This easy grilled pineapple is bursting with sweet flavors. The heat from the grill makes the pineapple juicy, while caramelized brown sugar adds a delightful touch of sweetness.
Honestly, grilled pineapple is like sunshine on a plate! I love serving it as a side or dessert—it’s so simple and makes everyone smile. Perfect for summer barbecues!
I just slice the pineapple, sprinkle brown sugar, and throw it on the grill. It’s quick, tasty, and a great way to enjoy fruit. Plus, who can resist that caramelized goodness? 🍍✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is key for this dish. It’s sweet and juicy, making it perfect for grilling. If fresh is not available, canned pineapple rings can work, but they may not caramelize as nicely.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a deep caramel flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with granulated sugar or coconut sugar for a slightly different taste.
Butter: I like using unsalted butter to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a similar effect.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor, but you can use vanilla bean paste or even a dash of almond extract if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Caramelized Grilled Pineapple?
Caramelizing the sugar on grilled pineapple can be a game-changer for flavor. To get that perfect caramelization, careful preparation and cooking are essential. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth. This combination will create a rich glaze.
- Brush the pineapple rings generously on both sides with the sugar mixture. This will help them caramelize beautifully.
- Grill over medium-high heat. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, checking to see the color change and grill marks. Don’t rush this; it’s worth the wait!
- Let them cool slightly before serving to set the caramel.
Enjoy a little scoop of vanilla ice cream with your grilled pineapple for an amazing treat!
Easy Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional for Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8-10 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll need around 20 minutes to whip up this sweet and juicy treat. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a dessert or a fun snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important to ensure that the pineapple grills nicely and gets those delicious char marks!
2. Make the Caramelizing Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is combined and it looks like a syrupy mixture. This will give our pineapple a sweet caramel flavor.
3. Prepare the Pineapple:
Take your pineapple rings and brush both sides with the brown sugar mixture. Make sure each ring is fully coated so that they caramelize beautifully on the grill.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the coated pineapple rings on the grill. Let them sit for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see nice grill marks and the sugar has turned golden brown and caramelized. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
5. Cool and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. To serve, place two rings on a plate, drizzle any leftover brown sugar mixture over the top, and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’d like.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’re feeling fancy, add some fresh mint leaves as a garnish. Now, dig in and enjoy your delicious grilled pineapple! It’s a treat that’s sure to please everyone!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?
Yes! If you’re short on time, canned pineapple can work, but be sure to drain it well before grilling. Canned pineapple slices are usually softer, so reduce the grilling time to about 2-3 minutes per side to avoid mushiness.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. Grilled pineapple will stay fresh for about 3 days. Reheat gently on a grill or in a pan to warm them up without losing their texture.
Can I Substitute the Brown Sugar?
Sure! If you want a different flavor, you can use coconut sugar or regular granulated sugar. For a healthier option, try using honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that these will caramelize differently and may require less grilling time.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Pineapple Besides Ice Cream?
If you’re looking for alternatives to ice cream, try serving grilled pineapple with yogurt or whipped cream for a lighter option. It also pairs beautifully with savory dishes like grilled chicken or pork for a sweet contrast!
