Sweet Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple Recipe For Summer Nights

Sweet summer nights call for a simple brown sugar grilled pineapple dessert that sparkles with caramelized edges and golden warmth.

Tropical flavors dance across your palate with each delectable bite of this easy treat.

The natural sugars in fresh pineapple become deeply complex when kissed by grill flames and dusted with rich brown sugar.

Charred edges create a stunning contrast against the fruit’s juicy interior, releasing an irresistible aroma that draws everyone to the table.

Minimal ingredients transform this classic fruit into an elegant dessert perfect for backyard gatherings.

Serve warm alongside vanilla ice cream for a sublime finish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What Makes Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple a Hit

• Boost Flavor Instantly: Marinating pineapple in brown sugar and cayenne creates a sweet, spicy kick that transforms ordinary fruit into an extraordinary treat.
• Quick and Easy Cooking: Grilling takes just a few minutes, making this recipe perfect for busy cooks who want delicious results without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Dessert Option: This grilled pineapple works amazingly as a standalone dessert, ice cream topping, or elegant side dish for summer barbecues and dinner parties.
• Healthy Indulgence: Packed with natural sweetness and minimal added sugar, this recipe offers a guilt-free dessert that satisfies sweet cravings while providing nutritional benefits.

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

• Pineapple Spears: Fresh and juicy tropical fruit ready for grilling.

• Brown Sugar, Cayenne, Salt: Sweet, spicy, and savory flavor enhancers.
• Vanilla Extract: Warm and aromatic flavor booster.

• Cooking Spray: Helps prevent sticking on the grill pan.

How to Grill Pineapple with Brown Sugar

Step 1: Prepare Pineapple Spears

Slice fresh pineapple into long, elegant spears.

• Brown sugar
• Cayenne pepper
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Toss the pineapple spears in the mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Step 2: Marinate and Rest

Allow the pineapple to soak up the flavors by letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

For deeper flavor, you can refrigerate overnight.

Step 3: Heat Grill Pan

Crank up your grill pan to high heat.

Lightly coat the surface with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill Pineapple

Place the marinated pineapple spears on the hot grill pan.

Cook each side for one to two minutes until beautiful grill marks appear and edges caramelize.

Step 5: Create Syrup

While grilling, transfer the leftover marinade to a microwave-safe bowl.

Heat for 90 seconds until the liquid transforms into a bubbly, rich syrup.

Step 6: Serve and Drizzle

Transfer the grilled pineapple to a serving platter.

Generously drizzle the warm syrup over the spears just before presenting to your guests.

Tips for Juicy Grilled Pineapple

• Let the pineapple sit in the brown sugar mixture for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor absorption and develop deeper, more complex taste profiles.
• Use high heat and a grill pan sprayed with cooking spray to achieve beautiful caramelized grill marks without sticking.
• Microwave the leftover marinade to create a rich, bubbly syrup that adds an extra layer of sweetness when drizzled over the grilled pineapple.
• Marinate at room temperature for quick results or refrigerate overnight for a more intense flavor development.
• Grill pineapple spears for just one to two minutes per side to maintain a tender texture while creating delicious caramelized edges.

How to Store and Warm Grilled Pineapple Leftovers

• Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent burning.
• Chop cold pineapple into yogurt, blend into smoothies, or add to morning oatmeal for a sweet twist.
• Place in freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month, best used in baking or smoothies after freezing.

What to Eat with Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

• Pair Creamy Rum Ice Cream: Create a smooth, rich rum-infused ice cream that complements the caramelized sweetness of the grilled pineapple, highlighting tropical flavor notes.
• Match Coconut Cocktail: Blend a refreshing coconut mojito or daiquiri that echoes the pineapple's tropical essence, using white rum and fresh mint for a vibrant drink pairing.
• Serve Spicy Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a homemade caramel sauce with a hint of sea salt and mild cayenne pepper, enhancing the pineapple's sweet-spicy grilled character.
• Garnish with Toasted Macadamia Nuts: Sprinkle crushed, lightly toasted macadamia nuts over the dessert for a crunchy texture and nutty undertone that complements the grilled fruit.

Flavor Variations for Grilled Pineapple

• Tropical Spice Fusion: Replace cayenne with garam masala for an Indian-inspired warm, complex flavor profile that adds depth to the grilled pineapple.
• Vegan Coconut Delight: Swap vanilla extract with coconut extract and use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a dairy-free, plant-based version that enhances tropical notes.
• Low-Sugar Wellness Option: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of brown sugar for a diabetic-friendly and low-carb alternative that maintains the recipe's delicious essence.
• Herb-Infused Grilled Pineapple: Add fresh chopped mint or basil to the marinade for a refreshing, aromatic variation that brings bright, herbaceous undertones to the grilled fruit.

FAQs

• How do I choose the right pineapple for this recipe?

Look for a pineapple that’s golden-yellow with a sweet aroma at the base. It should be firm but give slightly when pressed. Avoid pineapples with soft spots or dark brown patches.

• Can I use ground cayenne pepper instead of whole cayenne?

Yes, you can use ground cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount (about 1/4 teaspoon) and adjust to your spice preference. Ground cayenne distributes more evenly in the marinade.

• What if I don't have a grill pan?

You can use a cast-iron skillet or outdoor grill as alternatives. The key is to have a hot surface that will create nice grill marks and caramelize the brown sugar on the pineapple.

• Is the marinade necessary for this recipe?

The marinade is crucial as it helps infuse flavor and helps caramelize the pineapple. The brown sugar, cayenne, vanilla, and salt create a complex taste that elevates the grilled fruit.

Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple Recipe

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4.8 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Succulent brown sugar grilled pineapple caramelizes sweet tropical flavors with a smoky twist. Warm island-style dessert beckons with irresistible golden edges that melt in your mouth.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 fresh whole pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 spears

Seasoning:

• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Preparation:

• Vegetable oil spray for grill

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

1. Prepare pineapple spears by cutting into uniform, elegant wedges for even grilling and attractive presentation.
2. Create a vibrant marinade by thoroughly blending brown sugar, cayenne, vanilla extract, and salt in a spacious mixing bowl.
3. Gently coat pineapple spears with the seasoned mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly and generously covered.
4. Allow pineapple to rest and absorb flavors, either at ambient temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper infusion.
5. Heat grill pan to high temperature, lightly coating surface with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
6. Position pineapple spears diagonally on hot grill pan, creating distinctive caramelized grill marks for enhanced visual appeal.
7. Rotate and grill each side for approximately one to two minutes, monitoring closely to achieve golden-brown caramelization without burning.
8. While pineapple grills, transform remaining marinade into a glossy syrup by microwaving until bubbling and slightly thickened.
9. Transfer grilled pineapple to an elegant serving platter, drizzling warm marinade syrup over the top for a final flourish of flavor and shine.

Notes

• Select ripe, golden-yellow pineapples for the most intense sweet and caramelized flavor when grilling.
• Slice pineapple spears evenly to ensure consistent cooking and beautiful grill marks across all pieces.
• Experiment with adding cinnamon or rum to the marinade for enhanced depth and complexity in the final dish.
• Serve immediately after grilling to preserve the warm, juicy texture and maximize the caramelized brown sugar coating.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks, Breakfast
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 0.2g
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg