This Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple is a sweet treat that’s super easy to make. Just slice up fresh pineapple, sprinkle it with brown sugar, and grill it until it’s golden and delicious!
You won’t believe how this juicy fruit gets even sweeter on the grill. I serve it with ice cream for a fun dessert that always impresses friends. Trust me, they’ll want the recipe! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key here for sweetness and juiciness. If pineapple isn’t in season, canned pineapple rings in juice (not syrup) can work, but fresh is always best!
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds that rich, caramel taste. If you run out, using white sugar with a bit of molasses can mimic brown sugar’s flavor. Honey or maple syrup can also be alternatives if you’re looking for a different sweetness.
Butter: I use melted butter to help with caramelization and flavor. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil is a fantastic substitute that pairs well with pineapple.
Cinnamon: This is optional, but it adds warmth to the dish. If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, feel free to leave it out. You can also try nutmeg for a different twist.
Lime Juice: This adds brightness. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice works too, or even a splash of orange juice for a fruity kick!
How Do You Grill Pineapple Without Burning It?
Grilling pineapple requires a bit of attention to avoid burning, especially since the sugar can caramelize quickly. Follow these steps for great results!
- Prepare your grill at medium-high heat; too high can lead to quick burning.
- Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. I often use a paper towel dipped in oil for easy application.
- When grilling, keep the pineapple slices thick (1/2 to 1 inch) for better grilling. Thin pieces can fall apart.
- Cook for just 2-3 minutes on each side, watching closely for caramelization. If you see smoke, reduce the heat!
- Always remove from the grill once grill marks appear; overcooking can lead to a charred taste.
Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
For the Brown Sugar Mixture:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For Grilling:
- Cooking spray or oil for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 6-8 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll need around 20 minutes to enjoy this deliciously caramelized treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pineapple:
Start by peeling the pineapple. Be sure to remove all the skin. Then, cut out the hard core. Slice the pineapple into thick wedges or planks, about 1/2 to 1 inch thick. These thicker slices will hold up well on the grill!
2. Making the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon (if you’re using it), lime juice (if you’d like some freshness), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it forms a thick, delicious paste.
3. Coating the Pineapple:
Take your pineapple slices and brush the brown sugar mixture generously all over each piece. Make sure to coat all sides evenly. This will help create that yummy caramelized crust when grilling!
4. Preheating the Grill:
Now, it’s time to heat things up! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Don’t forget to lightly grease the grates with cooking spray or a little oil so the pineapple doesn’t stick.
5. Grilling the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple pieces onto the grill. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for those amazing grill marks and check for the sugar bubbling and caramelizing. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
6. Serving:
Once they have those beautiful markings and a caramelized surface, take the pineapple off the grill. Let it cool for a couple of minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy your grilled caramelized pineapple as a delightful dessert or a tasty side dish!
Enjoy this sweet and smoky treat—perfect for summer gatherings or just a cozy evening at home!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sugar?
Absolutely! If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use white granulated sugar or coconut sugar instead. However, keep in mind that using white sugar may result in a less rich caramel flavor. If you opt for coconut sugar, the taste will be a bit different but still delicious!
What if I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can achieve similar results using a grill pan on the stovetop or even an oven broiler. Simply use the grill pan over medium-high heat or place your pineapple on a baking sheet under the broiler, watching closely to ensure it doesn’t burn. The cooking time may vary slightly, so adjust as needed!
Can I Prepare This Pineapple in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the pineapple and the brown sugar mixture a few hours in advance. Just store the coated pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to grill it. This allows the flavors to meld a bit more, making it even tastier!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
If you have any leftovers, allow them to cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy the grilled pineapple cold, or warm it up in a microwave for a few seconds. It’s great for adding to smoothies or as a topping for yogurt!
