Caramelized Pineapple on Grill

This simple grilled pineapple transforms a humble tropical fruit into a caramelized delight that works equally well as a side dish or dessert. The heat of the grill intensifies the natural sweetness while adding smoky complexity, making it the perfect finishing touch to any summer meal.

I first made these grilled pineapple slices for a backyard barbecue when I needed a quick dessert. The guests were so impressed by the simple transformation that now I keep a pineapple on hand whenever I fire up the grill.

Ingredients

• Fresh pineapple Provides the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Look for one that smells fragrant at the base and has some give when gently pressed.
• Brown sugar Optional but creates that irresistible caramelization. Dark brown sugar has even more molasses flavor if you have it.
• Coconut oil or vegetable oil Prevents sticking and adds a subtle flavor. Coconut oil particularly complements the tropical notes.
• Ground cinnamon Optional warming spice that pairs beautifully with the sweetness. Just a little goes a long way.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the pineapple

First select a ripe pineapple, then remove the outer skin completely using a sharp knife. Cut off the top and bottom, then slice into rings about half an inch thick. Use a small round cookie cutter or knife to remove the tough core from each slice for easier eating.

Create the coating

Combine the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl until well mixed. This sweet spiced mixture will create that beautiful caramelization on the fruit. For a less sweet version, you can skip this step and grill the pineapple plain.

Apply the oil

Lightly brush each pineapple ring on both sides with melted coconut oil or vegetable oil. This prevents sticking and helps the sugar adhere. Be careful not to oversaturate as too much oil can cause flare-ups on the grill.

Add the sweet layer

Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over both sides of each pineapple slice. Pat it gently to help it adhere to the fruit surface. The sugar will melt into the pineapple as it grills.

Preheat and oil the grill

Heat your grill to medium-high heat about 375-400°F. When hot, lightly oil the grates with an oil-soaked paper towel held with tongs to prevent sticking.

Grill to perfection

Place pineapple rings on the preheated grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. Look for clear grill marks and a slight softening of the fruit. The sugar will caramelize and may bubble a bit when properly done.

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My family's favorite way to enjoy this recipe is actually for breakfast. I serve the warm grilled pineapple over Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of granola. The contrast of temperatures and textures makes for an unforgettable start to the day.

Selecting the Perfect Pineapple

The success of this recipe relies heavily on starting with a good pineapple. Look for one with a golden color that yields slightly to pressure but isn't soft. The leaves should be fresh and green, not dried out. A ripe pineapple will have a sweet fragrance at the base. If your pineapple isn't quite ripe, let it sit at room temperature for a day or two before grilling. Contrary to popular belief, pulling leaves from the crown isn't a reliable ripeness indicator.

Sweet and Savory Pairings

While delicious on its own, grilled pineapple makes an exceptional companion to many dishes. For a savory application, serve alongside grilled teriyaki chicken, ham, or fish tacos. The sweetness balances spicy or salty main courses beautifully. As a dessert, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut sorbet and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. For brunch, try serving with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.

Indoor Cooking Options

No grill? No problem. You can achieve similar results using a cast iron grill pan on your stovetop. Heat the pan to medium-high and follow the same instructions. Alternatively, broil the pineapple slices on a baking sheet for 3-4 minutes per side, watching carefully to prevent burning. The caramelization won't be identical, but the flavor will still be delicious.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I know when my pineapple is ripe enough for grilling?

A ripe pineapple will have a sweet aroma at the base, slight give when squeezed, and golden-yellow color developing from the bottom up. Avoid pineapples with soft spots or an overly fermented smell. For grilling, a slightly firm but ripe pineapple works best as it holds its shape while still caramelizing beautifully.

→ Can I grill pineapple without added sugar?

Absolutely! Pineapple naturally contains enough sugars to caramelize beautifully on the grill without any additional sweeteners. Simply brush with a little oil to prevent sticking and grill until marked. This makes for a lighter option that still delivers wonderful flavor and can be enjoyed by those watching their sugar intake.

→ How do I prevent pineapple from sticking to the grill?

To prevent sticking, ensure your grill grates are clean and properly preheated. Lightly oil both the grates and the pineapple slices before grilling. Don't try to flip the pineapple too early - it should release naturally from the grates when it's developed proper grill marks, usually after 3-4 minutes per side.

→ What can I serve with grilled pineapple?

As a side dish, grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with grilled pork, chicken, or seafood. For dessert, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream, a drizzle of honey, and fresh mint. It's also excellent in tropical-inspired salads, on burgers, or chopped and added to salsas for a sweet-savory contrast.

→ Can I grill pineapple indoors?

Yes! While outdoor grilling imparts the best smoky flavor, you can achieve similar results indoors using a grill pan on high heat. Ensure good ventilation, preheat the pan thoroughly, and follow the same cooking instructions. A cast-iron grill pan works best for creating distinct grill marks and caramelization.

→ How thick should I cut the pineapple slices?

For optimal grilling, cut pineapple slices approximately 1/2-inch thick. Thinner slices may cook too quickly and fall apart, while thicker slices might not cook through completely. Uniform thickness ensures even cooking and caramelization across all your pineapple pieces.