There’s a certain charm that comes with grilling, especially when it involves the sweet, smoky essence of pineapple. Picture this: the sun dipping low on the horizon, the tantalizing aroma of brown sugar melting and caramelizing on juicy pineapple wedges, and the roar of laughter from loved ones echoing around you. This Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple recipe is more than just an easy dessert; it’s a celebration of summer vibes, transforming an ordinary fruit into a spectacular treat that’ll have everyone impressed.
Just six minutes on the grill brings out a sweetness you won’t find in fast food desserts. Whether you’re looking to elevate a backyard barbecue or simply satisfy a sweet tooth, this dish shines with its simplicity and mouthwatering flavor. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even stands alone as a light, guilt-free indulgence. Ready to elevate your next gathering with this tropical delight? Let’s fire up that grill!
Why is Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple irresistible?
Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze, taking just six minutes to grill delicious pineapple wedges.
Decadent Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and caramelization creates a sweet, smoky flavor that elevates the natural taste of pineapple.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impressive enough for gatherings, yet simple for weeknight treats, it will charm all your guests.
Versatile: Enjoy it warm as a standalone dessert or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Healthy Option: A guilt-free alternative to traditional fast food desserts, keeping your sweet cravings satisfied without the extra calories.
Perfect for Summer: The grilling process captures the essence of summer, making it an ideal addition to your BBQ menu.
Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple Ingredients
For the Pineapple
• Fresh Pineapple – Choose ripe pineapple for optimal sweetness and flavor.
• Brown Sugar – Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the natural flavors.
• Cinnamon (optional) – A sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile for those who love a hint of spice.
• Cooking Spray or Oil – Prevents sticking on the grill, ensuring beautiful grill marks.
For Serving
• Vanilla Ice Cream (optional) – Pairing with ice cream takes this dish to a whole new level of indulgence.
• Mint Leaves – A touch of fresh mint as a garnish brings a pop of color and a refreshing flavor.
A delightful treat, this Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
How to Make Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple
-
Prepare the Pineapple: Start by cutting the fresh pineapple into wedges. Aim for about 1-inch thick slices for the best grilling results. This thickness ensures they won’t fall apart on the grill!
-
Spray the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly spray the grate with cooking spray or brush with a bit of oil, preventing the pineapple from sticking and helping achieve those tantalizing grill marks.
-
Coat with Sugar: Sprinkle brown sugar generously over each side of the pineapple wedges. The sugar will caramelize beautifully, creating a sweet, smoky glaze that enhances the pineapple’s natural flavors.
-
Grill the Pineapple: Place the pineapple wedges on the grill. Grill for approximately 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they display gorgeous grill marks and become slightly tender.
-
Serve Warm: Carefully remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and serve them warm. Enjoy as is or elevate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of fresh mint for a delightful finishing touch.
Optional: Drizzle with honey for an extra layer of sweetness before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple wedges are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can cut and coat the pineapple with brown sugar up to 24 hours in advance. Simply place the coated wedges in an airtight container and refrigerate to maintain their sweetness and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to impress your guests, just preheat your grill and grill the pineapple wedges for approximately 3 minutes on each side until beautifully caramelized. This method not only ensures a quick, delicious dessert but also retains that irresistible flavor and texture, making it just as delightful as if you had grilled them fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple
Fridge: Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Wrap grilled pineapple wedges in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best flavor, reheat on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This helps retain that delightful grilled texture.
Servings: If you’ve made extra grilled brown sugar glazed pineapple for a gathering, it also makes for a tasty addition to smoothies or fruit salads when stored properly!
What to Serve with Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple?
Ready to create a memorable feast that highlights the charm of summer evenings?
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy contrast of rich vanilla ice cream enhances the sweetness of the grilled pineapple, creating a guilty pleasure.
- Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness and creamy texture of coconut rice beautifully complement the caramelized fruit, offering a tropical touch.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Juicy, smoky shrimp pair perfectly with the sweet notes of pineapple, making for a delightful surf-and-turf experience.
- Fresh Mint Salad: A refreshing mint salad with citrus dressing adds brightness, balancing the dish’s sweetness and bringing an aromatic freshness.
- Pineapple Mojito: A crisp, refreshing mojito with fresh mint and lime will enhance the tropical vibes of your meal, making each sip a delight.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the grilled pineapple adds a rich, decadent touch that elevates this dessert to gourmet status.
