This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet treat that brings a tropical vibe to your table. The brown sugar adds a rich flavor that makes each bite irresistible!
Grilling brings out the pineapple’s natural juices, creating a warm, gooey goodness you’ll want to enjoy again and again. I love serving it over ice cream for a fun dessert combo! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A fresh, ripe pineapple is what you need for this recipe. Look for one that’s fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple (in juice, not syrup) can work in a pinch, but it won’t have the same texture or smokiness.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives that lovely caramel flavor. You can use light or dark brown sugar based on how rich you like the flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses — about 1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth but is totally optional. If you’re not a fan or don’t have it, try other spices like nutmeg or even a pinch of cardamom for a different twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the salt level. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil works wonderfully and adds a nice flavor, too!
Cooking Spray: If you don’t have cooking spray, more melted butter does just fine. Olive oil is also an option for grilling if you prefer it.
How Do You Grill Pineapple Without Burning It?
Grilling pineapple can be tricky because of its natural sugars. Here are some tips to get those perfect grill marks without charring it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is crucial for a good sear.
- Slice the pineapple into thicker pieces (about 1-inch). Thinner slices will cook too fast and burn.
- Make sure to brush the pineapple generously with the brown sugar mixture before grilling; this helps caramelize but can also burn if left too long.
- Stay nearby! Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, watching closely. If you see caramelization happening, you can adjust the heat or move them to a cooler side of the grill.
Letting them sit for a minute after grilling allows the sugars to set a bit more. Enjoy your perfectly grilled pineapple!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pineapple:
- 1 whole fresh pineapple
For the Caramelizing Mixture:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
For Grilling:
- Cooking spray or additional butter for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and about 8 minutes to grill, totaling around 18 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy sweet, caramelized fruit!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Begin by firing up your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your pineapple cooks nicely and caramelizes perfectly.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Carefully peel the pineapple, removing the tough skin and any eyes. Slice it into thick wedges or rectangular planks, about an inch thick. This thickness helps them hold up well on the grill.
3. Make the Caramelizing Mixture:
In a small bowl, blend the brown sugar, ground cinnamon (if you’re using it), melted butter, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will help the pineapple achieve that delicious caramelized flavor.
4. Brush the Pineapple:
Generously brush each slice of pineapple on both sides with your brown sugar mixture. Make sure to coat them well for the best flavor.
5. Prepare the Grill Grates:
To prevent the pineapple from sticking, lightly spray the grill grates with cooking spray or brush with some melted butter.
6. Grill the Pineapple:
Carefully place the pineapple slices on the hot grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice grill marks and a golden, caramelized finish, so keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
7. Let It Cool:
Once your pineapple is caramelized and tender, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to handle and even more delicious!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, grilled pineapple slices as is, or for an extra treat, garnish with fresh mint leaves or serve alongside some creamy ice cream. Enjoy the sweet, smoky goodness!
Happy grilling! Enjoy your indulgently sweet and smoky grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple delivers the best texture and flavor, you can use canned pineapple rings as a convenient alternative! Just make sure to drain and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before grilling. Grill for less time, about 2-3 minutes per side, as they are already softened.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up on the grill for a minute on each side or use the microwave for 15-30 seconds until heated through.
Can I Substitute Brown Sugar with Another Sweetener?
Yes! You can use coconut sugar, maple syrup, or honey as alternatives to brown sugar. If using maple syrup or honey, reduce the amount slightly since they are sweeter than brown sugar. For the summer sweetness of grilled fruit, the caramelizing effect might not be the same, but it will still be delicious!
What Other Spices Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a dash of nutmeg, ginger, or ground cloves can enhance the flavor profile. For a tropical twist, consider adding a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a splash of rum into the caramelizing mixture!
