This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet treat you won’t forget! The juicy pineapple gets a tasty caramel coating that makes it perfectly sweet and smoky.
I love throwing these on the grill for a fun dessert. Just a scoop of ice cream on top, and you have an easy, yummy dish! Who knew fruit could taste this good? 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple makes all the difference! Look for one with a sweet aroma and slightly soft at the stem end. If you’re not a fan of pineapple, you can try peaches or bananas as tasty alternatives.
Brown Sugar: This ingredient is key for caramelization. If you’re out of brown sugar, use granulated sugar and add a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon for every cup) to give it a similar flavor. Coconut sugar also works well for a unique twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter is great here since it lets the sweetness shine. You can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option. It adds a lovely tropical flavor too!
Cinnamon: While optional, it enhances the warm flavor. You can substitute it with nutmeg or omit it entirely if you prefer a more straightforward taste.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have mint, basil can be an interesting substitute to try!
How Do I Ensure the Pineapple Gets Perfectly Caramelized?
The key to caramelizing the pineapple is using the right heat and timing. You want the grill to be hot enough to create those beautiful grill marks and caramelize the sugar without burning it.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the pineapple on it. This helps achieve a nice char quickly.
- Brush the sugar mixture generously, but don’t overdo it – too much can lead to burning.
- Watch the clock! Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes, monitoring closely so it doesn’t burn.
Letting it cool slightly before serving allows the flavors to settle in. Happy grilling!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cut into thick slices or planks
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 8-10 minutes for grilling. In total, you can expect to spend around 20 minutes making this sweet and delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is super important because you want the grill to be hot enough to caramelize the brown sugar and give your pineapple those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Stir it well until everything is combined into a nice thick paste. This delicious mixture will add a sweet glaze to your pineapple!
3. Coat the Pineapple:
Take your pineapple slices and brush the brown sugar mixture generously on both sides. Make sure to coat them well so they get beautifully caramelized on the grill.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Carefully place the pineapple slices on the preheated grill. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for those lovely grill marks and a shiny golden-brown glaze from the caramelized sugar!
5. Cool and Serve:
Once your pineapple is perfectly grilled, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm, and if you like, garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch. You can enjoy this treat on its own or as a tasty topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt.
Enjoy your delicious grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple!
Can I Use Other Types of Sugar for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! While brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor, you can substitute it with white sugar or coconut sugar. If you use white sugar, the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still caramelize well. Just remember that coconut sugar has a different sweetness level, so you may want to adjust the quantity to taste.
How Do I Grill Pineapple Without a Grill?
If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop. Heat the pan over medium-high heat and follow the same steps as the recipe. Alternatively, you can broil the pineapple in the oven by placing it on a baking sheet and cooking it on the top rack for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until caramelized.
Can I Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the brown sugar mixture a day ahead of time. Just mix the ingredients as instructed, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and let it come to room temperature before using. This makes for quick grilling when you’re ready!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
If you have leftovers, allow the pineapple to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last about 3-4 days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that warm, caramelized flavor again!
