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Get ready to elevate your summer gatherings with this Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple, a irresistible Tropical Grilled Dessert that blends caramelized sweetness with a subtle spicy kick. Fresh pineapple spears are marinated in a brown sugar and cayenne mixture, then grilled to perfection for a quick, flavorful treat. Perfect as a dessert or a side, this Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

I’m obsessed with this Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple because it’s a vibrant Tropical Grilled Dessert that’s both simple and sensational. The caramelized exterior, enhanced by a touch of cayenne, transforms fresh pineapple into a sweet-spicy masterpiece. It’s versatile enough for barbecues, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, and its quick prep makes it a go-to for effortless entertaining. Whether paired with grilled meats or topped with ice cream, this dish brings tropical flair to any occasion.

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

Here’s what you’ll need for Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple (serves 4–6):

1 fresh whole pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 spears
¼ cup light brown sugar
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅛ tsp kosher salt
Vegetable oil spray (for grill)

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Grill pan or outdoor grill
Tongs
Microwave-safe bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Tips

Pineapple: Fresh pineapple yields the best flavor; choose one that’s ripe but firm.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds a mild caramel note; dark brown works for deeper flavor.
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust to taste for a customizable heat level.
Vanilla Extract: Pure extract enhances sweetness; imitation is fine if needed.
Oil Spray: Prevents sticking; use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola.

Directions for Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

Let’s create this delicious Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple!

Prepare the Pineapple

I place the 8 pineapple spears in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with ¼ cup light brown sugar, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and ⅛ tsp kosher salt. I toss gently to coat evenly.

Marinate

I cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the pineapple marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes. For a bolder flavor, I refrigerate it overnight to let the spices infuse deeply.

Preheat the Grill

I preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to high heat and lightly spray with vegetable oil just before adding the pineapple to prevent sticking.

Grill the Pineapple

I grill the Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple spears for 1–2 minutes per side, until they’re caramelized and lightly charred, using tongs to flip them carefully.

Make the Syrup

While grilling, I pour the excess marinade liquid into a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 90 seconds until it’s bubbly and syrupy, then set it aside.

Serve

I arrange the grilled pineapple on a serving platter and drizzle with the warm marinade syrup for a glossy, flavorful finish, ready to enjoy as a Tropical Grilled Dessert.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: ~120 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings)
Macros per Serving: 28g carbs, 1g protein, 0g fat, 2g fiber

Variations for Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

Try these twists on Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple:

Cinnamon Twist: Swap cayenne for ¼ tsp cinnamon for a warm, cozy Tropical Grilled Dessert.
Coconut Crunch: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the grilled spears for texture.
Rum-Infused: Add 1 tbsp dark rum to the marinade for a boozy Tropical Grilled Dessert.
Mango Pairing: Serve with grilled mango slices for a tropical fruit medley.
Lime Zest: Add a sprinkle of lime zest for a zesty, citrusy kick.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with Layla Cooks’ Banana Icebox Cake for a refreshing dessert duo.
Serve alongside grilled chicken or pork for a savory-sweet Tropical Grilled Dessert combo.
Top with vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for a decadent treat.

Storage

I store leftover Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days to maintain freshness. For freezing, I place cooled spears in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag for up to 2–3 months. I thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on a grill pan or toaster oven to restore texture, avoiding the microwave to prevent mushiness. I drizzle with fresh syrup or honey before serving to revive flavor.

Serving Tips

Presentation: Arrange Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple on a platter or skewers for a vibrant, tropical look.
Garnish: Add toasted coconut, fresh mint, or a drizzle of honey for extra flair.
Pairing: Enjoy with iced tea, a mojito, or sparkling water to complement Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple.
Temperature: Serve warm or at room temperature for the best caramelized flavor.
Portion Size: 1–2 spears per person for a satisfying side or dessert.

FAQs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about this Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple recipe:

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple as a substitute. However, be sure to drain the pineapple well and pat it dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent proper caramelization on the grill.

How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
To customize the spice level, adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your taste. For a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper to ⅛ teaspoon or omit it entirely. If you prefer more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne or even add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Can I prepare the pineapple in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pineapple spears ahead of time. Marinate the pineapple as directed, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to infuse deeply. If storing longer, keep the marinated pineapple covered and refrigerated until ready to grill.

What can I do with leftover grilled pineapple?
Leftover grilled pineapple can be enjoyed in several ways. Try adding it to salads, using it as a topping for yogurt or ice cream, or incorporating it into fruit salsas. It can also be used in smoothies or as a flavorful addition to desserts like cakes or tarts. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Can I grill this indoors if I don’t have an outdoor grill?
Yes, a grill pan on the stovetop works perfectly for indoor grilling. Preheat it over high heat and follow the same grilling instructions for caramelized results.

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Conclusion

This Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple recipe is a must-try for any grill enthusiast or pineapple lover. Its quick preparation and mouthwatering flavors make it a perfect addition to any summer gathering or casual weeknight dinner. Enjoy the caramelized sweetness with a hint of spice, and savor the delightful taste of grilled pineapple.