- Hibiscus Iced Tea: The tart, floral notes of hibiscus tea create a contrasting flavor, cleansing the palate and highlighting the dessert’s sweetness.
- Lime Wedge: A squeeze of fresh lime over the grilled pineapple enhances its natural flavor and adds a zesty kick, making each bite more vibrant.
Expert Tips for Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple
- Choose Ripe Pineapple: Opt for a fresh, ripe pineapple to ensure maximum sweetness. Look for a golden hue and a sweet aroma.
- Sugar Distribution: Be generous but even when sprinkling the brown sugar. This ensures all sides caramelize, creating that irresistible glaze.
- Mind the Heat: Grill at medium heat to achieve nice grill marks without burning the sugar. Too high could scorch your delicious Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple.
- Thickness Matters: Cut wedges about 1-inch thick; too thin and they may fall apart, too thick and they won’t caramelize well.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve warm and consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey for an indulgent treat everyone will love!
Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful dish to suit your tastebuds and dietary needs!
-
Coconut Sugar: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar for a more wholesome flavor. It offers a similar caramelization with added depth.
-
Spicy Kick: For a heat twist, sprinkle chili powder or cayenne pepper on the pineapple before grilling. It creates a tantalizing sweet and spicy dance on your palate.
-
Honey Glaze: Instead of brown sugar, drizzle honey on the wedges prior to grilling. The honey caramelizes beautifully, adding a lush sweetness.
-
Grilled Cinnamon Pineapple: Sprinkle cinnamon on each wedge after applying the sugar. The warm spices enhance the tropical flavors, making it feel cozy and comforting.
-
Vanilla Infusion: Brush the pineapple wedges with a vanilla extract mixture before grilling. This elevates the sweetness and brings an aromatic twist.
-
Add Citrus: Squeeze fresh lime or orange juice over the pineapple slices. The acidity brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
-
Herb Infusion: Try fresh basil or mint as a garnish after grilling. This adds an unexpected but delightful herbal note that complements the sweetness.
-
Nutty Crunch: Before serving, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or almonds over the grilled pineapple. The added texture and flavor give it a satisfying crunch.
Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe pineapple?
Absolutely! When selecting a fresh pineapple, look for one that’s plump and heavy for its size. A ripe pineapple will have a sweet fragrance at the base and a golden hue at the bottom. Avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles, as these indicators suggest overripeness. If the leaves at the crown pull out easily, that’s a good sign it’s ready to enjoy!
How should I store leftover grilled pineapple?
Very easy! Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the pineapple to cool completely before sealing the container to help maintain its freshness and prevent it from becoming mushy.
Can I freeze grilled pineapple?
Yes, indeed! To freeze grilled pineapple, start by wrapping individual wedges in plastic wrap or aluminum foil tightly. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. This way, your delightful grilled brown sugar glazed pineapple can last in the freezer for up to 3 months!
What’s the best way to reheat grilled pineapple?
To reheat grilled pineapple while preserving its deliciousness, I suggest either popping it back on the grill for a couple of minutes or warming it gently in a skillet over medium heat. This method keeps the pineapple’s texture juicy and flavorful! You can even add a sprinkle of cinnamon while reheating for an extra hint of spice.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know?
Indeed! This grilled pineapple recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it a universally delightful choice. For those monitoring their sugar intake, consider using less brown sugar or trying a sugar substitute. Additionally, if you’re preparing it for pets, while pineapple is safe for dogs in moderation, avoid adding any sugar or other toppings that could upset their stomachs. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure!
How can I use leftover grilled pineapple in other dishes?
Great question! Leftover grilled pineapple can be a fabulous add-in for smoothies, lending a tropical twist to your morning routine. You could also chop it up and mix it into fruit salads, or even use it as a topping on yogurt or oatmeal. The possibilities are as endless as your culinary creativity!
Grilled Brown Sugar Glazed Pineapple for Sweet Summer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting the fresh pineapple into wedges, about 1-inch thick.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly spray the grate with cooking spray or brush with oil.
- Sprinkle brown sugar generously over each side of the pineapple wedges.
- Place the pineapple wedges on the grill and grill for about 3 minutes on each side.
- Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream and fresh mint.