This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet and tangy treat. The brown sugar gives the pineapple a delicious crispy coating, making each bite irresistible!
Who knew fruit could taste this good? It’s perfect as a side or dessert. I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it’s an instant hit at parties!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is key because it brings amazing sweetness and juiciness. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple can work, but it may lack that smoky flavor from grilling.
Brown Sugar: I used brown sugar for its rich, caramel-like flavor. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute with coconut sugar or even white sugar, though the taste will change a bit.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds a warm, comforting spice. For a twist, you can use nutmeg or even pumpkin spice if you want a seasonal flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives just the right richness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil works great and complements the pineapple flavor nicely.
Fresh Mint Leaves: These are optional but can really freshen up the dish. If you don’t have mint, try basil for a different but tasty flavor.
How Do You Peel and Cut a Pineapple?
Pineapples can be tricky to cut, but with a few steps, it’s easy. First, cut off the top and bottom to create a steady base. Then, stand the pineapple upright and carefully slice off the skin, following its curve.
- Remove any small brown “eyes” with a paring knife to make it smooth.
- Cut into thick wedges or planks—about an inch thick works well for the grill.
- Be cautious while cutting, as the fruit can slip. A firm grip helps!
Practice makes perfect, and you’ll be a pineapple-prepping pro in no time!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to grill. So, in just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious caramelized pineapple ready to brighten up any meal or dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pineapple:
Start by getting your fresh pineapple! Cut off both the top and bottom so it stands upright. Then, carefully slice off the skin all around the pineapple. Don’t worry about a few eyes left behind; you can remove them with the knife. Once cleaned, cut the pineapple into thick wedges or planks, about an inch thick.
2. Mixing the Sugar and Cinnamon:
In a mixing bowl, add the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Give it a good mix with a spoon until everything is well combined. This sweet blend will give your pineapple a lovely caramel flavor!
3. Prepping the Grill:
Now let’s get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat. It’s a good idea to brush the grill grates with a little oil to prevent the pineapple from sticking while grilling.
4. Coating the Pineapple:
Take the melted butter and brush it generously on all sides of the pineapple pieces. Next, sprinkle that delicious brown sugar mixture over the pineapple, making sure to cover all sides. Each piece should be coated nicely!
5. Grilling the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple on the hot grill and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side. You want to see beautiful grill marks and the sugar to caramelize. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. If you like, you can garnish the warm pineapple with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor!
7. Serving Up:
Now it’s time to enjoy your creation! Serve the grilled caramelized pineapple warm, either as a delightful dessert or a unique and tasty side dish. Enjoy every sweet bite!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple offers the best texture and flavor, you can use canned pineapple if necessary. Choose canned pineapple in juice, not syrup, for a healthier option. Just make sure to drain it well and pat it dry before grilling to avoid excess moisture that can prevent proper caramelization.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can make a simple substitute by combining white granulated sugar with molasses. For every cup of brown sugar you need, mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of molasses. For this recipe, you would use about 1/4 to 1/2 tablespoon of molasses mixed with regular sugar.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can be enjoyed cold as a snack, added to salads, or even blended into smoothies for a tropical flavor boost!
Can I Add Other Spices or Flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. You could also brush the pineapple with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness before grilling. Enjoy your culinary creativity!
