Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple is a delightful treat that brings a sweet and tropical touch to any summer gathering. This easy recipe transforms fresh pineapple spears into a deliciously caramelized dish, perfect for BBQs, picnics, or even as an exotic dessert. The combination of buttery brown sugar and cinnamon creates an irresistible glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the pineapple, making it a standout side or dessert for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

This dish is not only tasty but also incredibly versatile.

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delicious grilled fruit in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue, family gathering, or just a simple weeknight dinner, this dish fits right in.
• Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of brown sugar and cinnamon enhances the pineapple’s sweetness, creating an unforgettable flavor profile.
• Healthy Option: Grilled pineapple is naturally low in calories and packed with vitamins, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
• Impressive Presentation: The caramelization adds a beautiful golden hue, making it visually appealing on your table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple, you’ll need some essential tools that will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and caramelization for that perfect finish.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all the glaze ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Whisk: Makes it easy to mix the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a uniform glaze.
• Basting brush: Essential for applying the glaze evenly over your pineapple spears.

Ingredients

For the Pineapple

• 1 pineapple cut into spears
• 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/2 cup Butter melted
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple

Start by laying the pineapple spears on a pan. Sprinkle them lightly with cinnamon to give them an extra flavor boost.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
2. Add in the cinnamon and mix well.
3. If the mixture seems thick, microwave it for a few seconds to make it pourable.

Step 3: Apply the Glaze

Using a basting brush:
1. Generously spread the glaze over each pineapple spear ensuring they are well coated.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple

Preheat your grill to medium heat:
1. Place the glazed pineapple spears on the grill.
2. Grill for about 7-10 minutes or until they start turning golden brown.
3. Brush any excess sauce from the pan back onto the pineapple before serving for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple as a side or dessert!

How to Serve Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple is a delicious treat that can elevate any meal. Its sweet and smoky flavor pairs beautifully with various dishes, making it a versatile addition to your table.

As a Dessert

• Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce to enhance the sweetness and add richness.

Accompanying Savory Dishes

• Pair it with grilled chicken for a tropical twist that complements savory flavors.
• Use it as a topping on burgers for an unexpected burst of sweetness.

In Fruit Salads

• Chop the grilled pineapple and mix it into a fresh fruit salad for added depth.
• Combine with mint leaves for a refreshing summer side dish.

As a Snack

• Enjoy grilled pineapple spears on their own, drizzled with honey for extra sweetness.
• Serve as part of a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and cured meats.

How to Perfect Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

Perfecting your Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple is easy with these simple tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance the flavor and texture of this delightful dish.

• Choose ripe pineapples: Look for pineapples that are sweet-smelling and slightly soft to the touch. This ensures great flavor.
• Use fresh cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon will provide more robust flavor than pre-packaged options.
• Melt butter thoroughly: Ensure your butter is fully melted for an even glaze that sticks well to the pineapple.
• Preheat the grill: A hot grill helps caramelize the sugar quickly, resulting in better texture and flavor.
• Avoid overcooking: Monitor the grilling process closely; you want golden brown, not mushy pineapple.
• Add a squeeze of lime: A splash of lime juice before serving brightens flavors and adds freshness.

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Best Side Dishes for Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall experience. Here are some perfect options to complement this sweet treat.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad provides protein and complements the tropical flavors beautifully.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Mixed grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add savory contrasts to sweet pineapple.
4. Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf offers a nutty base that pairs well with caramelized fruits.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summer vibes and works great alongside grilled pineapple.
6. Baked Beans: The hearty, savory nature of baked beans pairs nicely with fruity sides like grilled pineapple.
7. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds a savory element that balances out sweeter dishes perfectly.
8. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers comfort and rounds out your barbecue spread effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping Fresh Pineapple: Always use fresh pineapple for the best flavor. Canned or pre-packaged options may not caramelize well.
• Overcooking the Pineapple: Keep an eye on the grill! Overcooked pineapple can become mushy instead of beautifully caramelized.
• Not Using Enough Glaze: Make sure to coat the pineapple spears generously with the brown sugar glaze. This ensures a nice caramelization and enhances the sweetness.
• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking at too high or too low temperatures can ruin your dish. Medium heat is ideal for even cooking and perfect caramelization.
• Forgetting to Brush with Extra Sauce: Don’t forget to brush the excess sauce onto the grilled pineapple before serving for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The grilled pineapple will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual pineapple spears tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pineapple on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place pineapple in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 30 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add the pineapple, and warm for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple.

How do I choose the right pineapple?

Look for pineapples that are firm with a sweet aroma at the base. The leaves should be green and fresh-looking.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes! Try this method with peaches, bananas, or mangoes for delicious variations on grilled fruit.

How can I customize my glaze?

Feel free to add vanilla extract or even rum for a unique twist on the classic brown sugar glaze.

What dishes pair well with Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple?

This dish is perfect alongside grilled meats, as a dessert topping, or even as part of a tropical fruit salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just coat and grill the pineapple when you’re ready.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple is an irresistible treat that elevates any summer meal. It’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish or dessert. Plus, you can easily customize it with different spices and fruits. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your family and friends!