Grilled Pineapple

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s both sweet and satisfying, you’ve come to the right place! This Grilled Pineapple recipe is a cherished favorite in my home. The combination of caramelized sugar and warm, juicy pineapple creates a mouthwatering dessert that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish brings smiles to everyone’s faces.

What’s even better is how simple it is to whip up. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a delicious dessert that feels indulgent but is still light and refreshing. Pair it with some ice cream, and you’re in for a real treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready to chill before grilling.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, grilled flavor of the pineapple.
• Make-Ahead Option: Marinate the pineapple ahead of time for an effortless dessert when you’re ready to grill.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it on its own or serve it with toppings like whipped cream or yogurt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the best part—these ingredients are simple, wholesome, and easy to find! You probably have some of them at home already. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need for this delicious Grilled Pineapple:

For the Grilled Pineapple

• 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

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative with your grilled pineapple by trying out these fun variations:

• Add Tropical Flair: Mix in some coconut flakes or sprinkle shredded coconut on top after grilling.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick.
• Top It Off: Serve with yogurt or whipped topping for added creaminess.
• Fruit Medley: Grill other fruits alongside the pineapple such as peaches or mangoes for a colorful platter.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple

Use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple and remove the rind. Cutting it into spears or rings makes it easier to grill. Don’t forget to remove the core! This step ensures every bite is tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract (if using), cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until it’s well combined. This mixture will coat the pineapple beautifully, adding rich flavor as it grills.

Step 3: Marinate

Place your prepared pineapple into a large zip-top bag and pour in the marinade. Gently toss everything together so that each piece gets coated. Let this sit in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes; this helps enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Grill It Up

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat until it’s around 375-400°F. Place your marinated pineapple on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side. Be sure to brush each side with any excess marinade while grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Once beautifully caramelized, transfer your grilled pineapple to a platter. Serve immediately while warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream on top if you’re feeling indulgent! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Pineapple

Creating the perfect grilled pineapple is easier than you think! Here are some tips to help you achieve that delicious caramelized flavor and beautiful grill marks.

• Choose a ripe pineapple: Selecting a ripe pineapple ensures maximum sweetness and flavor. Look for a fruit that’s slightly soft to the touch and has a sweet aroma at the base.
• Marinate for flavor: Allowing the pineapple to marinate for 20-30 minutes helps the flavors meld together, making every bite juicy and delicious. The sugar caramelizes beautifully when grilled.
• Preheat your grill: Making sure your grill is at the right temperature (375-400°F) ensures that the pineapple cooks evenly and gets those gorgeous grill marks without becoming mushy.
• Use a grill basket or skewers: If you want to prevent smaller pieces from falling through the grates, consider using a grill basket or threading the pineapple onto skewers. This also makes flipping easier!
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger to add an extra layer of flavor. This can personalize your grilled pineapple experience!

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is not only a delight on its own but can also be creatively incorporated into various dishes. Here are some fun ideas to present this sweet treat.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint adds a refreshing contrast and enhances the tropical vibe of the dish.
• Coconut flakes: Toasted coconut flakes bring an extra crunch and subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with grilled fruit.
• Lime zest: A light sprinkle of lime zest brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick that elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

• Coconut rice: Fluffy coconut rice complements the sweetness of grilled pineapple perfectly, adding creaminess and richness.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs offers a light counterpoint to the sweetness of the fruit. It’s healthy and packed with protein!
• Grilled chicken skewers: Chicken skewers seasoned with tropical spices make for an excellent savory contrast, balancing out the sweetness of your dessert.
• Mixed green salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar provides a fresh, crisp pairing that rounds out your meal nicely.

Now you’re all set to enjoy grilled pineapple in delightful new ways! Whether as a standalone dessert or part of an elaborate spread, it’s bound to impress friends and family alike. Happy grilling!

Make Ahead and Storage

This grilled pineapple recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat without the hassle on busy days. You can easily whip up a batch in advance and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best flavor, consume within the first couple of days.

Freezing

• Allow the grilled pineapple to cool completely before freezing.
• Lay the spears or rings flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where it can be kept for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat grilled pineapple in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave on low power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• If using the grill, quickly reheat for just a couple of minutes on each side.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful grilled pineapple.

Can I make Grilled Pineapple without butter?

Absolutely! You can substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative. This will still give your pineapple that delicious caramelization.

What is the best way to serve Grilled Pineapple?

Grilled pineapple is fantastic served warm with a scoop of your favorite ice cream or yogurt. It’s also great as a topping for pancakes or waffles!

How long does Grilled Pineapple last?

When stored properly, grilled pineapple can last up to 3 days in the fridge and up to 3 months if frozen. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste!

Can I add spices to my Grilled Pineapple?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with adding spices like nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful grilled pineapple recipe as much as I do! It’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while being incredibly simple and quick. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or simply indulging on a cozy evening at home, it’s sure to bring joy. Happy grilling, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth and delicious aromas!