Experience the sweet and tangy flavor of this juicy, grilled pineapple made with brown sugar, butter and a hint of cinnamon. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for your backyard barbecue or a fancy dinner party.
All the ingredients in this recipe like pineapple, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon are commonly found in most homes. However, if you need to procure them, make sure to choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor and organic brown sugar if possible, as it adds a deeper, richer taste to this recipe.
Ingredients for Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
Pineapple: The star of this recipe, which provides a tangy flavor and juiciness.
Brown sugar: Adds a rich, sweet flavor to the pineapple.
Butter: Helps to create that beautiful caramelization on the pineapple.
Cinnamon: Gives a warm, spicy touch to the sweet and tangy pineapple.
One reader, Kerwin Curran says:
This caramelized brown sugar cinnamon grilled pineapple recipe is a game-changer! The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a delightful caramelized crust on the pineapple, making it a sweet and juicy treat. It's a perfect blend of flavors that will elevate any BBQ or summer gathering. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
How to caramelize brown sugar: In a saucepan, heat the brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns into a smooth liquid.
How to grill pineapple: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the pineapple spears on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is heated through.
How to make cinnamon butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter with cinnamon until well combined.
How to brush on the cinnamon butter: Using a pastry brush, evenly spread the cinnamon butter mixture over the pineapple spears before grilling.
How to know when the pineapple is caramelized: The pineapple will be caramelized when it turns golden brown and has a slightly sticky texture.
How To Make Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
With its sweet brown sugar and cinnamon glaze, this grilled pineapple recipe yields a perfectly caramelized side dish that is great for summer barbecues.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1pineapple,cut into spears
- ½cupbrown sugar
- ½cupbutter,melted
- 1tspcinnamon
Instructions
-
Lay the pineapple spears on a pan. Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon.
-
Whisk together the butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread on top of the pineapple using a cooking brush.
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Grill for about 7 to 10 minutes or until it is starting to turn golden brown.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 258.04kcal
- Fat: 15.53g
- Saturated Fat: 9.73g
- Trans Fat: 0.62g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.00g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.64g
- Carbohydrates: 32.00g
- Fiber: 2.34g
- Sugar: 26.60g
- Protein: 1.01g
- Cholesterol: 40.67mg
- Sodium: 7.02mg
- Calcium: 38.52mg
- Potassium: 186.89mg
- Iron: 0.56mg
- Vitamin A: 133.98µg
- Vitamin C: 72.11mg
Technique Tip for Perfectly Caramelized Grilled Pineapple
When grilling the pineapple, ensure to keep a close eye on it as the brown sugar can burn easily due to its high sugar content. Turning the pineapple spears occasionally will help achieve an even caramelization and prevent them from burning. Also, using a pastry brush to apply the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon mixture will ensure that every bit of the pineapple is coated evenly, enhancing the overall flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Grilled Pineapple Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop the pineapple and mix the brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon in advance to save time when you're ready to grill.
Use a grilling basket: Grilling the pineapple in a basket will prevent pieces from falling through the grates and make flipping easier.
High heat: Preheat the grill to high heat to caramelize the pineapple quickly and efficiently.
Thin slices: Cut the pineapple into thin slices to reduce grilling time and ensure even caramelization.
Keep an eye: Watch the pineapple closely while grilling to prevent burning and ensure the perfect caramelization.
Substitute Ingredients For Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple Recipe
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor and can caramelize just like brown sugar when grilled.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a rich, buttery flavor and works well for grilling fruits like pineapple.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg has a warm, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the grilled pineapple just like cinnamon.
Best Way to Present Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
Elevate the pineapple: Cut the pineapple into elegant spears or rounds, and arrange them on a beautiful platter or individual serving plates.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some finely chopped mint or basil over the grilled pineapple for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Drizzle with a caramel sauce: Create a stunning drizzle of caramel sauce over the grilled pineapple for an added touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream: Present the grilled pineapple alongside a scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream for a luxurious and indulgent dessert experience.
Add a sprinkle of edible flowers: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by delicately placing a few edible flowers around the grilled pineapple for a touch of elegance.
Serve on a bed of toasted coconut: Present the caramelized pineapple on a bed of lightly toasted coconut flakes for a delightful tropical twist.
Accompany with a side of whipped cream: Offer a side of freshly whipped cream for a classic and luxurious pairing with the caramelized brown sugar cinnamon grilled pineapple.
