Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Brown Sugar

Grilled pineapple with caramelized brown sugar is a tropical treat that perfectly balances sweetness and smoky depth. The natural sugars in the fruit intensify as they grill, creating a glossy, golden-brown exterior with subtle hints of cinnamon and rum. The result is a juicy, caramelized bite that melts in your mouth with every taste.

This versatile dish is perfect as a standalone dessert, a topping for vanilla ice cream, or even a side for grilled meats. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just craving something fruity and indulgent, this grilled pineapple recipe is an easy yet impressive addition to any meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 fresh pineapple

• ¼ cup butter, melted

• ¼ cup dark brown sugar

• ¼ cup dark rum (optional)

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple and remove the rind. Slice into ¾-1 inch spears or rings. If using rings, remove the core with a small cutter.

2. Place the pineapple pieces into a large zip-top bag.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, rum (if using), cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

4. Pour the marinade over the pineapple, seal the bag, and gently toss to coat. Marinate in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.

5. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat (375-400°F). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.

6. Grill the pineapple slices for 4-6 minutes per side, brushing with extra marinade as they cook.

7. Once caramelized with light grill marks, transfer to a platter and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Brown Sugar

Grilled pineapple is a simple yet irresistible treat that brings out the best in this tropical fruit. The natural sugars caramelize beautifully over the heat, enhancing the pineapple’s sweetness while adding a delicious smoky depth. When paired with brown sugar, butter, and a hint of cinnamon, this dish transforms into a mouthwatering delicacy perfect for summer barbecues, casual gatherings, or even a quick indulgent snack.

Whether served on its own, as a dessert with ice cream, or as a complement to grilled meats, this grilled pineapple recipe is a must try for anyone looking to enjoy the bright, tropical flavors of summer. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special, its health benefits, serving ideas, and expert tips to achieve the perfect caramelized finish.

Why Grilled Pineapple is So Popular

Grilled pineapple has gained popularity worldwide because of its simplicity, versatility, and delightful contrast of flavors. The smoky char from grilling enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness, creating an irresistible combination of caramelized crispness and juicy tenderness.

Here’s why people love it:

• Natural Sweetness – Pineapple is already rich in natural sugars, and grilling it intensifies the sweetness, making it taste even more decadent.

• Caramelized Goodness – Brown sugar and butter add a luxurious caramelized coating that enhances the tropical flavors.

• Smoky and Sweet Balance – The slight smokiness from the grill balances out the sweetness, giving the dish depth and complexity.

• Easy to Make – With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes on the grill, this dish is one of the simplest ways to impress guests.

• Endless Versatility – It can be served as a dessert, a side dish, or even a topping for burgers, tacos, or salads.

The Secret to Perfect Caramelization

Caramelization is the key to getting that rich, golden-brown glaze on your grilled pineapple. This happens when the natural sugars in the pineapple, combined with the added brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon, react to heat and transform into a glossy, slightly crispy coating.

A few tips to achieve the best caramelization:

• Use ripe but firm pineapple – Overripe pineapple can become too soft and mushy when grilled, while underripe pineapple won’t be as sweet.

• Preheat the grill properly – A hot grill (around 375-400°F) ensures that the pineapple sears quickly, locking in the juices and caramelizing the sugars.

• Brush with the marinade while grilling – This keeps the pineapple moist while allowing the sugars to build up a sticky, flavorful crust.

• Avoid overcooking – Too much heat for too long can burn the sugar and turn the pineapple bitter. Aim for a light char while keeping the center juicy.

Health Benefits of Grilled Pineapple

While this dish is indulgent, it also offers several health benefits thanks to the nutritional profile of pineapple:

• Rich in Vitamin C – Pineapple is packed with vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.

• Aids Digestion – Bromelain, a natural enzyme found in pineapple, helps break down proteins and supports digestion.

• Low in Calories – Despite its sweetness, pineapple is relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free treat when enjoyed in moderation.

• Provides Antioxidants – The antioxidants in pineapple help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Creative Ways to Serve Grilled Pineapple

One of the best things about grilled pineapple is its versatility. Here are some creative serving ideas:

As a Dessert:

• Serve warm grilled pineapple rings over vanilla ice cream for a simple yet decadent treat.

• Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for an extra tropical twist.

• Top with whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon for a light, creamy contrast.

As a Side Dish:

• Pair with grilled meats like pork, chicken, or steak to add a touch of sweetness.

• Serve alongside barbecue ribs or pulled pork for a tropical BBQ vibe.

• Add it to a fresh summer salad with mixed greens, feta cheese, and a balsamic glaze.

As a Topping:

• Use grilled pineapple slices in burgers for a sweet and tangy flavor boost.

• Chop and mix into salsa with red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño for a refreshing pineapple salsa.

• Add to tacos with grilled shrimp or fish for a tropical fusion twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Pineapple

Even though grilled pineapple is easy to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result:

Using unripe or overripe pineapple – A firm yet ripe pineapple is ideal for grilling. Too ripe, and it turns mushy; too unripe, and it lacks sweetness.
Skipping the marination – Letting the pineapple soak in the brown sugar and butter mixture enhances the flavor and ensures a caramelized finish.
Not preheating the grill – A cold grill won’t sear the pineapple properly, leading to uneven caramelization.
Overcooking – Leaving pineapple on the grill for too long can burn the sugar and make it taste bitter. Aim for just enough time to get grill marks and caramelization.
Using too much sugar – Pineapple is naturally sweet, so a light coating of brown sugar is enough to enhance the flavors without overwhelming them.

Pairing Grilled Pineapple with Drinks

Grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with refreshing drinks. Here are some great beverage options to complement its flavors:

• Piña Colada – The classic coconut and rum combination enhances the tropical feel.

• Iced Coconut Water – A light, hydrating option that balances the sweetness.

• Sparkling Lemonade – The citrus acidity helps cut through the caramelized sugars.

• Mojito – The minty freshness pairs well with the smoky sweetness of the pineapple.

• Sweet Iced Tea – A Southern favorite that complements grilled pineapple’s caramel notes.

Why You Should Try This Recipe Today

Grilled pineapple with caramelized brown sugar is one of the easiest yet most impressive dishes you can make. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes on the grill, you get a dessert, snack, or side dish that bursts with tropical flavors. The natural sweetness of pineapple, combined with the smoky, caramelized crust, makes it a perfect addition to any summer meal.

Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, looking for a healthy fruit-based dessert, or simply craving something different, this recipe is a must try. It’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So fire up your grill, grab a fresh pineapple, and get ready to enjoy a taste of the tropics in every bite!