This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat that’s perfect for summer! The brown sugar gives the pineapple a lovely golden glaze as it cooks on the grill.
Honestly, caramelized pineapple tastes like sunshine on a plate! I love serving it with ice cream or just snacking on it straight off the grill. It’s a fruity party for your taste buds! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is essential for sweetness. Look for one that’s golden and has a sweet smell at the base. If you can’t find fresh pineapple, canned pineapple rings can work, although they may not grill as nicely.
Brown Sugar: This adds the caramel-like flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a little molasses to mimic the taste. Honey or maple syrup can also be substituted but will create a different flavor profile.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness better. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Cinnamon & Vanilla Extract: Both are optional, but they enhance the flavor. If you don’t have cinnamon, nutmeg or ginger powder can add warmth. For vanilla, consider almond extract for a different twist.
Cooking Spray: This helps prevent sticking. If you prefer a more natural option, just brush on more melted butter when grilling.
How Do You Prepare Pineapple for Grilling?
Preparing your pineapple correctly is crucial for the best grilling results. Start by peeling the skin with a sharp knife, ensuring you remove all eyes (the brown spots). Then, cut it into thick slices or spears, about 1 inch thick. This thickness prevents them from falling apart on the grill and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Take your time peeling and cutting – uneven pieces can grill differently.
- Consider soaking the skewers in water if you’re making pineapple kabobs; this prevents burning.
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Cooking spray or more melted butter for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 8-10 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll need about 20 minutes to enjoy this sweet treat! It’s quick and perfect for a fun dessert or side dish at your next barbecue.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
Begin by peeling the ripe pineapple. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the skin, cutting away any “eyes” you see. Slice the pineapple into long rectangular spears or thick slices, approximately 1 inch thick. This thickness helps them hold up well on the grill.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, optional cinnamon, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until you get a smooth, paste-like consistency. This glaze will help caramelize beautifully when grilled!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Turn your grill to medium-high heat and let it warm up. If you’re using a grill pan, make sure it’s well-heated and lightly greased with cooking spray or additional melted butter. This ensures the pineapple doesn’t stick while grilling.
4. Coat the Pineapple:
Brush the brown sugar mixture all over each piece of pineapple generously. Make sure to cover all sides for a delicious, even coating. This caramelizes during grilling, giving the pineapple a wonderful flavor!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the coated pineapple pieces on the grill. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until you see lovely grill marks and the sugar has caramelized beautifully. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
6. Serve:
Once they’re grilled to perfection, carefully remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool for a moment. Serve warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. Enjoy every bite of your delicious Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple!
Can I Use a Different Sweetener Instead of Brown Sugar?
Yes, you can! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try using coconut sugar or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that maple syrup will create a slightly different texture and flavor, so adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill? Can I Use an Oven?
Absolutely! You can achieve similar results by broiling the pineapple in your oven. Preheat the broiler and place the pineapple on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Broil for about 5-6 minutes on each side, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the grill or in the microwave before serving, or enjoy it cold in salads or smoothies!
Can I Add Ingredients to the Glaze?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like nutmeg or even a splash of rum for an extra kick. Just remember to adjust the amount of sugar or butter if you’re accommodating other ingredients to keep the consistency right.
