Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple is a delightful treat that will elevate any summer barbecue. This dish combines fresh pineapple with a rich glaze, creating a sweet and smoky flavor that’s perfect as a side or dessert. Its simplicity and taste make it ideal for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip this dish up before your guests arrive.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and grilled pineapple creates a mouthwatering treat that pleases everyone.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, or serve it with ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Healthy Alternative: Grilled pineapple is a nutritious choice that adds sweetness without the need for artificial ingredients.
- Perfect for Summer: This recipe shines during outdoor grilling season, bringing seasonal flavors to your table.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help you achieve the best results while making the process enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Cooking brush
- Mixing bowl
- Pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Essential for achieving that delicious caramelization on the pineapple.
- Cooking brush: Perfect for evenly spreading the buttery brown sugar glaze over the pineapple spears.
Ingredients
For the Pineapple
- 1 pineapple (cut into spears)
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 1/2 cup Butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple
Lay the pineapple spears on a pan. Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
Whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. If it seems thick, place it in the microwave for a few seconds so that it can easily pour on top of the pineapple.
Step 3: Apply the Glaze
Spread the glaze over the pineapple using a cooking brush to ensure every spear is well coated.
Step 4: Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the glazed pineapple spears on the grill and cook for about 7-10 minutes or until they start turning golden brown. Brush any excess sauce from the pan back onto the pineapple before serving.
Enjoy your Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple as a sweet side dish or dessert!
How to Serve Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want it as a side dish or a dessert, this grilled pineapple is sure to impress your guests.
As a Side Dish
- BBQ Ribs – The sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory flavors of grilled ribs perfectly.
- Grilled Chicken – Pairing this caramelized pineapple with grilled chicken adds a tropical twist to your meal.
- Fish Tacos – Use the grilled pineapple as a topping for fish tacos for an extra layer of flavor.
As a Dessert
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Serve warm grilled pineapple over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- Pancakes or Waffles – Top your breakfast pancakes or waffles with this sweet grilled treat for added flavor and texture.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer the caramelized pineapple with yogurt and granola for a refreshing parfait.
How to Perfect Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
To achieve the best results with your Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple, follow these simple tips.
- Boldly coat the pineapple – Make sure each spear is generously coated in the brown sugar cinnamon glaze for maximum flavor.
- Use fresh pineapples – Fresh pineapples have more natural sweetness and juiciness than canned ones, enhancing your dish’s taste.
- Preheat the grill – Ensure your grill is properly heated before placing the pineapple to get those perfect grill marks and caramelization.
- Watch closely while grilling – Keep an eye on the pineapples as they grill; they can burn quickly due to the sugar content.
- Experiment with spices – Try adding nutmeg or cardamom to the glaze for an extra flavor kick!
- Serve immediately – For the best experience, serve the grilled pineapple right off the grill while it’s still warm.
Best Side Dishes for Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple pairs well with several side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
- Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet and smoky flavors of the pineapple.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brings out sweet notes that work well alongside caramelized pineapple.
- Rice Pilaf – A light rice pilaf provides a neutral base that balances out the sweetness of the dish.
- Quinoa Salad – A zesty quinoa salad offers a healthy and flavorful pairing with grilled pineapple.
- Baked Beans – The rich flavors of baked beans complement sweet dishes beautifully, making them a perfect match.
- Cucumber Salad – A cool cucumber salad introduces freshness that contrasts nicely with warm grilled fruit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling pineapple may seem simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the glaze: Not coating the pineapple with the brown sugar cinnamon mixture can lead to bland flavor. Always ensure each spear is generously coated for the best taste.
- Using unripe pineapple: An unripe pineapple can be overly tart and hard. Choose a ripe pineapple for sweetness and tenderness that enhances the grilled flavor.
- Not preheating the grill: Skipping this step can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium heat to achieve that perfect caramelized finish.
- Overcooking the pineapple: Cooking too long will make the pineapple mushy. Grill just until golden brown, about 7-10 minutes, for optimal texture.
- Ignoring presentation: Serving without garnishing can make it look less appealing. Consider adding fresh mint or a drizzle of honey for a stunning finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the caramelized brown sugar cinnamon grilled pineapple to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a container for better preservation.
Reheating Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make it soggy.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently, until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple?
Caramelized brown sugar cinnamon grilled pineapple is a delicious side dish made by grilling fresh pineapple spears coated with a sweet glaze of brown sugar and cinnamon until perfectly caramelized.
How do I choose the best pineapple?
Look for pineapples that are golden yellow and yield slightly when pressed. A sweet smell at the base also indicates ripeness.
Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?
Yes! This method works well with peaches, mangoes, or even bananas. Adjust grilling time based on fruit firmness.
How do I enhance the flavor of Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple?
Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a squeeze of lime juice to your glaze for added depth and brightness.
Final Thoughts
Caramelized brown sugar cinnamon grilled pineapple is not only delightful but also versatile. Whether as a side dish at summer barbecues or as a tasty dessert topping, this recipe invites creativity. Feel free to customize it with different spices or serve alongside ice cream! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
Indulge in the sweet and smoky delight of Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple, a perfect addition to your summer gatherings. This easy-to-make treat features fresh pineapple coated in a luscious glaze of brown sugar and cinnamon, transforming it into a mouthwatering dish that can be enjoyed as a side or dessert. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll impress your guests with this tropical delight. Whether paired with grilled meats or served atop vanilla ice cream, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
Ingredients
- 1 pineapple (cut into spears)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple: Cut the pineapple into spears and arrange them on a pan. Lightly sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Make the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. If necessary, microwave briefly to thin.
- Apply the Glaze: Brush the glaze generously over each pineapple spear.
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium heat. Grill pineapples for 7-10 minutes until caramelized and golden brown, brushing with extra glaze before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 spear (80g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Ensure fresh pineapples for optimal sweetness and juiciness. Experiment by adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavors. Serve immediately for the best taste.
