This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet treat that will amaze your taste buds! The brown sugar gives it a nice crunch while the grilling brings out that juicy goodness.
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Just slice, sprinkle, and grill. Served warm, it’s perfect on its own or with ice cream—trust me, you’ll want to go back for seconds! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key for this recipe. Look for one that smells sweet at the base and gives slightly when pressed. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple works too! Just choose the kind packed in juice, not syrup.
Brown Sugar: You can use either light or dark brown sugar. Dark brown sugar adds a stronger molasses flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, mix one cup of white sugar with two tablespoons of molasses for a similar taste.
Cinnamon: This ingredient is optional but enhances the flavor. If you want a warm spice kick, you can also try nutmeg or ginger instead. Both add a unique twist!
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter gives an extra richness to the pineapple. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute works nicely too.
Cooking Spray or Oil: Any cooking oil can work, but I prefer a light olive oil or coconut oil. Just avoid oils with strong flavors that may distract from the pineapple’s sweetness.
How Do You Grill Pineapple to Get Perfectly Caramelized Goodness?
Grilling pineapple is super easy, but a few steps make a big difference in flavor. The aim is to caramelize the sugar while keeping the fruit juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. This ensures the pineapple cooks evenly without burning.
- Prepare your pineapple by removing the skin and cutting it into thick wedges. The thicker they are, the less likely they’ll fall apart on the grill.
- Brush the pineapple with melted butter to help the sugar stick and add flavor. Then coat with brown sugar evenly on both sides.
- Grill the pineapple for about 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t move it too soon; let it sit so it can caramelize nicely!
Lastly, don’t rush! Patience while grilling will reward you with delicious caramelized marks and soft, juicy fruit. Enjoy!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pineapple:
- 1 medium ripe pineapple
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- Cooking spray or oil (for grilling)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and around 8-10 minutes for grilling. So, in total, this delicious dessert can be ready in about 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick sweet treat or side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, which is around 350°F to 400°F. If you’re using a grill pan on the stove, get that heating up over medium heat as well. This will ensure your pineapple gets that lovely caramelized flavor!
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Grab your pineapple and carefully cut off the top and bottom to make it stable. Stand it upright and slice off the skin while removing any brown “eyes.” Now, cut the pineapple into rectangular wedges or thick slices, aiming for about 1-inch width. These will be perfect for grilling!
3. Make the Sugar Mixture:
In a bowl, combine your brown sugar and ground cinnamon (if you’re using it). Give it a good stir to mix everything together so the flavors meld.
4. Coat the Pineapple:
Take your melted butter and brush it generously over both sides of the pineapple slices. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar mixture onto both sides, pressing lightly so it sticks well. This coating will caramelize beautifully on the grill!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Before placing the pineapple on the grill, lightly spray the grates with cooking spray or brush them with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Lay the coated pineapple on the grill and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. You’ll know it’s ready when you see those lovely grill marks and the pineapple has softened a bit.
6. Serve:
Once your pineapple is grilled to perfection, carefully remove it from the grill and place it on a serving platter. If you like, garnish it with some fresh mint leaves for a pop of color. Serve it warm as a delightful dessert or a tasty side dish. Enjoy every bite of your Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple slices in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels before grilling to reduce excess moisture. Keep in mind that canned pineapple may not caramelize as effectively as fresh pineapple.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or pop them in the microwave for a short duration. They might lose some of their crispness but will still taste delicious!
Can I Substitute the Brown Sugar?
Yes! You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple sugar for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, but keep in mind that the caramelization may be less pronounced.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Grilled Pineapple?
Grilled pineapple can be served as a stand-alone dessert or paired with vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It’s also fantastic as a topping for pancakes, grilled meats, or even in fruit salads. Enjoy experimenting with your serving ideas!
