This easy grilled pineapple is a fun treat! With sweet, caramelized brown sugar, it turns slices of pineapple into a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any BBQ.
I love how the grill adds a touch of smokiness to the sweet fruit. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with ice cream for an extra treat. You can never have too much pineapple, right? 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is the star here! Look for one that’s firm and fragrant. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple slices work in a pinch, though they may lack the same texture and flavor.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds that delicious caramel flavor. You can substitute it with coconut sugar for a slightly different taste or even use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses if you’re in a bind.
Butter: Butter gives richness to the caramel mixture. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute will work just fine and add an interesting flavor.
Cinnamon: This is optional but makes the dish feel cozy. For a unique twist, try adding nutmeg or allspice. You can skip it if you prefer a straightforward pineapple flavor.
How Do You Grill Pineapple Without It Sticking?
Grilling pineapple can be simple if you keep a few tips in mind. To prevent the fruit from sticking, make sure your grill grates are clean. Preheat your grill adequately to a medium-high temperature before cooking.
- Brush the grill grates with oil or a little leftover melted butter before placing the pineapple on them.
- Don’t move the pineapple slices too soon; let them develop those attractive grill marks, which makes it easier to turn.
- Consider using a grill basket or skewers for smaller slices—this helps keep everything in place!
How to Make Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to grill, totaling around 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the pineapple gets those lovely grill marks and caramelizes nicely.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Carefully cut the pineapple into 1/2-inch thick slices, making sure to remove the skin and core. If you want, you can trim off the ends to make a flat base for easier grilling.
3. Make the Caramelized Mixture:
In a small saucepan set over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar and ground cinnamon (if you’re using it). Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes until the sugar dissolves and it becomes bubbly and fragrant.
4. Brush the Pineapple:
Using a brush, generously apply the caramelized brown sugar mixture onto the pineapple slices. Make sure to save some of the mixture for drizzling later!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple slices on the hot grill. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes. You’re looking for those nice grill marks and heated-through pineapple!
6. Drizzle and Serve:
Once off the grill, drizzle the remaining caramelized mixture over the warm slices. Serve the grilled pineapple immediately with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy this tasty and refreshing dessert!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
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 to prevent excess moisture on the grill.
What If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar? Can I Substitute It?
Absolutely! You can substitute brown sugar with an equal amount of white sugar mixed with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar) for a similar flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar or maple syrup can also work well!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Butter?
Yes, you can use a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. This will still give you that caramelized effect while keeping it dairy-free!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the grill or in a microwave for a few seconds. They can also be delicious cold as a snack or in a salad!
