This Easy Grilled Pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat you can make on the grill! With caramelized brown sugar, it becomes a simple but delicious dessert that’s perfect for summer.
Honestly, there’s something magical about the smoky flavor combined with the sweetness. I usually serve it with ice cream, and let’s just say, it’s a crowd-pleaser! 🍍
I love how easy it is to prepare—just slice, sprinkle brown sugar, and grill! That’s it! You’ll have a tasty dessert ready in no time. Enjoy it with friends or just for yourself—no judgment here!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is the star of this recipe. Choose a ripe one with a sweet smell. If pineapples aren’t available, you can try using canned pineapple slices (drained) as a substitute, though fresh will give a better texture.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and caramelizes beautifully on the grill. If you’re out, you can use regular granulated sugar, but it won’t have that rich, molasses flavor. Coconut sugar is another good alternative for a different taste.
Butter: Melted butter enhances flavor and helps the sugar stick. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut oil—it adds a nice tropical touch and works well with pineapple.
Cinnamon: This is optional, but it complements the sweetness of the pineapple. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or swap for nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Grill Pineapple to Get Perfect Grill Marks?
Grilling pineapple is simple but needs a bit of care for perfect results. The key is to ensure your grill is properly preheated and the pineapple is well-prepared.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for even cooking.
- Cut your pineapple into uniform 1/2-inch slices to ensure they cook evenly.
- Brush both sides of the pineapple with the brown sugar mixture, so they caramelize nicely.
- Place slices on the grill and avoid moving them too soon; let them cook for 3-4 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when grill marks appear.
- Flip carefully, and watch for burning; grilling time may vary slightly based on pineapple thickness and grill temperature.
Letting the pineapple grill long enough will bring out its natural sweetness, making it a delicious treat. Enjoy!
How to Make Easy Grilled Pineapple With Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 whole pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes for grilling. In total, you’re looking at around 20 minutes from start to finish, making this a quick and delightful dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important to ensure that your pineapple gets nice grill marks and caramelizes beautifully.
2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon if you’re using it. Stir until everything is well combined and ready to glaze the pineapple.
3. Glaze the Pineapple Slices:
Take your freshly cut pineapple slices and brush them generously with the brown sugar mixture on both sides. Make sure each slice is nicely coated; this will give you that delicious caramelization when grilling!
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Carefully place the pineapple slices directly on the heated grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when you see lovely grill marks, and the pineapple becomes tender and fragrant.
5. Serve the Grilled Pineapple:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple slices from the grill and set them aside. Serve them warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle any remaining caramelized brown sugar sauce over the top and add mint leaves for a fresh touch, if you like.
6. Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious grilled pineapple dessert and enjoy this sweet and simple treat!
Can I Use Pre-Cut Pineapple for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-cut pineapple is a convenient option. Just make sure the pieces are about 1/2-inch thick for even grilling. Also, consider adjusting the cooking time, as smaller pieces may grill quicker.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold as a snack or reheat it briefly on the grill or in the microwave for a warm treat!
Can I Substitute the Brown Sugar?
Yes! If you prefer a different sweetener, you can use coconut sugar or maple syrup. If using maple syrup, reduce the amount slightly, as it is sweeter than brown sugar. Just mix it with melted butter and proceed as normal!
What Other Toppings Can I Use Instead of Ice Cream?
If you want to skip the ice cream, try topping the grilled pineapple with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or serve it alongside whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or even a sprinkle of shredded coconut for extra flavor.
