Get ready for a sweet treat with this easy grilled pineapple! The juicy slices are cooked until golden and drizzled with caramelized brown sugar for a lovely finish. Yum!
It’s like a mini tropical getaway on your plate! I love to serve this with vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch. You might just find yourself craving it every week! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Choose a ripe, fresh pineapple for the best flavor. You could use canned pineapple rings in a pinch, but grilling fresh gives a much nicer texture and taste.
Brown Sugar: This is essential for the caramelization. If you’re out, you can substitute with coconut sugar or white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses for a similar taste.
Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter to control the salt level. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut oil works great, adding a nice tropical flavor.
Cinnamon: This is optional, but it does add lovely warmth. If you’re not a cinnamon fan, you can skip it or try nutmeg or ginger for a different twist.
Vanilla Ice Cream: While vanilla pairs well, you can use any favorite flavor like coconut or caramel-filled ice cream for a change.
How Do I Get Perfect Grill Marks on My Pineapple?
Getting those beautiful grill marks on pineapple is all about temperature and timing. Here’s how to achieve them:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. Too hot and your pineapple burns; too low, and it won’t caramelize.
- Brush both sides generously with the brown sugar mixture. This not only prevents sticking but also enhances caramelization.
- Place the pineapple slices on the grill without overcrowding. This allows each slice to cook evenly.
- Leave them undisturbed for the first 3-4 minutes for strong grill marks, then flip and repeat.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy perfectly caramelized, beautifully marked pineapple slices every time!
How to Make Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream for serving
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 8 minutes to grill, so you’ll be enjoying this delicious dessert in about 20 minutes total. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a summer treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This ensures that the pineapple cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks
2. Mix the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon (if you’re using it). Stir well until everything is nicely mixed together.
3. Brush the Pineapple:
Take the pineapple slices and brush them generously with the brown sugar mixture on both sides. Make sure some of the mixture sticks to the pineapple as this is what will caramelize and create that delicious flavor!
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Once your grill is hot, place the pineapple slices onto it. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until you see grill marks. This adds flavor and makes them look great!
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the pineapple slices over and grill for another 3-4 minutes. You can brush them with more of the brown sugar mixture if you like to enhance the caramelization. Cook until they’re caramelized and have nice grill marks.
6. Cool and Serve:
After grilling, remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Don’t forget to drizzle any remaining caramelized juices from the grill over the ice cream for extra sweetness!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you want to make it look even prettier, garnish with fresh mint leaves. Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful grilled pineapple treat!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
While fresh pineapple yields the best flavor, you can use canned pineapple slices if needed. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture on the grill, which can prevent caramelization.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness Level?
If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of brown sugar to 2 tablespoons or try using a sugar substitute that caramelizes well, such as coconut sugar. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a splash of lime juice over the grilled pineapple just before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds to warm up before serving again.
Can I Add Other Spices to the Brown Sugar Mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick. Just mix them in with the brown sugar and butter to suit your taste!
