This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a tropical treat! The sweet brown sugar melts and perfectly coats the juicy pineapple, giving it a lovely golden color.
Nothing beats that smoky sweetness when it hits your taste buds. I often enjoy it as a dessert or on top of my favorite ice cream. Yummy! 🍍
Making this is super simple! Just mix sugar and grill the slices—easy peasy. It always impresses friends at BBQs, and I can hardly keep my hands off it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key for sweetness. Look for one that’s slightly soft and has a sweet aroma. Don’t have fresh pineapple? Canned pineapple can work too, but it won’t have the same texture or grill marks.
Brown Sugar: This is essential for that caramelized flavor. If you’re out, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses, or coconut sugar for a different twist on sweetness. Both options are great alternatives!
Cinnamon: While optional, adding ground cinnamon can enhance flavor. If you prefer something different, try nutmeg or even a little chili powder for a spicy kick.
Fresh Mint: It’s a lovely garnish that adds freshness. If mint is unavailable, fresh basil can be an interesting substitute, adding a unique taste to the dish!
How Do I Make Sure the Pineapple Gets Perfect Grill Marks?
Grilling pineapple is all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to achieve those perfect grill marks and nice caramelization:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat for even cooking.
- Slice the pineapple into thick pieces, about 1/2 inch, to prevent them from falling through the grill grates.
- Brush both sides generously with the brown sugar mixture. This helps create a nice crust.
- Place the pineapple on the grill and resist the urge to move it around. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, then check for grill marks before flipping.
- Cook the other side for the same time, watching closely to avoid burning.
Letting the pineapple cool slightly before serving helps the flavors to settle. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 8-10 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll need about 20 minutes to whip up this delicious treat! Perfect for a quick dessert or a sweet side dish at your next gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the pineapple gets those lovely grill marks and caramelizes beautifully.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Next, peel and core the pineapple. Slice it into thick wedges or planks, about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t worry about making them perfect—just aim for nice, sturdy pieces that will hold up on the grill.
3. Make the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, ground cinnamon (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is nicely combined. This sweet mixture is what will make our pineapple extra delicious!
4. Coat the Pineapple:
Now, brush the brown sugar mixture generously on both sides of each pineapple slice. Make sure each piece is well-coated to get that caramelized goodness when grilling.
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the caramelized pineapple on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see nice grill marks and the sugar has caramelized a bit. Keep an eye on them—everyone loves a good sear, but we don’t want them to burn!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once you’re done grilling, remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to handle. Serve warm, and if you like, top with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your sweet and tasty creation!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
While fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple. Make sure to drain it well and pat it dry to prevent excess moisture from interfering with the caramelization. Keep in mind that canned pineapple may not caramelize as nicely as fresh, but it will still taste great!
How Do I Adjust This Recipe for a Non-Grill Method?
If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stove or even bake the pineapple. For a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat and follow the same cooking times as on a grill. For the oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake the pineapple slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for a few seconds or warm it up on the grill for just a minute to regain some of that caramelized flavor!
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Brown Sugar Mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your flavors. You can add a splash of vanilla extract, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or even some rum for a tropical kick to the brown sugar mixture. Just make sure to keep the balance so it doesn’t overpower the pineapple’s natural sweetness!
