This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat. The brown sugar adds a lovely glaze and brings out the fruity flavor, perfect for summer nights!
Honestly, who doesn’t love warm and sticky pineapple? I like to serve it with ice cream for a simple dessert. Trust me, it’s a game-changer! 🍦🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is the star of this dish. Look for a ripe one with a sweet smell and vibrant color. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple slices can work in a pinch, but they may not caramelize as well.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is key for caramelization because it adds depth. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can make a substitute using white sugar and molasses. Mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses for light brown sugar. For dark brown, use 2 tablespoons.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives that rich flavor. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine can substitute nicely, still allowing for some creaminess in the mix. I sometimes even add a hint of coconut flavor if using coconut oil!
Cinnamon: This is optional, but it adds warmth. If you’re not a cinnamon fan, try nutmeg or skip it altogether. A little ginger can also work for a different flair!
How Do I Get Perfect Grill Marks on My Pineapple?
Getting those great grill marks is all about heat and timing. Make sure your grill is hot before you start. Here are some tips for perfect results:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan on medium-high heat. A hot surface means better searing.
- Brush both sides of the pineapple slices with the sugar mixture to create a nice caramel layer.
- Place the slices on the grill and don’t move them for the first 3-4 minutes to allow marks to form.
- After flipping, cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as grill times can vary!
Letting the pineapple rest before serving helps retain juices and flavor. Trust me, that little bit of patience pays off!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium pineapple, peeled and cut into rectangular slices
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Non-stick cooking spray or additional butter for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 8-10 minutes to grill. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious grilled caramelized pineapple in about 20 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will get it nice and hot for the pineapple, helping it caramelize beautifully.
2. Make the Caramelizing Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until it forms a smooth mixture. This will help create that lovely caramelized layer on the pineapple.
3. Prepare the Pineapple:
Take each rectangular slice of pineapple and brush both sides generously with the brown sugar mixture you just made. Make sure every slice is well-coated to get that delicious caramelization.
4. Grease the Grill:
Before putting the pineapple on the grill, lightly grease the grill grates using non-stick cooking spray or by brushing them with additional butter. This will help prevent the pineapple from sticking.
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the prepared pineapple slices on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for those beautiful grill marks, and wait until the pineapple is caramelized to get the best flavor!
6. Let it Rest:
Once they are done grilling, carefully remove the pineapple slices from the grill and let them rest for a minute. This helps the caramelization settle a bit.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is ready to enjoy! Serve it warm as a tasty side dish or dessert. For a treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey on top. Enjoy every sweet bite!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but it’s best to choose slices packed in juice rather than syrup for a healthier option. Drain them well and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help them caramelize better on the grill.
What If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
No problem! You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. For each cup of sugar, use about 1 tablespoon of molasses to mimic the flavor and moisture of brown sugar. Alternatively, feel free to use coconut sugar for a different twist!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold, or reheat them on the grill or in a skillet for a few minutes to warm through and regenerate a bit of that delicious caramelization.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter substitute or coconut oil. Ensure the vanilla extract and brown sugar you choose are also vegan-friendly, which most are, and you’ll have a delicious vegan treat!
