Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Brown Sugar is proof that simple ingredients can create stunning results. Juicy pineapple slices are grilled to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness, then glazed with caramelized brown sugar and a hint of butter for a glossy, golden finish. The result is a tropical dessert (or side dish) that’s smoky, sweet, and utterly irresistible. I tried this once using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar, and it added a light, toffee-like flavor that paired beautifully with the charred pineapple. Whether you serve it as a refreshing dessert, alongside grilled meats, or even over vanilla ice cream, this dish will instantly transport you to a sunny paradise — no fancy prep required.
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Easy Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Brown Sugar: A Tropical Treat in Minutes
- Total Time: 16 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Easy Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Brown Sugar is a simple tropical dessert featuring juicy pineapple slices grilled to perfection and coated in a sweet, buttery brown sugar glaze. Perfect for summer barbecues or a quick, light treat after dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or spears
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, melted butter, honey (if using), cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to create a glaze.
- Brush the glaze generously over both sides of the pineapple slices.
- Place the pineapple on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the sugar begins to caramelize.
- Remove from heat and brush with any remaining glaze.
- Serve warm as a dessert, side dish, or topping for ice cream, yogurt, or pancakes.
Notes
- For a more intense caramel flavor, sprinkle extra brown sugar directly on the pineapple while grilling.
- Add a splash of rum or vanilla extract to the glaze for a gourmet twist.
- Pairs perfectly with coconut ice cream or whipped cream.
- Use canned pineapple slices if fresh isn’t available — just pat them dry before grilling.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 6 mins
- Category: Dessert, Side Dish
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Tropical / American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Fresh pineapple – Choose a ripe pineapple with golden skin and a sweet aroma. Cut it into rings or spears for easy grilling. Fresh pineapple caramelizes better than canned, giving that authentic smoky-sweet flavor.
Brown sugar – The key to that rich caramelized glaze. It melts beautifully, coating the pineapple with a deep, molasses-like sweetness.
Butter – Adds richness and helps the sugar melt evenly into a smooth, glossy caramel coating.
Cinnamon – A touch of warm spice that enhances the pineapple’s natural sweetness and depth.
Vanilla extract – Infuses the caramel glaze with a subtle aromatic note that elevates the dessert.
Lime juice – A quick squeeze of lime juice adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
Salt – Just a pinch sharpens the flavors and brings out the pineapple’s natural tang.
Honey or maple syrup (optional) – Drizzle lightly after grilling for extra sheen and sweetness if desired.
Directions
Begin by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Set aside.
Slice the pineapple into rings or long spears, discarding the tough core if desired. Brush each piece generously with the caramelized brown sugar mixture on both sides.
Place the pineapple pieces directly on the hot grill. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the edges start to caramelize. Brush with more glaze as they cook for an even richer coating.
Once the pineapple is beautifully charred and caramelized, remove it from the grill and drizzle lightly with lime juice. For extra decadence, drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving.
Serve warm as a dessert with vanilla ice cream, or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or pork for a tropical twist.
Equipment needed
Grill or grill pan
Tongs or spatula
Small saucepan
Pastry brush
Sharp knife and cutting board
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes or microwave briefly. Avoid overcooking, as it may soften too much. You can also enjoy it cold — it’s delicious in salads, yogurt bowls, or smoothies.
Variations and Customizations
Coconut Rum Pineapple
Add a splash of coconut rum to the caramel mixture for a tropical, adults-only treat.
Spicy Grilled Pineapple
Sprinkle a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy kick.
Coconut Sugar Glaze
Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a lighter, caramel-toffee flavor.
Mint-Lime Pineapple
Top with fresh mint leaves and a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing, zesty version.
Coconut Cream Pineapple
Serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free dessert option.
Vanilla Ice Cream Topping
Pair warm grilled pineapple with a scoop of vanilla ice cream — the hot-and-cold contrast is irresistible.
Cinnamon-Banana Mix
Grill sliced bananas alongside the pineapple for a double tropical dessert.
Honey-Glazed Pineapple
Replace brown sugar with honey for a floral sweetness and golden color.
Caramel Pineapple Sundae
Layer grilled pineapple pieces with caramel sauce, nuts, and ice cream for a stunning sundae.
Savory Pineapple Skewers
Alternate pineapple chunks with chicken or shrimp on skewers and glaze them for a sweet-savory main course.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, but fresh pineapple gives better texture and flavor. Pat canned slices dry before grilling.
What’s the best way to cut the pineapple?
Peel it, remove the core, and slice into ½-inch-thick rings or long spears for grilling.
Can I use a stovetop grill pan?
Absolutely. A cast-iron grill pan works great for achieving nice sear marks indoors.
Do I need to oil the grill?
Yes, lightly oiling prevents the pineapple from sticking or tearing.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly option.
How do I know when the pineapple is done?
When grill marks appear and the edges are caramelized and golden, it’s ready.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance and reheat gently before brushing onto the pineapple.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free — just double-check your vanilla extract brand.
Can I add alcohol for flavor?
A splash of rum or bourbon pairs beautifully with the caramelized pineapple.
What can I serve with it?
It’s perfect with grilled meats, ice cream, pancakes, or yogurt parfaits.
Conclusion
This Easy Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Brown Sugar is the ultimate quick dessert — simple, elegant, and bursting with tropical flavor. The caramel glaze adds a glossy finish that perfectly complements the smoky-sweet pineapple. Whether served warm off the grill or chilled with ice cream, it’s a versatile treat that brings a taste of summer to your table any time of year. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again — because sometimes, the simplest desserts are truly the most spectacular.
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