Grilled Pineapple

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both easy and delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This grilled pineapple recipe is one of my absolute favorites. It’s sweet, juicy, and has that wonderful smoky flavor from the grill that makes it simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish fits right in. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a scoop of your favorite ice cream!

The best part? Grilled pineapple is quick to prepare and brings a tropical vibe to any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to make: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time.
  • Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet flavor of grilled pineapple.
  • Versatile dessert: Serve it on its own or top it with ice cream for an extra special touch.
  • Make-ahead option: Marinate the pineapple ahead of time for easy grilling later!
  • Healthier indulgence: This dessert satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping it wholesome.
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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful treat. You don’t need anything fancy here—just fresh pineapple and a few pantry staples!

  • 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 things I love about grilled pineapple is how flexible it is! You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste.

  • Add spices: Sprinkle some ground nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Try different fruits: Swap out pineapple for peaches or mangoes for a fun twist.
  • Make it tropical: Top with shredded coconut after grilling for a beachy vibe.
  • Drizzle with honey: Instead of brown sugar, brush on some honey before grilling for a floral sweetness.

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 makes it easier to remove the rind. Next, slice the fruit into 3/4-1-inch spears or rings. Don’t forget to remove the core from the rings! Once that’s done, place your freshly cut pineapple into a large zip-top bag and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, dark brown sugar, dark vanilla extract (if you’re using it), ground cinnamon, and pinch of salt until everything is well combined. This marinade adds such rich flavor and helps caramelize the pineapple as it cooks. Pour this mixture into your zip-top bag with the pineapple and gently toss to coat all sides. Let it chill in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes—this step really allows those flavors to deepen!

Step 3: Grill It Up

Warm your grill or grill pan over medium heat until it’s around 375-400°F. Place your marinated fruit on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side. Brush each side with extra marinade as they cook; this keeps them juicy and flavorful! The goal here is to achieve those beautiful grill marks while caramelizing the sugars in the fruit.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

Once your grilled pineapple is beautifully golden, transfer it to a platter and serve immediately. It’s perfect on its own or topped with a scoop of ice cream! Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat that will have everyone coming back for more!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Pineapple

Making grilled pineapple is a delightful and simple process that can elevate your dessert game. Here are some pro tips to ensure your grilled pineapple turns out perfectly every time!

  • Choose a ripe pineapple: A ripe pineapple will be sweeter and more flavorful. Look for one that has a sweet aroma at the base and gives slightly when pressed.

  • Soak for flavor: If you have extra time, consider letting the pineapple marinate longer than 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the fruit, making it even tastier.

  • Preheat your grill: Ensuring your grill or grill pan is hot enough will give you those beautiful caramelized grill marks and keep the pineapple from sticking.

  • Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add other spices like ginger or nutmeg to the marinade for a unique twist on flavor. It can create an exciting variation that keeps things interesting!

  • Serve immediately: Grilled pineapple is best enjoyed fresh off the grill while it’s warm and juicy. This way, you’ll get the full burst of flavor in each bite.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for entertaining or a cozy family dinner. Here are some creative serving ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

  • Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint adds a beautiful pop of color and a refreshing taste that complements the sweetness of the grilled pineapple.
  • Chopped nuts: Adding chopped almonds or walnuts provides a delightful crunch and contrasts with the soft texture of the fruit.
  • Coconut flakes: Toasted coconut flakes can enhance the tropical vibe of this dish, adding both flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

  • Coconut whipped cream: This light, dairy-free topping pairs perfectly with grilled pineapple, adding creaminess without overpowering its natural sweetness.
  • Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, bell peppers, and lime dressing balances out the sweetness of the pineapple while providing protein and fiber.
  • Grilled chicken skewers: These savory skewers can be marinated in similar spices as the pineapple, creating a cohesive flavor profile for your meal.
  • Rice pudding: Creamy rice pudding offers a comforting contrast to the grilled fruit’s warmth and makes for an indulgent dessert option.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your grilled pineapple will be sure to impress! Enjoy this sweet treat at your next gathering or as a delightful weeknight dessert.

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Make Ahead and Storage

This grilled pineapple recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it, so it’s ready whenever you have a sweet craving or need a quick dessert.

Storing Leftovers

  • Allow the grilled pineapple to cool completely.
  • Transfer to an airtight container.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

  • Allow the grilled pineapple to cool completely before freezing.
  • Place the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid.
  • Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
  • Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

  • To reheat, place the grilled pineapple in a microwave-safe dish and cover.
  • Heat in short intervals (about 30 seconds), checking frequently until warmed through.
  • Alternatively, reheat on a grill or grill pan over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about grilled pineapple:

Can I use canned pineapple for grilling?

While fresh pineapple offers the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple. Make sure it’s well-drained before grilling.

How do I make Grilled Pineapple without added sugar?

For a no-sugar option, simply brush your pineapple with melted coconut oil and sprinkle with cinnamon before grilling. This will still give you that lovely caramelization without added sugars!

What can I serve with Grilled Pineapple?

Grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or even as a topping on pancakes. You can also enjoy it alongside savory dishes like grilled chicken or fish!

Is Grilled Pineapple healthy?

Absolutely! Grilled pineapple is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants. It’s a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying some health benefits!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful grilled pineapple! It’s such a simple yet incredibly satisfying dessert that will impress your family and friends alike. Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite treat, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy grilling!

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Grilled Pineapple

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Indulge in the tropical delight of grilled pineapple, a simple yet irresistible dessert that adds a burst of flavor to any occasion. This easy recipe transforms fresh pineapple into caramelized goodness with just a few pantry staples. The sweet, juicy fruit is grilled to perfection, creating a smoky flavor that pairs well with ice cream or can be enjoyed on its own. Ideal for family gatherings or a quick weeknight treat, this dish brings the essence of summer right to your table.

  • Author: Maeve
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Tropical

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 fresh pineapple
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pineapple by cutting off the top and bottom, then slice it into 3/4-1-inch spears or rings, removing the core.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt until combined. Pour this marinade over the pineapple in a zip-top bag and toss to coat. Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (375-400°F). Grill the marinated pineapple for 4-6 minutes per side, brushing with extra marinade to keep it juicy.
  4. Serve immediately on a platter and enjoy warm.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
  • Calories: 186
  • Sugar: 17g
  • Sodium: 10mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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