This easy grilled pineapple is a tasty treat! With juicy slices coated in sweet brown sugar, they get a little caramelized, making them even yummier on the grill.
Whenever I make this, I can’t resist having a slice straight off the grill. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and warm! Serve it with ice cream for a fun dessert. 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is a must for this recipe! When selecting, choose one that feels slightly soft at the base and has a sweet smell. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple slices can work; just make sure to drain them well.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds caramel flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of sugar) for a similar taste and moisture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best here to control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, try coconut oil for a lovely tropical flavor that fits well with the pineapple.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is optional but delicious! If you’re not a fan, consider using nutmeg or even ginger for a different spice dimension.
How Do You Achieve Perfect Grilled Pineapple?
Grilling pineapple is simple but requires a bit of technique to get it just right. The key is to make sure your grill is preheated, so you get nice caramelization on the outside while keeping the fruit juicy inside.
- Preheat the grill: Ensure it’s at medium heat for even cooking.
- Prepare the sugar mixture: Mix brown sugar, melted butter, and optional cinnamon well. This helps create a caramelized crust.
- Generously brush both sides of the pineapple: Don’t skimp—this adds flavor and helps with caramelization.
- Cook and watch closely: Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, but keep an eye on it. The key signs are grill marks and a tender texture.
- Drizzle warm: This final touch of the brown sugar mixture will enhance the flavor.
Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
- Honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of grilling time. So in total, you’re looking at about 20 minutes to make this delicious dessert. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a warm day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This is important because you want the grill to be hot enough to caramelize the sugar on your pineapple slices.
2. Make the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This tasty mixture will help create that delicious caramelized flavor on your pineapple.
3. Prepare the Pineapple:
Brush both sides of each pineapple slice generously with the brown sugar mixture. Make sure every part is coated well; this ensures a nice caramelization when you grill it!
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Once your grill is ready, place the pineapple slices on it. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for those lovely grill marks and a tender texture. It’ll smell amazing while they cook!
5. Add Extra Flavor:
After removing the pineapple from the grill, drizzle any remaining brown sugar mixture over the warm slices to enhance the flavor even more.Â
6. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the grilled pineapple warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if you’d like. Enjoy your sweet and delightful treat!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?
While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use canned pineapple in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well, as excess moisture can prevent caramelization. Also, adjust the grilling time, as canned pineapple slices may need less time on the grill—about 2-3 minutes on each side should be sufficient.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing regular granulated sugar with a little molasses. For 1 cup of brown sugar, mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses. Alternatively, you can use coconut sugar for a similar flavor and texture, though it may have a slightly different taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover grilled pineapple, let it cool down to room temperature before storing it. Place the slices in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold, or reheat them briefly on a grill or in a pan to warm them up before serving again.
Can I Add Other Fruits to the Grill?
Absolutely! Grilled fruit pairs beautifully with pineapple. Consider adding sliced peaches, bananas, or mangoes to the grill. Just keep in mind that different fruits may cook at different rates, so cut them into similar-sized pieces and keep an eye on them as they grill. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite fruits!
