Grilled Pineapple

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly tasty, then this Grilled Pineapple recipe is calling your name! This dish has a special place in my heart because it combines the juicy sweetness of fresh pineapple with a caramelized finish that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a quiet evening at home, or celebrating a family gathering, grilled pineapple can elevate any occasion. Plus, it pairs beautifully with ice cream, making it an instant crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple to prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-friendly treat: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and smoky flavor of grilled pineapple. It’s fun to eat too!
• Versatile serving options: Serve it as a dessert or as a topping on yogurt or pancakes—endless possibilities!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can marinate the pineapple ahead of time, making it easy to throw on the grill when you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather up some simple, wholesome ingredients for this delicious treat! You likely have most of these in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pineapple

• 1 fresh pineapple

For the Marinade

• 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 get creative with flavors and toppings! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some spice: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the marinade for a sweet-and-spicy kick.
• Mix up the fruit: Try grilling peaches or mangoes alongside the pineapple for a tropical fruit medley.
• Top with nuts: After grilling, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or almonds on top for added crunch.
• Serve with yogurt: Instead of ice cream, serve your grilled pineapple with coconut yogurt for a refreshing twist.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple

To start off, grab a sharp knife and carefully cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple. This makes it stable while you slice off the rind. Next, cut it into 3/4-1-inch spears or rings. Remember to remove the core from the rings using a small cutter. This step is important because no one wants that tough center when they’re enjoying this sweet treat!

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, dark brown sugar, alcohol-free vanilla extract (if you’re using it), ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined. This marinade adds layers of flavor that make grilled pineapple so irresistible! Pour this mixture into your zip-top bag with the sliced pineapple and gently toss to coat every piece.

Step 3: Marinate

Let your marinated pineapple hang out in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes. This not only helps deepen those flavors but also ensures that every bite is deliciously infused with sweetness.

Step 4: Grill It Up

Now it’s time to warm up your grill or grill pan over medium heat (375-400°F is ideal). Once hot, place those beautiful pineapple slices on the grill and cook them for about 4-6 minutes per side. Don’t forget to brush each side with any leftover marinade as they cook—this helps caramelize them even more!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your grilled pineapple has those gorgeous grill marks and smells heavenly, transfer it to a platter and serve immediately. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with ice cream or yogurt, you’ll discover just how satisfying this dessert can be! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Pineapple

Grilling pineapple is a delightful way to enhance its natural sweetness, and with these handy tips, you’ll achieve perfect results every time!

• Choose a ripe pineapple: Look for a pineapple that has a sweet aroma and gives slightly when pressed. A ripe fruit will ensure your grilled pineapple is juicy and flavorful.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butter and quality brown sugar make all the difference in flavor. Using fresh ingredients ensures that every bite bursts with deliciousness.

• Don’t skip marinating: Allowing the pineapple to soak in the marinade not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the fruit. Even a short marinating time can elevate your dish to new heights.

• Preheat your grill properly: Ensuring your grill is at the right temperature (375-400°F) allows for nice grill marks and caramelization without sticking. A well-heated grill also helps achieve that sought-after smoky flavor.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to get creative! Adding spices like nutmeg or ginger can give your grilled pineapple an extra layer of flavor. Don’t hesitate to try new combinations that suit your taste buds!

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this sweet treat that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: Adding a sprinkle of fresh mint not only enhances the presentation but also introduces a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the fruit.
• Toasted coconut flakes: A sprinkle of toasted coconut will add texture and an exotic touch, making your grilled pineapple even more irresistible.
• Drizzle of honey or maple syrup: For an extra touch of sweetness, a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup can enhance the flavors while giving it a beautiful shine.

Side Dishes

• Coconut rice: This creamy, fragrant rice pairs perfectly with grilled pineapple, bringing tropical vibes to your meal while complementing the dish’s sweetness.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables and citrus dressing balances the richness of the grilled fruit, offering a healthy contrast.
• Grilled veggies: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus add color and nutrition to your plate, creating a vibrant meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying.
• Vanilla ice cream: For dessert lovers, serving grilled pineapple with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful warm-cold contrast that’s simply heavenly!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to make an unforgettable grilled pineapple experience that will leave everyone coming back for more! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This grilled pineapple recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious grilled fruit any time you crave something sweet. Here’s how to store leftovers, freeze them for later, and reheat them when you’re ready to indulge!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Enjoy it cold or use it as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.

Freezing

• Ensure the grilled pineapple is completely cooled before freezing.
• Arrange the pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the frozen pineapple directly on a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
• Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 30-60 seconds until heated but not overly soft.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about grilled pineapple that might help enhance your cooking experience!

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

While fresh pineapple offers the best flavor and texture after grilling, canned pineapple can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain it well and pat it dry before grilling.

How do I add more flavor to my grilled pineapple?

You can experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for a kick. Also, consider adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before grilling for extra sweetness!

What is the best way to serve grilled pineapple?

Grilled pineapple is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or even as a topping on pancakes or waffles.

Is grilled pineapple healthy?

Absolutely! Grilled pineapple is a low-calorie dessert option that’s rich in vitamins and minerals. It’s also naturally sweet without added sugars if served plain.

How long does grilled pineapple last in the fridge?

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

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful grilled pineapple! It’s such a simple yet satisfying dessert that brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as an evening treat with family, this recipe is bound to bring smiles all around. Happy grilling, and don’t forget to come back and share your experience!