This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is like a sunny treat right off the grill! Sweet and juicy, the brown sugar makes it taste like candy.
Seriously, just toss those pineapple slices with some brown sugar and watch them sizzle! I love serving it warm with ice cream—so good it makes my taste buds dance! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is crucial for sweetness. If fresh isn’t available, canned or frozen pineapples can work, but fresh tastes best. Make sure it’s firm and slightly soft at the crown for the sweetest flavor!
Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely caramel flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses, or use coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
Cinnamon: While optional, I love adding a little sprinkle. If you want a different flavor, consider using nutmeg or even ginger for a unique twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for this, but you can use coconut oil or even a non-dairy butter substitute for a vegan option.
How Do You Grill Pineapple to Get the Perfect Caramelization?
Grilling pineapple is all about achieving that perfect caramelization. It gives a delicious flavor and a beautiful appearance. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps the sugar caramelize quickly.
- Slice your pineapple into thick wedges or planks. If they’re too thin, they might fall through the grill grates.
- Brush the sugar mixture on both sides of the pineapple. This creates a nice crust as it cooks.
- Keep an eye on them while grilling. The sugar can burn quickly, so flip them after 3-4 minutes when grill marks appear.
- Don’t be shy with the cooking spray! This will prevent sticking and help create a delicious sear.
Enjoy your sweet and juicy grilled pineapple experience!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Cooking spray or oil for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to grill, for a total of 20 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious treat to whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to a medium-high heat. This will ensure that the pineapple cooks evenly and gets those nice grill marks.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Carefully peel and core the pineapple. Next, slice it into thick planks or wedges, about ½ inch thick. Thicker slices help hold up better on the grill!
3. Mix the Brown Sugar Coating:
In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, ground cinnamon (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and well combined.
4. Coat the Pineapple Slices:
Generously brush the brown sugar mixture on both sides of each pineapple slice. Make sure they are well-coated to get that delicious caramelization!
5. Prepare the Grill:
Lightly grease your grill grates with cooking spray or a little oil. This step is important to prevent the pineapple from sticking while grilling.
6. Grill the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the coated pineapple slices on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when you see beautiful grill marks and the sugar starts to caramelize into a golden-brown crust.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the grilled pineapple from the heat. Serve it warm as a delightful treat on its own or as a delicious topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Brown Sugar Substitute for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. For every cup of white sugar, add about 1 tablespoon of molasses. Mix until it’s evenly combined for a similar sweetness!
How Can I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes or enjoy it cold in salads or as a topping!
What Type of Pineapple Should I Use?
Look for a ripe pineapple with a sweet aroma, with a slight give when squeezed. A ripe pineapple will have a golden-yellow color and green leaves. Avoid ones that are overly soft or have dark spots. Freshness is key for optimal flavor!
Can I Grill Pineapple on a Grill Pan?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan on the stove works perfectly. Just make sure to preheat the pan well and follow the same grilling instructions. Keep an eye on the pineapple, as cooking times may vary slightly.
