This easy grilled pineapple is a fun and tasty treat! Slices of sweet pineapple are grilled until they are warm and juicy, then sprinkled with caramelized brown sugar for extra yumminess.
I love serving this at summer BBQs! It’s simple to make and brings a smile to everyone’s face. Just remember, you might want to watch out for sticky fingers! 🍍😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Use a ripe, fresh pineapple for the best sweetness and flavor. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple can work, but it may not have the same texture on the grill.
Brown Sugar: The brown sugar adds a rich caramel flavor. If you need a substitute, you can use coconut sugar or even white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to mimic that rich taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, but you can swap it with coconut oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. It will add a nice subtle flavor, too!
Cinnamon: This ingredient is optional but suggests a warm spice. If you don’t have it, nutmeg or even a dash of vanilla extract can be a nice touch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: While vanilla is a classic, any ice cream flavor you love works! Try coconut or caramel for an extra treat. For a dairy-free option, sorbet can be refreshing!
How Do I Grill Pineapple Without It Sticking?
Grilling pineapple can sometimes lead to sticking, but there are a couple of easy ways to avoid it:
- First, make sure to preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This helps create those lovely grill marks.
- Always brush your grill grates with a little oil before placing the pineapple slices on. This creates a non-stick barrier.
- Cutting the pineapple into thick slices (about 3/4 inch) helps prevent them from falling apart on the grill.
By following these tips, you’ll flip those slices with ease while getting a beautiful char on them! Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- Fresh mint (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8-10 minutes to cook on the grill. With just a little bit of time, you’ll have a warm, sweet treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to cook the pineapple quickly and gives it those attractive grill marks!
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
While the grill is heating up, cut the pineapple into thick slices, about 3/4 inch thick. Be sure to remove the core from each slice, as it can be tough and hard to eat.
3. Make the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar and butter. If you’d like to add a touch of spice, mix in the cinnamon. Heat the mixture over low-medium heat, stirring until the sugar has melted and everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Prepare the Grill:
To keep things from sticking, brush the grill grates lightly with a bit of oil. This will help the pineapple slices cook perfectly without leaving half of them on the grill!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when you see beautiful grill marks and the pineapple is heated through.
6. Add the Caramel Sauce:
Once the pineapple is done grilling, carefully remove it from the grill. Brush the warm, caramelized brown sugar mixture over the top of each slice. This gives each piece a sweet, sticky finish that’s absolutely delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your warm grilled pineapple slices with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
You can use canned pineapple, but fresh pineapple gives the best texture and flavor! If you use canned, be sure to drain it well and pat it dry with paper towels before grilling to prevent excess moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
No worries! You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses at a ratio of 1 tablespoon of molasses to each cup of white sugar. Alternatively, you can use coconut sugar or honey for a different flavor profile!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can quickly grill or microwave it for a few seconds to warm it up again and get that caramelized flavor back.
Can I Add Other Fruits?
Absolutely! You can grill other fruits like peaches, plums, or mangoes alongside the pineapple. Just make sure to cut them into similar thickness to ensure even grilling. Adjust the cooking time if necessary, as some fruits may cook faster!
