Sweet & Smoky Caramelized Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple Recipe

Sweet summer memories dance through my kitchen whenever I prepare this caramelized brown sugar grilled pineapple delight.

Charred edges bring incredible depth to succulent fruit slices.

Tropical sunshine bursts from each glistening wedge with unexpected complexity.

Simple ingredients merge into something magical on the grill’s searing surface.

Smoke and sweetness weave together, creating a sensory experience that feels both rustic and elegant.

Unexpected spices add intricate layers of warmth to the caramelized fruit.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this vibrant dessert that celebrates summer’s delicious bounty.

Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple Full of Sweet Char

• Quick Summer Delight: Transforms ordinary pineapple into a gourmet dessert with minimal effort in just minutes.
• Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Perfect for backyard barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings where everyone craves a sweet treat.
• Healthy-ish Indulgence: Offers a naturally sweet dessert option that feels decadent yet contains nutritious fruit and simple ingredients.

The Sweet Simplicity of Caramelized Pineapple

Main Ingredients:

Pineapple: A sweet tropical fruit that becomes wonderfully caramelized and tender when grilled, perfect for a delightful dessert or side dish. Fresh, ripe pineapple works best for maximum flavor and juiciness.

• Brown Sugar, Butter, Cinnamon: A sweet and warm mixture that creates a rich caramelized coating for the pineapple. Brown sugar adds deep sweetness, butter helps with caramelization, and cinnamon provides a warm, aromatic touch. Ground cinnamon is optional but recommended for extra depth of flavor.

Grilled Pineapple Caramelized Method

Step 1: Prep the Pineapple

Grab a fresh, ripe pineapple and slice it into beautiful rings or long, elegant spears.

Make sure your cuts are even and smooth, creating perfect surfaces for grilling.

Step 2: Create Sweet Coating Mixture

• Brown sugar
• Melted butter
• Ground cinnamon (optional but recommended)

Stir these ingredients until they form a luscious, glossy mixture that will caramelize beautifully on the grill.

Step 3: Generously Brush Pineapple

Using a pastry brush, lovingly coat both sides of each pineapple slice with the sweet mixture.

Ensure every inch is covered for maximum flavor and caramelization.

Step 4: Fire Up the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking and create those gorgeous grill marks.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Place the coated pineapple slices directly on the hot grill.

Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, watching carefully as the sugar begins to caramelize and create a stunning golden-brown crust.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the grilled pineapple to a serving platter.

These caramelized beauties can be enjoyed on their own, as a dessert, or as a side dish to complement grilled meats or as a topping for ice cream.

Grilling Tips for Brown Sugar Pineapple Rings

• Lightly oil the grill grates before cooking to ensure easy pineapple removal and beautiful grill marks.
• Grill pineapple over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side to achieve a perfect golden-brown color and deep caramel flavor.
• Select a pineapple that's golden yellow and slightly soft when pressed for the sweetest, most delicious result.
• Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or cardamom to add unique depth to the brown sugar glaze.
• Pair grilled pineapple with vanilla ice cream, use as a topping for pancakes, or serve alongside grilled meats for a sweet-savory combination.

Grilled Pineapple Stored Properly

• Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Seal tightly to prevent absorption of other food odors.
• Warm chilled pineapple slices at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to maintain texture.
• Quickly reheat individual slices for 15-20 seconds. Check temperature to avoid overcooking and maintain juiciness.
• Enjoy cold pineapple straight from the fridge as a refreshing snack or add to yogurt, oatmeal, or desserts for extra sweetness.

Sides That Go With Grilled Pineapple

• Enhance Sweet Harmony: Pair with creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast between warm, caramelized pineapple and cold, smooth ice cream.
• Complement Tropical Flavors: Serve alongside coconut rum cocktail or a crisp mojito to amplify the tropical essence of the grilled fruit.
• Balance Richness with Refreshment: Match with a light, chilled white wine like Riesling or Gewürztraminer to cut through the sweet caramelization and provide a refreshing counterpoint.
• Elevate Dessert Experience: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or chopped macadamia nuts on top for added texture and nutty complexity that complements the caramelized sugars.

Grilled Pineapple Sweet Takes

• Low-Sugar Option: Replace brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia for a diabetic-friendly version that maintains sweetness without added calories.
• Vegan Alternative: Swap butter with coconut oil or olive oil to create a plant-based friendly grilling option that keeps the caramelized texture and flavor.
• Spiced Tropical Version: Add ground cardamom or nutmeg to the sugar mixture for an enhanced aromatic profile that elevates the traditional recipe with warm, exotic notes.
• Citrus Infusion: Incorporate orange zest or lime juice into the brown sugar mixture to introduce a bright, tangy undertone that complements the pineapple's natural sweetness.

FAQs

• What's the best way to choose a ripe pineapple?

Look for a golden-yellow color with a sweet, fragrant smell at the stem. The fruit should feel firm but have a slight give when gently squeezed.

• Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?

Brown sugar works best because it caramelizes beautifully and adds a deeper, richer flavor. Regular white sugar won’t create the same caramelized effect.

• Do I need a grill to make this recipe?

While a grill is ideal, you can also use a grill pan on the stovetop or a preheated broiler in your oven. Each method will give slightly different but delicious results.

• How long should I grill the pineapple?

Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until you see nice caramelized grill marks and the sugar starts to bubble and caramelize.

Caramelized Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple Recipe

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4.5 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 13 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling Caramelized Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple delivers tropical sweetness with a charred, golden-brown edge that elevates summer desserts. Warm spices and caramel glaze create a simple yet irresistible treat you can enjoy in minutes.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 large pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings or spears

Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)

Spices and Optional Additions:

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for a tangy finish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare a ripe, golden pineapple by carefully trimming off the tough outer skin and removing the central core, creating uniform rings or elegant lengthwise spears.
2. Create a luscious caramelization glaze by whisking together rich brown sugar, silky melted butter, and a warm hint of ground cinnamon until the mixture transforms into a smooth, glossy coating.
3. Meticulously brush the fragrant sugar mixture across every surface of the pineapple, ensuring each slice is completely and evenly covered with the sweet, glistening mixture.
4. Preheat a clean grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, allowing the cooking surface to become scorching hot and ready to impart beautiful caramelized char marks.
5. Carefully place the sugar-coated pineapple pieces onto the heated grill, positioning them to maximize direct contact with the hot surface.
6. Cook the pineapple for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, rotating strategically to develop deep golden-brown caramelization and distinctive grill marks.
7. Watch closely to prevent burning, allowing the natural sugars to transform into a rich, deeply colored exterior while maintaining the fruit’s juicy interior.
8. Remove the grilled pineapple from heat and transfer to a serving platter, letting the caramelized slices rest momentarily before presenting as a decadent dessert or vibrant side dish.

Notes

• Choose ripe, golden pineapples with a sweet aroma for the best caramelization and flavor intensity.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning if you’re using them to handle pineapple slices.
• For a dietary twist, swap butter with coconut oil to make the recipe vegan and add a tropical undertone to the grilled fruit.
• Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt after grilling to enhance the caramelized brown sugar’s depth and create a sweet-savory balance.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks, Breakfast
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 145
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 2 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg