Brown sugar grilled pineapple is a simple yet irresistible dessert that combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with a touch of caramelization from the grill. With just a few ingredients, this recipe transforms fresh pineapple spears into a delightful treat perfect for warm weather or outdoor BBQs. The brown sugar helps to enhance the natural sugars in the fruit, while a hint of cayenne adds a subtle spicy kick, balancing the sweetness. Vanilla extract provides a smooth, fragrant undertone, while kosher salt ties everything together, elevating the overall flavor.
Grilled pineapple is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. As the fruit heats up, its sugars caramelize, creating a golden, slightly crisp exterior with juicy, tender flesh. This recipe is easy to prepare, requires minimal equipment, and is versatile enough to serve as a dessert or a side dish. Its simplicity and vibrant flavors make it a favorite for BBQs, potlucks, and summer gatherings. Grilling fruits like pineapple has become increasingly popular, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional desserts, especially in the summer when outdoor grilling is at its peak.
Health Benefits of Pineapple
Pineapple is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that offer several health benefits. Rich in vitamin C, this tropical fruit supports immune function and promotes healthy skin by encouraging collagen production. Pineapple also contains bromelain, an enzyme known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid digestion and help reduce inflammation in the body. Additionally, pineapple is loaded with antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and protect the body against free radicals.
Grilling pineapple enhances its natural flavors without diminishing its nutritional value. The caramelization process during grilling intensifies its sweetness, making it an even more flavorful experience without the need for excessive sugar. By pairing pineapple with a small amount of brown sugar and spices, this recipe stays balanced in terms of flavor while still delivering a nutritious, health-conscious treat. Grilled pineapple can easily be part of a healthy, balanced diet while satisfying a sweet craving.
The Role of Brown Sugar in the Recipe
Brown sugar plays a vital role in this recipe by aiding in the caramelization of the pineapple as it grills. Caramelization is the process in which the sugar molecules break down under heat, creating a rich, slightly crispy layer on the fruit’s surface. This adds complexity to the flavor, with a mix of sweetness and subtle bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy pineapple.
Light brown sugar is preferred in this recipe due to its milder flavor compared to dark brown sugar, which has a more intense molasses content. The lighter version offers the right balance of sweetness without overwhelming the pineapple’s natural flavor. For those looking to modify the recipe, alternatives like honey or coconut sugar can be used, though they may alter the texture and flavor slightly. These substitutes can offer a similar sweetness, though the depth of caramelization may vary.
Enhancing Flavor with Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper adds a surprising twist to this recipe by providing a slight kick that contrasts with the pineapple’s sweetness. The heat from the cayenne isn’t overpowering but adds just enough spice to make the flavor profile more complex and balanced. This subtle touch of heat heightens the sweetness of the fruit and complements the caramelized brown sugar.
If cayenne isn’t available, other spices like cinnamon, paprika, or even chili powder can be used as alternatives, each bringing its unique twist. These alternatives offer different flavor profiles while still maintaining the balance of sweet and spicy.
The Importance of Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract adds a layer of warmth and richness to the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor of the pineapple without overshadowing its natural taste. The floral and sweet notes of vanilla blend seamlessly with the brown sugar and cayenne, creating a cohesive and balanced flavor profile.
It’s important to use real vanilla extract rather than imitation, as the latter can have a more artificial, one-dimensional flavor. Real vanilla extract provides a deeper and more aromatic taste, elevating the dish to a more gourmet level without complicating the preparation process.
Kosher Salt: The Secret Ingredient
A pinch of kosher salt is the unsung hero in this grilled pineapple recipe. While it might seem counterintuitive to add salt to a dessert, salt plays a crucial role in enhancing the sweetness of the pineapple and the caramelized brown sugar. It helps to balance the flavors, ensuring that the dish doesn’t become overwhelmingly sweet.
Kosher salt is preferred due to its larger crystals, which dissolve more slowly and evenly, allowing for a more controlled seasoning. By bringing out the pineapple’s natural flavors, the salt adds depth to the dish without being noticeable on its own.
Preparation: Cutting and Marinating the Pineapple
To prepare the pineapple for grilling, start by peeling and coring the fruit. After removing the skin, cut the pineapple into long spears for even grilling. Properly cutting the fruit ensures that each piece caramelizes evenly and grills to perfection. If cutting a whole pineapple seems daunting, many stores sell pre-cut spears, making the process even easier.
Once cut, place the pineapple spears in a bowl and toss them with the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Marinating the pineapple allows it to absorb the flavors of the brown sugar and spices fully. Let the pineapple sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate it overnight for a more intense flavor. Marinating overnight enhances the overall depth of the dish, giving the sugar and spices time to meld with the fruit’s natural juices.
Grilling Pineapple: Step-by-Step Process
Before grilling, preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to high heat. Preheating ensures that the pineapple sears quickly, which is crucial for developing those beautiful grill marks and caramelized edges. Just before placing the pineapple on the grill, spray the grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking and encourage even cooking.
Place the pineapple spears directly on the grill, turning them every one to two minutes to ensure each side is grilled evenly. The pineapple is done when it has visible grill marks and a golden-brown color on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to a mushy texture. Perfectly grilled pineapple should have a slight crisp on the exterior and be tender, juicy, and caramelized within.
Making the Marinade Syrup
While the pineapple is grilling, reduce the excess marinade into a syrup for added flavor. Pour the leftover marinade liquid into a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for about 90 seconds or until it becomes bubbly and syrupy. This concentrated syrup can be drizzled over the grilled pineapple just before serving, adding an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.
The syrup not only enhances the presentation but also brings all the flavors of the marinade to the forefront. You can also use the leftover syrup creatively by drizzling it over ice cream, pancakes, or other desserts.
