This sweet grilled pineapple is a sunny treat that will brighten your day! The juicy, caramelized edges bring out all the tropical flavors, making it a perfect summer dessert.
The coconut cinnamon whipped cream adds a delightful twist! I could literally scoop that tasty cream on everything—or just eat it by the spoonful! 🍍😄
Whenever I make this, I feel like I’m on a beach vacation. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for impressing friends or family. Give it a try; you’ll love it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is crucial for sweetness. If fresh isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple rings in juice, but they might be less juicy after grilling.
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich caramel flavor. If you’re out, use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses, or substitute with coconut sugar for a different yet delicious taste.
Coconut Cream: Chilled coconut cream gives that fluffy texture. If you want a lighter option, whipped heavy cream can work, but adjust the sugar to taste since it’s less sweet.
Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth. If you’re looking for a twist, try cardamom or nutmeg instead for a different flavor profile.
Mint Leaves: Not just for looks, they add freshness! If you don’t have mint, consider a sprinkle of grated lime zest or a few berries for garnish instead.
How Can I Grill Pineapple to Get Perfect Caramelization?
Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sweetness and enhances flavors. Here are tips to ensure you achieve perfect caramelization:
- Start with medium heat on your grill; too hot can burn the fruit.
- Make sure the grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
- Evenly coat both sides of the rings with the cinnamon sugar mixture. The sugar will help caramelize during grilling.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, but keep an eye on them! You want nice grill marks and a slight bubbling action.
- Let the grilled rings cool slightly before serving, as they continue to cook and set while resting.
By following these tips, you’ll get that mouth-watering caramel color and flavor on your grilled pineapple!
Grilled Pineapple With Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For The Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup coconut cream (chilled)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert will take about 15 minutes of prep time and another 8 minutes for grilling, making it a quick and tropical treat! Get ready to enjoy a total of around 25 minutes in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium heat. This prepares a nice hot surface for grilling the pineapple, ensuring those beautiful grill marks.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. This sweet and spicy mix will be sprinkled on the pineapple to give it an amazing flavor.
3. Coat the Pineapple Rings:
Take your pineapple rings and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over both sides, making sure they are nicely coated. Every bite of this grilled goodness will be packed with flavor!
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the coated pineapple rings on the hot grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until you see beautiful grill marks and the pineapple gets a little caramelized. The smell will be heavenly!
5. Make the Coconut Whipped Cream:
While the pineapple is grilling, grab a medium bowl. Whisk together the chilled coconut cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until it becomes light and fluffy. This creamy topping is going to pair perfectly with your grilled pineapple!
6. Final Steps:
Once the pineapple is done, carefully remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. This is the perfect time to get your whipped cream ready!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the grilled pineapple warm, topped with a generous dollop of your coconut cinnamon whipped cream. It’s a delightful combination!
8. Add a Touch of Freshness:
Finally, garnish your creation with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing touch. Enjoy your delicious grilled pineapple dessert!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple is actually preferred for this recipe as it has a much better flavor and texture. Just make sure your pineapple is ripe for the sweetest taste. If you’re in a pinch, canned pineapple rings can work, but look for those packed in juice rather than syrup for a healthier option.
What if I Don’t Have Coconut Cream?
No worries! You can substitute coconut cream with full-fat coconut milk; just refrigerate it overnight and scoop out the solid parts that separate from the liquid. Alternatively, heavy whipping cream can be used if you’re not looking for a dairy-free option, but be sure to adjust the sweetness to your taste since it may not have a coconut flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep it separate from the whipped cream to maintain the cream’s texture. You can reheat the pineapple on the grill or in a skillet for a warm treat!
Can I Make the Whipped Cream Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the coconut cinnamon whipped cream up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. Give it a quick whisk before serving to fluff it up again, as it may settle a bit. This can save you time when you’re ready to serve!
