Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar is a simple yet delightful dessert that highlights the sweet, juicy flavor of ripe pineapple. This dish brings together the lusciousness of the fruit with a warm, cinnamon sugar touch, enhancing its natural sugars through the grilling process. The caramelization that occurs on the grill gives each bite a satisfying crunch, making it a perfect treat for warm summer evenings or as a unique side dish for barbecues.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 3mg
Why Make This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar is not just a delicious dessert; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a standalone treat, dress it up with vanilla ice cream for a comforting sundae, or use it to enhance savory dishes like grilled pork or chicken. The sweet and spicy flavor combination is appealing to all ages, making it a lovely addition to family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and packed with vitamins, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
How to Make Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Begin by preheating the grill to medium heat. This ensures an even cooking temperature for the pineapple, allowing for that perfect caramelization.
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Step 2: Cutting the Pineapple
Peel and slice the pineapple into rings or wedges, depending on your preference. Make sure the slices are about half an inch thick, which helps them hold their shape during grilling.
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Step 3: Mixing
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together. This delightful mixture will add sweetness and warmth to your grilled pineapple, creating an irresistible aroma as it cooks.
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Step 4: Brushing and Sprinkling
Brush the pineapple pieces with melted butter. This not only prevents sticking but also enhances the flavor as they grill. Next, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the pineapple.
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Step 5: Grilling
Place the pineapple on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the outside is caramelized and grill marks appear. The grilling process enhances the flavors and gives the pineapple a beautiful golden-brown color.
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Step 6: Serving
Serve warm as a delicious dessert or a side dish. Enjoy the sweet and spiced flavors while they are fresh off the grill!
How to Serve Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar is delightful served warm. You can top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a dollop of yogurt for a refreshing touch. It makes a wonderful addition to a tropical fruit salad or can be paired with grilled meats, adding a sweet contrast to savory dishes.
How to Store Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back on the grill for a minute or two or use a microwave for a quick warm-up.
Expert Tips for Perfect Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
- Choose a ripe pineapple: The best pineapples for grilling are those that are sweet and fragrant. Look for pineapples with a firm texture and a slight give when pressed.
- Adjust the sugar: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar or try replacing it with honey for a different twist.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice in with the cinnamon for an extra flavor dimension.
Delicious Variations
- Add Coconut: After grilling, sprinkle with toasted coconut for an added crunch and tropical flair.
- Make it Spicy: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cinnamon sugar for a zesty kick.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a light balsamic glaze over the pineapple before serving for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use canned pineapple?
While fresh pineapple works best for grilling, you can use canned pineapple rings. Be sure to drain them well and pat them dry before grilling. -
What’s the best type of grill to use?
Any type of grill will work, whether it’s gas, charcoal, or a grill pan on the stovetop. Just ensure it’s hot enough before adding the pineapple. -
How do I know when the pineapple is done?
The pineapple is done when it has nice grill marks and is tender to the touch, typically after 3-4 minutes per side. -
Can I make this in advance?
You can prep the pineapple and mix the cinnamon sugar ahead of time, but it’s best to grill them just before serving for the freshest taste. -
What can I pair with grilled pineapple?
Grilled pineapple pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats like chicken, pork, or shrimp. It also complements sweet dishes, such as pancakes or cheesecakes.
Conclusion
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar is a must-try for anyone looking to add a fruity twist to their dessert palate. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it allows the natural sweetness of the pineapple to shine through. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite toppings, this delightful treat is sure to impress. So fire up that grill, get your pineapple ready, and enjoy a taste of summer in every bite!
Print
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
A quick and delightful dessert featuring grilled pineapple enhanced with cinnamon sugar, perfect for summer evenings.
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Begin by preheating the grill to medium heat.
- Peel and slice the pineapple into rings or wedges, about half an inch thick.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together.
- Brush the pineapple pieces with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over them.
- Place the pineapple on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until caramelized.
- Serve warm as a delicious dessert or side dish.
Notes
Try serving with vanilla ice cream or use as a topping for grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 3mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
