This easy grilled pineapple is a sweet treat that brings sunshine to your plate! The brown sugar glaze caramelizes beautifully, making every bite feel like a mini-vacation.
Grilling pineapple is super fun! I love serving it with ice cream or on a burger for a tropical twist. It’s the perfect simple dessert that makes everyone smile! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is best for grilling because it’s sweet and juicy. If fresh isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple rings. Just make sure to drain them well to prevent excess moisture on the grill.
Brown Sugar: I love using brown sugar for that rich, caramel flavor! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with coconut sugar or even a sugar-free sweetener that measures like sugar.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my favorite for a more controlled flavor, but olive oil or coconut oil also works well. This is a great dairy-free alternative if needed!
Cinnamon: This is optional, but I think it adds a warm spice that complements the sweetness nicely. If you’re avoiding cinnamon, consider nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor twist.
How Do You Get Perfect Grill Marks on Pineapple?
Getting those beautiful grill marks isn’t just for looks—it’s all about enhancing the flavor. Here’s how to make it happen:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This helps caramelize the sugar without burning.
- Oil your grill grates lightly. This ensures the pineapple doesn’t stick and makes flipping easier.
- Place the pineapple on the grill at a slight angle. Leave it undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to allow the sugar to caramelize and develop those lovely grill marks.
- When it’s time to flip, do so gently, and try to place the pineapple in the same position for those criss-cross marks.
Grilling is about patience, so let the pineapple cook without fussing over it too much. Enjoy your grilled treat!
Easy Grilled Pineapple with Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or spears
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Cooking spray or a little oil for the grill
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled pineapple will take about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 8-10 minutes on the grill. So, in total, you’re looking at about 20 minutes to enjoy this sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This step is important to get that perfect caramelization on your pineapple!
2. Make the Sweet Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well combined and you have a smooth glaze. This will add that delicious sweetness to your pineapple!
3. Prepare the Grill:
Now, lightly oil or spray the grill grates with cooking spray. This way, your pineapple won’t stick when grilling, making it easier to flip and remove.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple pieces on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on one side, until you see nice grill marks and the pineapple starts to soften. Then, flip them over to the other side.
5. Glaze During Grilling:
In the last minute of grilling each side, brush a generous amount of the brown sugar glaze over the pineapple. This will help create a caramelized crust that’s full of flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pineapple is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it cool for just a minute. Serve it warm as a delightful dessert or a fun side dish, and consider adding a scoop of ice cream or some yogurt and fresh herbs like mint for extra freshness.
Enjoy your sweet, caramelized grilled pineapple! It’s sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Grilling fresh pineapple will give you a better texture and flavor, but canned can be a quick and convenient option!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold as a snack or reheat it gently in the microwave or on the grill to warm it back up.
Can I Make the Brown Sugar Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken when cold.
What Other Toppings Pair Well with Grilled Pineapple?
Grilled pineapple is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, fresh mint, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can even serve it as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a delightful brunch option!
