Grilled Pineapple

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, let me introduce you to my favorite dessert: Grilled Pineapple! There’s something magical about caramelizing the natural sugars in pineapple over a hot grill. The result? A juicy, tender dessert that bursts with flavor and is perfect for any occasion.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or a summer barbecue, this grilled pineapple recipe has got you covered. It’s simple enough to whip up on a whim, yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Plus, who can resist that warm fruit paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of cooking time. Perfect for when you’re short on time!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon creates a heavenly caramelized crust that elevates the pineapple’s sweetness.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! Grilled pineapple is a fun way to enjoy fruit, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it on its own or serve it with ice cream or yogurt for an extra special treat. It pairs well with many flavors!
• Make Ahead Option: Marinate the pineapple ahead of time and throw it on the grill when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dessert. You probably have most of these items in your kitchen already!

Ingredients:
– 1 fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
– 1/4 cup dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free), optional
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch salt

Variations

This grilled pineapple recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or what you’re in the mood for.

• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle a little cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy kick.
• Try Different Fruits: Substitute or add other fruits like peaches or mangoes for variety.
• Use Honey or Maple Syrup: Swap the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Top It Off: Serve with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple

Start by using a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple. This gives you a stable base. Next, slice away the rind, removing all those prickly bits. Cut the fruit into 3/4-1-inch spears or rings, then use a small cutter to remove the core from the rings. Transfer your freshly cut pineapple into a large zip-top bag and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, optional vanilla extract, cinnamon, and pinch of salt. This marinade is what makes our grilled pineapple so irresistible! Pour this mixture into your zip-top bag with the pineapple. Gently toss everything together until all pieces are well coated. Now it’s time to let them sit in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes so they can soak up all that deliciousness.

Step 3: Heat Up Your Grill

Warm up your grill or grill pan over medium heat, aiming for around 375-400°F. This medium heat will allow the pineapple to caramelize beautifully without burning too quickly.

Step 4: Grill That Pineapple

Once your grill is ready, place the marinated pineapple on it and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side. Don’t forget to brush each side with any excess marinade as it cooks! This step helps enhance that lovely glaze we’re after.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

When your grilled pineapple has those beautiful grill marks and smells heavenly, transfer it onto a platter. Serve immediately while it’s warm—perhaps alongside some creamy ice cream. Enjoy every bite!

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Grilled Pineapple recipe as much as I do! It’s not just food; it’s an experience filled with warmth and sweetness!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Pineapple

Grilling pineapple is a delightful way to enhance its natural sweetness, and these tips will ensure you get the best results!

• Choose a ripe pineapple: A ripe pineapple will yield the sweetest flavor. Look for a fruit with a sweet aroma at the base, vibrant yellow color, and slightly soft to the touch.

• Don’t skip the marinade: Allowing the pineapple to soak in the buttery brown sugar mixture not only adds flavor but also helps caramelize the sugars on the grill, creating a beautifully charred exterior.

• Preheat your grill: Ensuring your grill is hot enough before placing the pineapple on it is essential for achieving those delicious grill marks and preventing sticking.

• Watch your cooking time: Overcooking can turn your pineapple mushy. Keep an eye on it and aim for 4-6 minutes per side, just until you see those lovely grill marks.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger to your marinade for an extra flavor kick that pairs wonderfully with grilled fruit.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is not only delicious but also visually stunning! Here are some creative ways to present this dessert that will wow your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh mint: A sprinkle of chopped mint adds a refreshing touch that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Coconut whipped cream: For a tropical twist, serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream, which adds creaminess without any dairy.
• Toasted coconut flakes: A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes will add texture and an extra hint of tropical flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream balances the warm grilled pineapple perfectly.

• Coconut rice: Sweet coconut rice enhances the tropical theme and provides a fluffy contrast to the grilled fruit.

• Fresh berry salad: A colorful mix of berries adds brightness and acidity that cuts through the sweetness of the grilled pineapple, making for an excellent palate cleanser.

• Graham cracker crumbles: For added crunch and texture, serve alongside graham cracker crumbles, mimicking a pie crust element that complements this fruity dessert beautifully.

Enjoy your delicious grilled pineapple creation, and remember—there’s no right or wrong way to serve it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This grilled pineapple recipe is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it make a delicious dessert, but it can also be enjoyed as a snack throughout the week. Just follow these simple storage tips to keep your grilled pineapple fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Enjoy cold or reheat slightly if preferred.

Freezing

• Allow the grilled pineapple to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the grilled pineapple on a grill or in a grill pan over medium heat.
• Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 30 seconds, but grilling will help retain its flavor and texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making grilled pineapple!

Can I use canned pineapple for grilling?

Using fresh pineapple is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but if you must use canned, ensure it’s packed in juice (not syrup) and drain thoroughly before grilling.

What can I serve with grilled pineapple?

Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or even as a topping for pancakes or waffles. It’s also delightful alongside savory dishes like chicken or fish!

How do I make this grilled pineapple recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The rest of the ingredients are already suitable!

Is grilled pineapple healthy?

Absolutely! Grilled pineapple is low in calories and packed with vitamins. It’s a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying nutritious fruit.

How long does grilled pineapple last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, grilled pineapple can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful grilled pineapple as much as I do! It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that brings sweetness and joy to any occasion. Whether you’re serving it after dinner or enjoying it as a snack during the day, it’s sure to become a favorite. Happy grilling, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how it turns out!