add some fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor before serving.
7. Serving:
Serve the grilled pineapple warm, either by itself as a tasty dessert or as a delightful topping for ice cream or yogurt. Enjoy your caramelized treat!
Can I Use Other Sweeteners Instead of Brown Sugar?
Absolutely! You can substitute brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or even coconut sugar. Just keep in mind that the consistency might vary slightly, so adjust the amount you use based on your sweetness preference. If using a liquid sweetener like honey, reduce the melted butter slightly to balance the moisture.
How Can I Make This with a Pre-Cut Pineapple?
If you have pre-cut pineapple, you can definitely still make this recipe! Just skip the slicing step and coat the pieces with the brown sugar mixture before grilling. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until caramelized, as the smaller pieces may grill quicker.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the grill for a minute or two, or microwave them until warmed through. They make a great addition to smoothies or fruit salads!
Can I Use A Different Grill Method?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or even broil them in the oven. If using the broiler, place the pineapple slices on a baking sheet and broil for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until caramelized and golden.