Sprinkle with edible gold dust: For an extravagant touch, lightly dust the grilled pineapple with edible gold dust to create a visually stunning and luxurious presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Brown Sugar and Cinnamon
Grill: A grill is essential for cooking the pineapple to achieve those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavors.
Cooking brush: A cooking brush is used to spread the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon mixture onto the pineapple, ensuring it's evenly coated for caramelization.
Pan: A pan is used to lay out the pineapple spears and grill them to perfection.
How To Store and Freeze Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
Let the grilled pineapple cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the pineapple from becoming soggy and will help maintain its texture.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled caramelized pineapple in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the grilled pineapple:
- Arrange the pineapple spears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the pineapple is frozen solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the pineapple spears to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen grilled pineapple will keep well for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen caramelized pineapple, simply transfer the desired amount to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. You can also thaw it at room temperature for a quicker option, but be sure to use it promptly.
Reheat thawed or refrigerated grilled pineapple in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also enjoy it chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Pineapple
To reheat leftover caramelized brown sugar cinnamon grilled pineapple, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pineapple spears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with any remaining brown sugar butter mixture and sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until heated through and the edges start to caramelize again. This method helps to restore the texture and flavor of the grilled pineapple.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the grilled pineapple in the microwave. Place the spears on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Keep in mind that microwaving may cause the pineapple to soften slightly and the caramelized surface may not be as crisp as when freshly grilled or reheated in the oven.
If you have access to a grill or grill pan, you can reheat the pineapple spears directly on the hot surface. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the pineapple spears on the grill and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, just until they are heated through and the caramelized sugar starts to sizzle. This method will help to maintain the grilled flavor and texture of the pineapple.
For a unique twist, try chopping up the leftover caramelized pineapple and using it as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal. The warm, sweet, and slightly spicy pineapple will add a burst of flavor to your favorite desserts or breakfast bowls. No reheating is necessary for this option, as the contrast of the warm pineapple against the cool or room-temperature base can be quite delightful.
Random Fact About Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple
Pineapple is a tropical fruit that contains an enzyme called bromelain, which can help with digestion and reduce inflammation.
Is Making Grilled Pineapple with Caramelized Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Economical for Home Cooking?
This caramelized brown sugar cinnamon grilled pineapple recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Pineapples are generally affordable, and the additional ingredients like brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon are commonly found in most kitchens. The recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a hit with both kids and adults. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $8-$10, depending on the price of the pineapple. Overall Verdict: 9/10. The dish is simple, delicious, and budget-friendly, making it a great choice for a family dessert or snack.
Is This Grilled Pineapple Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The caramelized brown sugar cinnamon grilled pineapple recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of brown sugar (½ cup) and butter (½ cup), which are both high in calories and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.
- Brown sugar is a type of added sugar, and consuming too much added sugar has been linked to various health problems, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
- Butter is high in saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in large amounts.
However, it's important to note that pineapple itself is a nutritious fruit, rich in vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants. Grilling the pineapple can enhance its natural sweetness and flavor.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar and butter used in the recipe. You can still achieve a delicious caramelized flavor with less of these ingredients.
- Replace some or all of the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, which contain some beneficial nutrients in addition to their sweetness.
- Use a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil, which is lower in saturated fat compared to butter.
- Serve the grilled pineapple with a dollop of low-fat, unsweetened yogurt for a protein and calcium boost.
- Pair the grilled pineapple with other nutrient-dense foods, like a mix of fresh berries, to create a well-rounded and healthy dessert or snack.
Editor's Thoughts on This Caramelized Pineapple Recipe
This recipe for caramelized brown sugar cinnamon grilled pineapple is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. The brown sugar and cinnamon create a rich, caramelized coating on the pineapple, adding depth to its natural sweetness. Grilling the pineapple enhances its juiciness and imparts a smoky flavor, elevating the overall taste experience. It's a simple yet impressive dessert or snack that's perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy night in. The balance of flavors and textures makes this dish a standout, and it's sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
Why trust this Caramelized Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a burst of flavor with caramelized brown sugar and cinnamon enhancing the natural sweetness of pineapple. The combination of butter and brown sugar creates a luscious caramelized glaze, while the cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic touch. Grilling the pineapple caramelizes the sugars, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Trust the irresistible aroma and the tantalizing flavors of this grilled pineapple recipe to elevate your dining experience.
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