Grilled pineapple is such a treat! Sweet and juicy, it gets a lovely smoky flavor from the grill. Top it off with coconut cinnamon whipped cream for an extra yummy touch!
Every bite feels like a sunny vacation. Plus, the whipped cream is super easy to make—just mix it up and you’re ready to go! 🍍😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is the star here. Look for ripe ones with a sweet scent. If pineapple isn’t available, you could try peaches or mangoes for a different flavor.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a rich sweetness. If you don’t have it, white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for each cup of white sugar) can work well.
Coconut Cream: Chilled coconut cream creates a luxurious whipped topping. You could also use heavy whipping cream for a non-vegan option or dairy-free whipped cream for a plant-based choice.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds a nice pop of freshness. If you don’t have it, you can skip it, or use a sprinkle of dried mint instead. A light dusting of lime zest can also brighten the dish!
How Can I Get the Perfect Grill Marks on My Pineapple?
Grilling pineapple is pretty straightforward, but getting those perfect grill marks is all about technique. Start with a clean, hot grill. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high, which helps caramelize the sugars in the pineapple.
- Apply the cinnamon and brown sugar to both sides of the pineapple for a tasty glaze.
- Place the rings directly on the grill. Avoid moving them around for the first 3-4 minutes!
- After the first side is done, flip them carefully. Cook for another 3-4 minutes to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
Just remember not to overcrowd the grill; give each piece some space for even cooking. Happy grilling!
How to Make Grilled Pineapple With Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut cream, chilled
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of total time. You’ll spend around 5 minutes getting everything ready and about 10 minutes grilling and whipping up the cream. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, grab a small bowl and mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined. Take the pineapple rings and sprinkle this sweet spice mixture generously over both sides of each ring. This will add a lovely caramelized flavor when grilled!
2. Grill the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to cook the pineapple! Place the coated pineapple rings directly on the grill. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice grill marks and a little caramelization. Once they’re done, carefully remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly.
3. Make the Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
While the pineapple cools, let’s make the whipped cream. Open the can of chilled coconut cream—be sure to only scoop out the solid part, leaving the liquid behind. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer on medium speed to whip the coconut cream until it becomes fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until everything is nicely combined and creamy.
4. Serve:
It’s almost time to enjoy! Take your serving plate and arrange the grilled pineapple rings on it. Top each warm ring with a generous dollop of your coconut cinnamon whipped cream. Feel free to be a little generous—it makes everything better!
5. Garnish:
For a special touch, add some fresh mint leaves on top as a garnish. And there you have it! Serve your grilled pineapple dessert immediately while it’s still warm and enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but it’s best to choose pineapple rings packed in juice rather than syrup for a fresher flavor. Drain the canned pineapple well and pat dry before grilling to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent proper caramelization.
Can I Substitute Another Type of Cream?
Absolutely! If you don’t have coconut cream, you can use heavy whipping cream or a dairy-free alternative like almond or soy cream. Just follow the same whipping steps, but note that the flavor will change slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple and whipped cream separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat the pineapple, warm it briefly on the grill or in a pan before serving. However, the whipped cream is best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Add Other Toppings or Flavors to the Whipped Cream?
Of course! You can customize the whipped cream by adding cocoa powder for a chocolate twist, or experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut. Just remember to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar based on your additions.