Serving Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple
When it comes to serving brown sugar grilled pineapple, presentation is key to elevating the dish. After grilling, arrange the pineapple spears neatly on a serving platter, allowing the golden caramelized edges to shine. For a touch of color and freshness, garnish the platter with fresh mint leaves. Alternatively, you can serve the grilled pineapple alongside scoops of vanilla ice cream, letting the warmth of the fruit slowly melt the cold ice cream, creating a delightful contrast.
Whipped cream is another excellent garnish, offering a light and airy texture that complements the dense sweetness of the grilled pineapple. If you want to add some crunch, toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts can be sprinkled over the top. This dish can be served on its own as a light dessert or as part of a tropical-themed meal.
Variations of the Recipe
This recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit different flavor preferences. For a tropical twist, sprinkle shredded coconut flakes over the pineapple just before serving or add lime zest to the marinade for a zesty kick. A splash of rum in the marinade can give the dish a richer, more complex flavor, perfect for a more adult-friendly version.
For those with dietary preferences, the recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by ensuring the use of plant-based brown sugar. If you want to turn this dessert into a savory side dish, consider reducing the sugar and pairing the grilled pineapple with grilled meats like pork chops or chicken. The smoky sweetness of the pineapple complements savory grilled meats, creating a well-rounded meal perfect for summer BBQs.
Grilling Tips for Beginners
Grilling pineapple is simple, but there are a few common mistakes to avoid. Overcooking the pineapple can result in a mushy texture, so keep an eye on the grill marks and turn the spears frequently to prevent burning. Under-seasoning can also lead to a bland dish, so be sure to toss the pineapple thoroughly in the marinade for full flavor.
When it comes to grilling tools, a grill pan is ideal if you’re cooking indoors, while a traditional outdoor grill works just as well. Use tongs to flip the pineapple spears and vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking. Always preheat your grill to high heat before adding the pineapple, which ensures caramelization without overcooking. With these tips in mind, even beginners can achieve perfectly grilled pineapple every time.
Nutritional Information
Brown sugar grilled pineapple is a relatively light dessert, but it still packs some sweetness and calories due to the added sugar. On average, a serving of grilled pineapple prepared this way contains around 120-150 calories, depending on the portion size. Pineapple itself is low in calories but high in natural sugars, which are further enhanced by the brown sugar in the marinade.
This dessert also provides a healthy dose of vitamin C, thanks to the pineapple, and a small amount of fiber. To make this dessert lighter, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the marinade or substitute it with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia. For a more indulgent version, serve the grilled pineapple with ice cream or whipped cream, which will add extra calories and fat but create a richer, more decadent dish.
FAQs
Can I use canned or frozen pineapple instead of fresh?
Fresh pineapple is ideal for grilling because it holds its shape better and retains a firmer texture. However, canned or frozen pineapple can be used in a pinch. If using canned pineapple, opt for unsweetened versions, and drain the fruit thoroughly before grilling. Frozen pineapple should be thawed completely and patted dry to avoid excess moisture on the grill.
Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light?
Yes, dark brown sugar can be used, but it will result in a more intense molasses flavor, which might overpower the pineapple’s natural sweetness. Light brown sugar provides a more subtle caramel flavor that pairs well with the fruit’s tangy sweetness.
What if I don’t have cayenne pepper?
If cayenne pepper isn’t available or you prefer a milder dish, you can substitute it with a mild chili powder or simply omit the spice altogether. Other options include paprika or cinnamon, which provide a warm, slightly sweet flavor without the heat.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either warm the pineapple in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or quickly reheat it on the grill for a minute on each side to restore its caramelized texture.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pineapple in advance by marinating it overnight. This allows the flavors to fully develop. However, it’s best to grill the pineapple fresh before serving to ensure it has the perfect caramelized texture and warm, juicy flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, this recipe can be made kid-friendly by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper or leaving it out entirely. The sweetness of the brown sugar and pineapple makes it appealing to kids, especially when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple
Description
This simple and delicious brown sugar grilled pineapple recipe transforms fresh pineapple into a caramelized, sweet, and slightly tangy treat. With the addition of brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and vanilla extract, the pineapple develops a rich flavor profile perfect for summer BBQs or as a light dessert. The slight kick from cayenne is balanced with the sweetness of the pineapple and the warmth of vanilla. Best of all, it’s easy to make and versatile enough to serve with a variety of sides or as a standalone dish.
Ingredients
- 1 fresh whole pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 spears
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- Vegetable oil spray for the grill
Instructions
- Marinate the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple spears in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with brown sugar, cayenne pepper, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Toss to coat evenly. - Let it Marinate:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the pineapple sit in the brown sugar mixture for 30 minutes at room temperature. For a more intense flavor, you can refrigerate it overnight. - Preheat the Grill:
Preheat a grill or grill pan over high heat. Spray the surface with vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking. - Grill the Pineapple:
Place the marinated pineapple spears on the hot grill. Grill for 1-2 minutes per side until the sugar caramelizes and grill marks appear. - Make the Syrup:
While the pineapple is grilling, place the remaining marinade liquid into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave for 90 seconds or until the mixture becomes bubbly and syrupy. - Serve:
Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and place it on a serving platter. Drizzle with the warm syrup just before serving.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or sprinkle with toasted coconut for a tropical touch. For a fresh twist, garnish with mint leaves or a squeeze of lime.
- Make it Kid-Friendly: If serving children, consider reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper to keep the dish mild.
- Substitute Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different sweeteners like honey or coconut sugar, or swap the cayenne pepper for cinnamon or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly on the grill or in the microwave before serving again.
