Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Brown Sugar is a simple, sweet treat that’s perfect for any time you want a little something special. The pineapple gets a nice char on the grill, which makes it juicy and smoky, while the brown sugar melts into a sticky, caramel-like glaze. It’s a delicious balance of tangy fruit and sweet caramel that’s hard to resist.
I love making this when I’m having a BBQ or just want a light dessert. The best part is how easy it is to prepare—just slice the pineapple, sprinkle brown sugar on top, and grill it until the sugar bubbles and browns. I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon for a little extra flavor, but it’s fantastic all on its own too.
My favorite way to enjoy this is warm, right off the grill, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s one of those dishes that makes everyone smile, and I always find myself going back for another slice. Plus, it’s a great way to bring a tropical twist to your meals without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Pineapple: Choose ripe pineapple that smells sweet and feels slightly soft. Fresh is best for grilling since canned pineapple melts easily. If fresh isn’t available, thick canned slices can work but grill gently.
Brown Sugar: I love using dark brown sugar for deeper flavor, but light brown sugar suits this recipe too. For a lower-sugar option, try coconut sugar or a natural sweetener like maple syrup, though caramelizing might vary.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and helps caramelize the sugar. For dairy-free, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute—both work well with this recipe.
Cinnamon & Vanilla: These extras add warm spice and aroma. They’re optional but I recommend trying cinnamon for a cozy flavor twist.
How Do I Get Beautiful Caramelized Grill Marks Without Burning the Sugar?
Caramelizing brown sugar on pineapple is quick, and sugar burns fast, so watch closely. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high, not max heat. Too hot means sugar burns before pineapple cooks.
- Brush pineapple with the sugar-butter glaze just before grilling.
- Grill 3–4 minutes per side, watching for bubbling sugar and nice grill marks.
- Baste occasionally but avoid thick layers that drip and burn.
- If flare-ups happen, move slices to a cooler spot and keep an eye.
This balance creates tender fruit with sticky, caramelized edges—not burnt sugar. It’s all about timing and heat control!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I prefer a grill because it gives that smoky flavor and perfect char marks.
- Small mixing bowl – for mixing the caramelizing glaze, making it easy to coat the pineapple evenly.
- Basting brush – helps you apply extra glaze during grilling for extra flavor and caramelization.
- Spatula or tongs – to turn the pineapple slices carefully without breaking them.
- Serving platter – a nice plate to present the freshly grilled pineapple, ready to serve.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Sprinkle a little chili powder or cayenne on the pineapple before grilling to add a spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Add a splash of rum or orange liqueur to the glaze for a boozy, citrus twist.
- Top with shredded coconut or chopped nuts for extra crunch and tropical flair.
- Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile with a hint of caramel flavor.
Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Brown Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into ½-inch thick rings
- ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh mint or chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 8-10 minutes to grill the pineapple. It’s a quick and easy dessert that brings a wonderful caramelized flavor to fresh pineapple.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Set your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Let it warm up well before placing the pineapple on it. This helps you get nice grill marks and caramelization.
2. Make the Caramelizing Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon (if using), vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until combined to make a rich, sweet glaze.
3. Coat the Pineapple Slices:
Dip each pineapple ring into the glaze, making sure both sides are evenly coated. Keep some glaze aside for basting while grilling.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple slices on the hot grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Baste with the reserved glaze as they cook. Watch carefully so the sugar caramelizes nicely without burning. You want tender pineapple with beautiful caramelized grill marks.
5. Serve:
Remove the pineapple slices from the grill and place them on a serving plate. Spoon any leftover glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh mint or parsley if you like. Serve warm, and enjoy as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special treat.
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
You can, but fresh pineapple grills better and holds its shape. If using canned, choose thick slices, pat them dry, and grill gently to avoid them becoming too soft or mushy.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly on the grill or enjoy cold as a refreshing snack.
Can I Make This Dessert Vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap the butter for coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The caramelization will still turn out delicious.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Grilled Pineapple?
Serve it warm on its own or with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a tropical twist. It also pairs well with grilled meats for a sweet contrast.
