Grilled Pineapple

Grilled Pineapple is a simple yet delicious treat that combines the natural sweetness of fresh pineapple with a rich, smoky flavor. Enhanced with a marinade of butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, this dish is a perfect dessert for any occasion. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream, and you’ve got a dessert that’s irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled pineapple is an easy and delightful dessert that brings out the fruit’s natural sweetness while adding a smoky, caramelized flavor from the grill. The buttery marinade with cinnamon and vanilla enhances the pineapple’s flavor, making it an irresistible treat for summer BBQs, casual dinners, or special occasions. Plus, it takes just 22 minutes to prepare and cook!

Ingredients

• 1 fresh pineapple

• ¼ cup butter, melted

• ¼ cup dark brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Pineapple:

1. Use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple, then remove the rind.

2. Slice the pineapple into ¾-1 inch spears or rings. Use a small cutter or knife to remove the core from the rings.

3. Place the cut pineapple into a large zip-top bag and set aside.

Make the Marinade:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is well combined.

Marinate the Pineapple:

1. Add the marinade to the pineapple in the zip-top bag and gently toss to coat the fruit.

2. Let the pineapple marinate in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Grill the Pineapple:

1. Preheat the grill or a grill pan to 375-400°F (medium heat).

2. Place the marinated pineapple on the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, brushing with the excess marinade as it cooks.

3. Grill until the pineapple is caramelized and has grill marks on both sides.

Serve:

1. Transfer the grilled pineapple to a platter and serve immediately.

2. For an extra indulgence, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 22 minutes

• Servings: 6 servings

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade for a subtle spicy kick that balances the sweetness.

• Tropical Flavor: Sprinkle the grilled pineapple with shredded coconut or top with a dollop of whipped cream for a tropical touch.

• Different Fruit: You can also try grilling other fruits, such as peaches, mangoes, or even watermelon, with the same marinade.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the pineapple gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or briefly on the grill to warm it through.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

Fresh pineapple will give the best flavor and texture, but if canned pineapple is all you have, you can use it as a substitute. Just make sure to drain the liquid well before marinating.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to toss it with the pineapple when you’re ready to grill.

Do I need to peel the pineapple?

Yes, removing the rind (the tough outer layer) is essential before grilling the pineapple. It ensures that the fruit cooks evenly and has a nice, caramelized exterior.

Can I grill the pineapple without marinating it first?

While marinating adds extra flavor, you can grill the pineapple without it. Just drizzle the pineapple with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar before grilling for a simpler version.

How do I know when the pineapple is done?

The pineapple is ready when it has nice grill marks on both sides and the sugar in the marinade has caramelized. It should be slightly softened but still have some bite.

Conclusion

Grilled Pineapple is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dessert that combines the sweetness of pineapple with a smoky, caramelized finish. The rich marinade of butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla makes each bite absolutely irresistible. Whether you serve it with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy it on its own, this dessert is the perfect end to any meal!

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