Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of summer with this delightful recipe for Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple. Elevating a simple pineapple into a sweet, caramelized treat with a touch of spice and a hint of vanilla, this dish is a surefire way to add a burst of flavor to your cookouts and family gatherings.

Every bite of this Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple brings back memories of warm evenings spent outdoors with loved ones, creating a sense of joy and celebration. The magic happens as the sugar caramelizes on the grill, infusing the pineapple with a rich, smoky sweetness that will have everyone coming back for more.

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply craving a quick and effortless dessert, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the perfect blend of tropical sweetness and savory goodness with each juicy bite of this delectable Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple.

Quick Benefits

• Deliciously Caramelized: Brown sugar caramelizes on the grill, creating a sweet and smoky flavor profile that enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the grilled pineapple on its own, with ice cream, as a side dish with grilled meats, or even in breakfast parfaits, offering a wide range of serving possibilities.
• Easy and Festive Dessert: This recipe is effortlessly simple, making it perfect for cookouts and family gatherings, providing a festive dessert option that impresses both kids and adults alike.
• Symbol of Summer Gatherings: Grilling pineapple taps into the tradition of hospitality in tropical regions, capturing the essence of summer gatherings with its sweet tangy flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe

• Easy and Festive Dessert: This recipe effortlessly transforms a simple pineapple into a caramelized treat with a kick of spice and a hint of vanilla, perfect for cookouts and family gatherings.
• Impressive Flavor: The combination of brown sugar, cayenne pepper, vanilla, and salt elevates the flavor profile, creating a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy taste that is sure to impress both kids and adults.
• Memorable Cooking Experience: Watching the sugar caramelize on the grill and involving family members in drizzling the syrup adds a fun and memorable touch, turning dessert into a kitchen celebration.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the grilled pineapple on its own, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, as a side dish with grilled meats, in tacos, or even in breakfast yogurt parfaits, showcasing its versatility.
• Cultural Significance: Grilling pineapple is a tradition in tropical regions, symbolizing hospitality and capturing the spirit of summer gatherings, making this recipe a flavorful representation of these traditions.
• Make-Ahead Option: Leftover grilled pineapple keeps well in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy the dish for up to three days. Simply reheat gently on the grill or in the microwave for juicy tenderness.
• Adaptability: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences, such as using canned pineapple, switching out the cayenne for cinnamon, or adding a smoky touch with rum or bourbon extract.
• Quick Preparation: With minimal ingredients and a short marinating time, this recipe offers a quick and easy dessert option that is sure to become a staple during grilling season.

Ingredients for Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze

Main Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.125 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 whole fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into 8 spears
• 60 grams light brown sugar
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper

To Prepare Grill

• Vegetable oil spray

Pro Tips for Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze

To ensure the best results when making Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple, it is recommended to use fresh pineapple for optimal texture and flavor. However, if fresh pineapple is not available, well-drained canned pineapple spears can be used as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly softer.

For maximum flavor infusion, marinate the pineapple spears for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before grilling. For a more intense flavor, marinate the pineapple overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the pineapple to absorb the brown sugar, vanilla, and cayenne pepper for a deliciously caramelized and spiced result.

When grilling the pineapple, ensure your grill or grill pan is preheated to high heat and lightly coated with vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking and achieve those classic grill marks. Remember that the pineapple is best enjoyed fresh off the grill but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the grill or in the microwave to retain its juicy tenderness before serving.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze

Step 1: Combine and Coat Pineapple

In a large mixing bowl, toss pineapple spears with light brown sugar, cayenne pepper, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until evenly coated.

Step 2: Marinate the Fruit

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the pineapple marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate overnight for better flavor. Save any extra marinade.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill Surface

Preheat a grill pan over high heat and lightly coat the surface with vegetable oil before grilling.

Step 4: Grill Pineapple Spears

Grill marinated pineapple spears for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, flipping once, until grill marks are visible.

Step 5: Reduce the Reserved Marinade

During grilling, transfer the reserved marinade liquid to a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 90 seconds until it thickens into a syrup.

Step 6: Plate and Finish

Place grilled pineapple on a serving platter, drizzle with warm syrup, and serve promptly.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pineapple will retain its flavor and texture well for a few days. When ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat the grilled pineapple either on the grill or in the microwave to bring back its juicy tenderness. The syrup may thicken when chilled, so allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best consistency and flavor.

For those looking to make variations to the recipe, if fresh pineapple is not available, canned pineapple spears packed in juice can be used as a substitute. Ensure to thoroughly drain the canned pineapple before grilling. Additionally, to add a smokier note, consider swapping the vanilla extract for a teaspoon of rum or bourbon extract. If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and add a pinch of cinnamon instead. These modifications allow you to customize the dish based on personal preferences while still enjoying the delightful flavors of grilled pineapple.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh pineapple is not available, canned pineapple spears packed in juice can be used as a substitute. Make sure to drain them thoroughly before grilling to prevent excess liquid. While the texture and flavor may be slightly different, canned pineapple will still caramelize and bring sweetness to the dish.

For a different flavor profile, consider swapping the vanilla extract with rum or bourbon extract to add a smokier note to the grilled pineapple. This substitution can give the dish a unique and more complex taste that complements the caramelization from the brown sugar. Experiment with different extracts to find your favorite flavor combination.

If you prefer a milder taste or want to avoid heat, you can omit the cayenne pepper and replace it with a pinch of cinnamon. This adjustment will still provide a warm and aromatic spice that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar without adding any heat. Customize the seasoning to suit your preferences and create a grilled pineapple dish that you truly enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try turning the Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple into a tropical dessert board. Arrange the caramelized pineapple spears alongside other fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, and berries. Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes and a drizzle of honey to bring all the flavors together. This vibrant and refreshing platter is perfect for summer entertaining or a light and healthy snack.

Another fun idea is to incorporate the grilled pineapple into a savory dish. Chop the caramelized pineapple and mix it with diced red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice to create a zesty pineapple salsa. Serve the salsa over grilled fish or shrimp tacos for a burst of sweet and spicy flavor. The combination of smoky grilled pineapple and fresh ingredients will take your taco night to the next level.

FAQs for Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple spears packed in juice as a substitute for fresh pineapple. Be sure to drain them thoroughly before grilling.

Can I omit the cayenne pepper if I don’t like spicy food?

Yes, you can omit the cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder taste. To add a different flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon as a substitute.

How should I store leftover grilled pineapple?

Leftover grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the grill or in the microwave to restore its juicy tenderness. Let the syrup warm to room temperature before serving, as it may thicken when chilled.

Can I prepare the pineapple in advance before grilling?

Absolutely! You can marinate the pineapple spears for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate them overnight for deeper flavor absorption before grilling. This preparation method helps enhance the taste of the grilled pineapple.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is a delightful and versatile dessert that brings a touch of tropical sweetness to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or simply treating yourself to a special dessert, this recipe is sure to impress with its caramelized goodness and burst of flavor.

So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and let the aroma of Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple fill the air. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that never fails to bring smiles and create lasting memories. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe to suit your preferences, whether it’s adjusting the heat level, swapping out flavors, or finding creative ways to enjoy the leftovers. Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.