This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet treat that’s so easy and fun to make! When you grill the pineapple, it gets warm and juicy, with a lovely caramel glaze that you just can’t resist.
Perfect for summer BBQs or a special dessert, this dish always puts a smile on my face. Just pair it with some ice cream, and you’ll be in fruity paradise! 🍍😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is best for this recipe as it has the right balance of sweetness and acidity. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple can work, but be sure to drain it well.
Brown Sugar: The star ingredient for the caramel glaze! If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar) as a substitute.
Unsalted Butter: I prefer unsalted butter because it allows for better control of the saltiness in the dish. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil is a great alternative that adds a nice flavor.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a warm flavor to the glaze. For a unique twist, you can replace it with almond extract, which offers a delightful nutty note.
Spices: Ground cinnamon or nutmeg are great additions for extra warmth. If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick!
How Do I Prepare Pineapple for Grilling?
Preparing the pineapple properly is essential for a successful grill. Start with a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple. This will give you a stable base to work with. Then, carefully slice off the skin, making sure to remove the “eyes” (the small brown spots) as you go.
- Cut the pineapple into thick strips or wedges (about 1-inch thick). This thickness will help them hold their shape on the grill.
- After slicing, you can remove the core if you prefer, but the core is safe to eat and adds texture. It’s up to you!
- Tip: To prevent sticking, make sure your grill is well-oiled beforehand.
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ground cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to grill, making your total time around 25 minutes. It’s quick and brings a delicious, caramelized flavor to your pineapple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pineapple:
Start by carefully removing the skin and eyes of the fresh pineapple. To do this, use a sharp knife and cut off the top and bottom first, then slice down along the sides to remove the tough skin. Once it’s peeled, cut the pineapple into long strips or wedges, each about 1-inch thick. This shape will grill beautifully!
2. Making the Caramel Glaze:
In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If you’d like to add some extra flavor, sprinkle in a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg. Mix everything together until you have a nice, thick glaze that’s ready for the pineapple.
3. Preheating and Grilling:
Now it’s time to fire up your grill! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re cooking indoors, you can also use a grill pan on the stove. Once hot, take a brush or spoon and generously coat each pineapple slice with the brown sugar mixture on both sides.
4. Grilling the Pineapple:
Place the coated pineapple slices directly on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for those beautiful grill marks and a nice caramelization of the sugar. Watch carefully, as the sugar can burn if left too long!
5. Serving Your Grilled Pineapple:
Once your pineapple is perfectly grilled, remove it from the grill and set it aside to cool slightly. Serve it warm, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzled with any leftover caramel sauce from the grill. Enjoy the sweet, smoky flavor of your deliciously caramelized grilled pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple offers the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Keep in mind that canned pineapple may not caramelize as beautifully as fresh, so grilling time might need to be adjusted to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can make a quick substitute by mixing white sugar with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon molasses for every cup of white sugar). Alternatively, coconut sugar or maple syrup can work, but be aware that they may alter the flavor slightly.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy it cold as a sweet snack, or gently reheat in the microwave or on a grill for a warm treat. Just be cautious, as reheating can melt the caramel a bit more!
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Other fruits like peaches, bananas, or mangoes can be excellent additions. Just remember that cooking times may vary; softer fruits like bananas will caramelize much faster than firmer types like peaches, so keep an eye on them while grilling.
