This easy grilled pineapple is a sweet tropical treat that’s perfect for a sunny day. The caramelized brown sugar gives it a sticky, delicious finish that will make you smile!
I love serving it on top of ice cream or yogurt; it’s a simple way to bring a burst of flavor to your dessert. Plus, who can resist warm, juicy pineapple? Yum! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is the star here! Make sure it’s ripe for the best flavor. If fresh is not available, you can use canned pineapple rings, though fresh offers a better texture and taste.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor. If you’re out, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to mimic brown sugar, or coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the best control over flavor. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version, or even use a plant-based butter if you’re vegan.
Cinnamon: This is optional but adds warmth. If you’re not a cinnamon fan, feel free to leave it out or try nutmeg for a different flavor.
Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm pineapple, but you could use coconut or dairy-free ice cream for a fun twist!
How Do You Grill Pineapple Without Burning It?
Grilling pineapple to perfection is all about timing and temperature. Too high may char the sugar too fast, while too low won’t caramelize enough. Follow these steps to ensure your pineapple comes out just right:
- Start with a preheated grill at medium-high. This is key for getting nice grill marks.
- Brush your pineapple with the sugar mixture before grilling to create a rich flavor.
- Grill rings for 3-4 minutes per side, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning. Look for a nice golden hue.
- Let the grilled pineapple rest for a minute; this helps the juices settle back in.
How to Make Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
- Honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus around 8 minutes for grilling. You can have everything ready in just 18 minutes! Perfect for a quick and tasty dessert or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Make sure it’s nice and hot for perfect grill marks!
2. Mixing the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until well combined. This yummy mixture will give the pineapple its caramelized flavor.
3. Preparing the Pineapple Rings:
Take each pineapple ring and brush it generously with the brown sugar mixture on both sides. Make sure each ring is well coated for that delicious caramelized finish!
4. Grilling the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the coated pineapple rings on the grill. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice grill marks and for the pineapple to become tender.
5. Resting the Pineapple:
Once grilled, carefully remove the pineapple from the grill and let it rest for about a minute. This helps it lock in the juices and flavor.
6. Serving the Grilled Pineapple:
Now comes the best part! Serve your warm grilled pineapple topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you like, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the top for extra sweetness.
7. Adding the Finishing Touch:
Before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves for a lovely touch. Now, sit back and enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple rings in a pinch. Just drain the syrup and pat them dry with paper towels before brushing with the brown sugar mixture. Keep in mind that the grilling time may be shorter, so watch them closely!
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you’re out of brown sugar, you can easily substitute with granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. For every cup of brown sugar, mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses until well combined. You can also use coconut sugar for a similar 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, simply warm them up on the grill for a minute on each side, or pop them in the microwave for a quick 20-30 seconds.
Can I Make This Recipe without a Grill?
Absolutely! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop, or even roast the pineapple rings in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Just make sure to watch for the caramelization to achieve that delicious, sweet flavor!
