This grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple is a sweet treat you won’t want to miss! The brown sugar melts and creates a tasty glaze on the juicy pineapple slices.
Every bite is a burst of flavor, and trust me, this makes a perfect dessert or snack. I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—so good! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key for sweetness. You can tell it’s ripe by the sweet smell at the stem and some yellowing on the skin. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple works too, though it may not have as much flavor when grilled.
Brown Sugar: You can use either light or dark brown sugar. Dark brown sugar gives a deeper flavor and color. If you’re out of brown sugar, mix white sugar with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar) for a close substitute.
Cinnamon: This is optional, but it adds warmth to the flavor. If you want a twist, try nutmeg or allspice instead. For a non-spice option, you could also skip it altogether, and the dish will still be delicious!
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, but you can use coconut oil or vegetable oil instead for a dairy-free version. Coconut oil adds a nice tropical flavor that pairs well with pineapple.
How Do You Grill the Perfect Caramelized Pineapple?
Grilling pineapple is easy, but you want to achieve that caramelized, golden-brown exterior. Start by cutting the pineapple into thick slices; this helps it hold its shape on the grill. Treat the slices with melted butter and the sugar mixture for that sweetness and nice texture.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high; this temperature caramelizes the sugars quickly without burning.
- Grill the slices for 3-5 minutes on each side. Look for those grill marks and a beautiful caramelized color as signs of readiness.
- Let the pineapple cool slightly after grilling—this way, you can enjoy it warm without the risk of burning your tongue.
Adding fresh mint and lime gives a refreshing contrast to the sweet pineapple and is a step you won’t want to skip!
How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to grill, for a total of about 20 minutes from start to finish. In no time, you’ll have a delicious caramelized treat ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
Start by cutting the pineapple into thick slices, around 1 inch each. You can remove the core from these slices if you’d like. This makes them easier to eat and enjoy!
2. Mix the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined. This sugary mixture will add a delicious sweetness to the pineapple!
3. Coat the Pineapple:
Now, take your melted unsalted butter and brush it over both sides of the pineapple slices. After that, generously sprinkle the brown sugar mixture on both sides. Make sure each slice is nicely coated, as this will help create that yummy caramelization while grilling.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This is important for getting those lovely grill marks and ensuring the pineapple cooks evenly.
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Once the grill is hot, place the pineapple slices on it. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for the sugar to caramelize and for those beautiful grill marks to appear. The pineapple should be heated through and tender.
6. Serve:
After grilling, carefully remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. Serve the warm grilled pineapple with a garnish of fresh mint leaves and lime wedges if desired. Enjoy this delightful dish as a sweet dessert or a lovely side!
Enjoy your delicious grilled caramelized brown sugar pineapple as a dessert or a sweet side dish!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but fresh pineapple gives you the best flavor and texture. If using canned, be sure to drain and pat dry the slices to remove excess moisture, which helps with caramelization. Grill for a shorter time, around 2-3 minutes per side, as they are already soft.
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 enjoy it later, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or warm it up on the grill again for a fresh taste!
Can I Substitute the Brown Sugar with Another Sweetener?
Absolutely! You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower-calorie option. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly, and adjust the quantity to taste, as some substitutes can be sweeter than brown sugar.
What Can I Serve This Grilled Pineapple With?
Grilled caramelized pineapple pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or even on top of pancakes. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats for a sweet and savory contrast or chop it up to add to fruit salads!
