Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple transforms a simple pineapple into a caramelized treat with a kick of spice and a hint of vanilla that always brings me back to warm summer evenings spent grilling outdoors with friends. It is an easy recipe that makes dessert feel effortless and festive, perfect for cookouts and family gatherings.

My family begs for this grilled pineapple as soon as grilling season starts. I first made it as a quick summer dessert for barbecue night and now it is a staple that never fails to impress both kids and adults.

Ingredients

• Fresh pineapple: It brings natural sweetness and tang. Select one that smells sweet at the stem end and gives slightly when pressed
• Light brown sugar: Adds a rich molasses flavor and promotes caramelization. Use fresh soft sugar for the best glaze
• Cayenne pepper: Gives a gentle heat that enhances the sweetness. Go easy if you want a milder taste
• Vanilla extract: Lends a warm floral aroma. Pure vanilla will make a big difference
• Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and sharpens all the flavors. Use flaky salt for bright pops of flavor
• Vegetable oil spray: Keeps the pineapple from sticking to the grill. Choose a high smoke point spray like canola or avocado oil

Instructions

Prep the Pineapple:

Cut the crown and base from the pineapple. Stand it upright slice off the skin following the curves then quarter lengthwise and remove the core from each quarter. Slice each piece again to get eight evenly sized spears.

Make the Marinade:

In a large mixing bowl combine brown sugar cayenne vanilla and kosher salt. Toss the pineapple spears in this mixture so every surface is well coated.

Marinate the Fruit:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set aside for thirty minutes at room temperature. You can refrigerate for a few hours or overnight for extra flavor. Reserve any excess marinade at the bottom of the bowl.

Prepare the Grill:

Preheat your grill or grill pan to high. Spray lightly with vegetable oil just before cooking to prevent sticking.

Grill the Pineapple:

Place the marinated pineapple spears on the hot grill. Cook each side for one to two minutes until charred grill marks appear and the sugars caramelize without burning.

Make the Syrup:

While the pineapple grills microwave the reserved marinade for about ninety seconds until it becomes thick and syrupy.

Serve:

Arrange the grilled pineapple on a platter and drizzle generously with the warm syrup. Serve immediately while still hot for the best texture and aroma.

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My favorite part is watching the sugar bubble and caramelize on the grill. Every time my youngest helps drizzle the syrup at the end it turns dessert into a little kitchen celebration that everyone remembers.

Storage Tips

Leftover grilled pineapple keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the grill or in the microwave to bring back its juicy tenderness. The syrup may thicken further when chilled so let it warm to room temperature before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find fresh pineapple use canned spears packed in juice but be sure to drain them thoroughly. For a smokier note swap the vanilla for a teaspoon of rum or bourbon extract. Those avoiding heat can reduce or omit the cayenne and add a pinch of cinnamon instead.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the grilled pineapple on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic finish. It also pairs beautifully as a side with grilled meats or layered into tacos with pork or chicken. I love tucking leftovers into yogurt parfaits for breakfast.

Cultural and Seasonal Context

Pineapple has long been a symbol of hospitality in tropical regions and grilling it is a tradition found across South America and the Caribbean. This sweet tangy fruit beautifully captures the spirit of summer gatherings where simple recipes shine brightest.

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This is the dessert that shines at every cookout. Try it once and you may never grill pineapple any other way.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Fresh pineapple gives the best texture when grilled, but canned (well-drained) works in a pinch. The flavor will be softer and less vibrant.

→ How long should I marinate the pineapple?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor absorption.

→ Is the cayenne pepper necessary?

Cayenne adds subtle heat and balances sweetness, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder taste.

→ What type of grill is best for this dish?

Both outdoor grills and grill pans work well. Ensure high heat and a light oil coating for clear grill marks without sticking.

→ Can I make this in advance?

The pineapple is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but you can marinate ahead and briefly reheat before serving.