This Easy Grilled Pineapple is a fun and tasty treat! The sweetness of the pineapple combined with caramelized brown sugar creates a warm, juicy dessert that’s hard to resist.
Nothing says summer like grilled fruit! I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and I can’t help but sneak a piece or two before serving—who can blame me? 🍍
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key for sweetness. Look for one that is slightly soft when pressed and has a sweet smell. If fresh isn’t available, canned or frozen pineapple can work, but grill them briefly to get that charred flavor.
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich caramel flavor. If you need a substitute, you can use white sugar mixed with a touch of molasses to mimic the taste. Coconut sugar is another great option for a less processed alternative.
Butter: Unsalted butter is standard here. If you want to make it dairy-free, consider using coconut oil for a lovely tropical flavor that pairs well with pineapple.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the sweetness of the caramel. For a quick fix, vanilla essence works too, but pure is always better in taste. You could skip it altogether in a pinch.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds brightness to the dish. If fresh isn’t available, you can use a small amount of mint extract, but be careful as it’s much stronger.
How Do You Caramelize Brown Sugar Without Burning It?
Caramelizing the brown sugar mixture is a simple but crucial step. Here’s how to do it without burning it:
- Start by melting the butter on low heat—this prevents it from burning.
- Add the brown sugar gradually while stirring continuously. This helps it combine smoothly.
- Keep the heat low and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and slightly thickened. Watch it closely! If it starts to darken too quickly, remove it from the heat.
The result should be a delicious, glossy mixture that coats your pineapple perfectly! Remember, patience is key here.
How to Make Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Ice cream (for serving)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes to cook on the grill. In total, you’ll be enjoying your grilled pineapple in around 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your pineapple gets those delicious grill marks and warms up perfectly.
2. Slice the Pineapple:
Carefully cut the ripe pineapple into thick slices, about 1 inch each. Be sure to remove the tough core from the center of each slice so they’re easy to eat.
3. Make the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until everything is combined and slightly caramelized, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove from heat.
4. Brush the Pineapple:
Take the caramelized brown sugar mixture and brush it generously over both sides of the pineapple slices. This will add a sweet, delicious flavor when grilled!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the coated pineapple slices carefully on the grilling surface. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see nice grill marks and the pineapple is heated through. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Drizzle and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and drizzle any remaining caramelized brown sugar sauce over the slices. Serve warm, topped with a generous scoop of ice cream and garnished with fresh mint leaves. Enjoy your tasty treat!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?
While fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well and pat it dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent proper caramelization on the grill.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best results, reheat them on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat to refresh their flavor and texture.
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Caramel Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel mixture for a warm spice note, or even a splash of rum for a tropical twist. Just remember to adjust the amount of brown sugar if you add more liquid to maintain the right consistency.
What Can I Substitute for Ice Cream?
If you’re looking for alternatives to ice cream, consider serving the grilled pineapple with Greek yogurt or coconut whipped cream for a lighter option. You could also use sorbet for a dairy-free treat!
