Oh my goodness, let me tell you about grilled pineapple! This delightful dessert is like a tropical vacation on a plate. The sweet, caramelized exterior combined with the juicy, tender inside makes it simply irresistible. I remember the first time I had grilled pineapple at a backyard barbecue. The smoky flavor mingled with the sweetness made my taste buds dance! It’s such a unique dessert, perfect for summer gatherings or even a cozy weeknight treat. Plus, it’s so quick and easy to whip up! Trust me, once you try this grilled pineapple, you’ll want to make it again and again. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients List
- 1 whole pineapple, peeled and cut into thick slices
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
How to Prepare Grilled Pineapple Instructions
- First things first, preheat your grill to medium heat. This is crucial for getting that perfect caramelization on your pineapple!
- While the grill heats up, grab your pineapple and slice it into thick rings, about ¾ inch thick. This thickness helps it hold its shape while grilling.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined. This will add a lovely sweetness and warmth to your grilled pineapple.
- Now, brush each slice of pineapple generously with honey and melted butter. This not only adds flavor but helps the sugar mixture adhere beautifully.
- Sprinkle the sugar and cinnamon mixture over both sides of the pineapple slices, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Once your grill is ready, carefully place the pineapple slices on it. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see those lovely grill marks and the pineapple is tender. Keep an eye on them; you don’t want them to burn!
- Remove the slices from the grill and let them cool slightly before serving warm. They’re absolutely heavenly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for last-minute desserts!
- Deliciously tropical flavor that transports you to a sunny beach.
- Versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with ice cream or yogurt.
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free, it caters to various dietary needs.
- A fun way to impress guests at summer barbecues or gatherings.
Tips for Success
To make the perfect grilled pineapple, always start with a ripe pineapple—look for one that’s slightly soft to the touch and has a sweet aroma. This will ensure your dessert is bursting with flavor! If you like it sweeter, feel free to add more brown sugar or honey to the mix; just remember to adjust according to your taste!
When grilling, make sure not to overcrowd the grill; give each slice enough space to caramelize beautifully. And here’s a fun tip: try adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for a little twist! Serve your grilled pineapple warm, either on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yogurt. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to jazz up your grilled pineapple! For a cozy twist, sprinkle a bit of nutmeg or ground ginger along with the cinnamon for a warm, spicy kick. You can also try pairing your grilled pineapple with other fruits—sliced peaches or mangoes grill beautifully and complement the pineapple perfectly!
Feeling extra indulgent? Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top or sprinkle crushed nuts for a delightful crunch. The possibilities are endless! Don’t hesitate to get creative and let your taste buds lead the way. You’ll be amazed at the delicious combinations you can create!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Store your grilled pineapple slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re cooled down before sealing them up to prevent condensation!
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat the slices on the grill for a minute or two on each side to bring back that delicious warmth and smoky flavor. Alternatively, you can pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it, or they’ll get mushy. Enjoy every tasty bite!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one slice of grilled pineapple. Each serving contains about 80 calories, 3g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein. It also has around 14g of sugar and just 1mg of sodium, making it a sweet treat without the guilt! Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on the size of your pineapple. Enjoy this delicious dessert while knowing it’s a lighter option!
FAQ Section
Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe? While fresh pineapple truly shines with its juicy texture and vibrant flavor, you can use canned pineapple in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well and pat it dry before grilling, or it might get a bit too mushy!
What’s the best way to grill pineapple if I don’t have an outdoor grill? No worries! You can easily use a grill pan on your stovetop or even a broiler in your oven. Just keep an eye on it, as cooking times may vary. You still want those beautiful grill marks and caramelization!
What can I serve with grilled pineapple? Oh, the possibilities are endless! Grilled pineapple is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of honey, or even some yogurt. It also makes a delicious addition to a fruit salad or as a topping for pancakes!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can grill the pineapple slices in advance and store them in the fridge. Just remember to reheat them gently before serving to enjoy that fresh-off-the-grill flavor!
How can I tell when my pineapple is ripe for grilling? Look for a pineapple that’s slightly soft to the touch and has a sweet, fragrant aroma. The leaves should also be green and fresh. A ripe pineapple will make your grilled dessert taste divine!
Learn more about the health benefits of pineapple
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Grilled Pineapple: 5 Irresistible Ways to Savor Summer
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Grilled pineapple is a delicious and simple dessert that adds a tropical twist to your meal.
Ingredients
- 1 whole pineapple
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Cut the pineapple into thick slices.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Brush pineapple slices with honey and melted butter.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the pineapple.
- Place pineapple on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from grill and serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste.
- Pair with ice cream or yogurt for a treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: grilled pineapple, dessert, tropical fruit