This easy grilled pineapple brings out the sweet, juicy flavors of the fruit with a touch of caramelized brown sugar. It’s a perfect treat for summer BBQs!
You won’t believe how simple it is to make! Just slice the pineapple, sprinkle on some sugar, and toss it on the grill. In no time, you’ll have a fabulous dessert!
Pair it with ice cream for a cool combo or enjoy it on its own. Trust me, this treat will make you smile—just like it does for me every time! 🍍😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is essential for this recipe. Look for one that’s slightly soft when you press it, with a sweet aroma. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple rings can work too, though fresh gives a better flavor.
Brown Sugar: The brown sugar adds a rich sweetness. If you’re out of brown sugar, white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses can be a great substitute to replicate that depth of flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the best choice here to control the saltiness. However, you can also use coconut oil for a dairy-free version; it adds a nice tropical flavor!
Vanilla Extract: For a more intense vanilla flavor, you can use vanilla bean paste instead. In a pinch, almond extract works too, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint not only adds color but also a refreshing taste. If you can’t find fresh mint, consider using basil or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a different twist.
How Do I Cut Pineapple for Grilling?
Cutting a pineapple can be tricky, but here’s a simple way. Start by slicing off both the top and bottom, allowing it to stand upright. This way, you can cut the skin off in strips, following the curve of the fruit.
- Stand the pineapple on a cutting board and slice the skin away in strips, removing all eyes.
- Once you’ve peeled it, slice the pineapple into rings about 1/2 inch thick. This thickness helps them hold up on the grill.
- Optionally, you can remove the core by cutting out the center of each ring with a small, round cutter, though it’s not necessary for grilling.
With the right technique, your grilled pineapple will not only look beautiful but also grill evenly for that delicious caramelization!
How to Make Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pineapple Preparation:
- 1 ripe pineapple
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For Serving:
- 1 cup vanilla ice cream
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful grilled pineapple dessert will take about 10 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to grill, making a total of around 20 minutes from start to finish! It’s quick and easy to whip up for a delicious treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the grill gets nice and hot, perfect for caramelizing the pineapple.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Grab your ripe pineapple. Cut off the top and bottom, then stand it upright. Carefully slice off the skin and remove any brown eyes. Now, slice the pineapple into rings, about 1/2 inch thick. These rings are going to be grilled to perfection!
3. Make the Caramel Sauce:
In a small saucepan, add the brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Heat this mixture over low heat, stirring until the butter is melted and the ingredients are blended together into a smooth caramel sauce. Remove it from the heat and set it aside for later.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple rings directly on the grill. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes. You’re looking for those beautiful grill marks and a nice caramelization to occur on the pineapple.
5. Drizzle the Caramel:
Once the pineapple is grilled, take it off the grill and drizzle the delicious caramel sauce over the top of the warm pineapple rings. Yum!
6. Serve and Garnish:
For the final touch, scoop some vanilla ice cream over the grilled pineapple and add a few fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color. This will make your dessert not just tasty, but beautiful too!
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar! It’s a delightful, sweet treat that everyone will love!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
While fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple slices. Just make sure to choose those packed in juice, not syrup. Drain them well, and you may want to reduce the grilling time to about 2-3 minutes per side, as they’re already cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar usually works well). Alternatively, coconut sugar can also be used for a similar flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes to warm them up. They’re also great cold!
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Caramel Sauce?
Absolutely! Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. For a fun twist, a splash of rum or whiskey can give the caramel a delightful kick. Just remember to cook it down a little longer to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
