Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

Category: Sweet Treats for Every Occasion

Brown sugar and a hint of cayenne turn fresh pineapple spears into a sweet, lightly spicy delight right off the grill. The natural sugars caramelize to form a golden, crisp exterior, while vanilla adds a warm depth of flavor. This vibrant treat works as a side for grilled meats or a refreshing dessert, especially when served with fresh mint or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For best results, use ripe but firm pineapple, coat evenly with the spice blend, and grill just until caramelized. Enjoy warm for the ultimate tasting experience!

Updated on Tue, 27 May 2025 20:40:41 GMT
A Sweet and Spicy Summer Treat Pin
A Sweet and Spicy Summer Treat | lottirecipes.com

This sweet and spicy Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple turns fresh pineapple spears into a caramelized masterpiece that shines at any barbecue or summer gathering. Every spear develops a golden crisp crust from the brown sugar and vanilla, balanced by a touch of heat from cayenne. It is simple enough for a weeknight, yet special enough to serve at parties. You will want to make this all season long.

The first time my family tried this, we could not stop snacking until the plate was empty. Even my dad who usually skips dessert went back for seconds and thirds.

Ingredients

  • Fresh pineapple: Choose one that smells sweet at the base and gives slightly when pressed
  • Light brown sugar: Adds caramel flavor and crisp texture Use fresh for best results
  • Cayenne pepper: Gives just enough heat and balances sweetness Use a fresh jar for best flavor
  • Vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness with deep aroma Select pure vanilla for the richest taste
  • Kosher salt: Sharpens all the other flavors and keeps the balance
  • Vegetable oil spray: Keeps pineapple from sticking to the grill Use one with no added flavors
  • Fresh mint leaves: Optional for garnish and a pop of cool color Look for perky bright-green leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high setting Allow it to heat for at least ten minutes so the surface is evenly hot Lightly spray the grill grates with vegetable oil to make sure nothing sticks
Mix the Seasonings:
In a small mixing bowl combine the light brown sugar cayenne pepper vanilla extract and kosher salt Stir very well until you see no streaks of sugar or spice and everything is completely uniform
Coat the Pineapple:
Cut the peeled cored pineapple into eight even spears Arrange them in a single layer in a shallow dish Sprinkle your seasoning mix over the spears and use your hands to turn and press the mixture onto every surface Make sure all sides are fully covered
Grill the Pineapple:
Using tongs place each coated spear onto the hot grill and space them apart Grill for two to three minutes per side turning carefully only when grill marks develop and the sugar is bubbling and golden Watch closely as the sugar can go from caramelized to burnt in seconds
Serve and Enjoy:
Once finished use tongs to move the spears to a serving platter If you like arrange fresh mint on top for a bright color and extra aroma Serve right away while still warm for the best flavor and texture
A Sweet and Spicy Summer Treat Pin
A Sweet and Spicy Summer Treat | lottirecipes.com

Brown sugar is my favorite ingredient here and I always use the softest freshest bag I can find The deep flavor is what makes the caramelized crust so irresistible My brother once requested this dish instead of a birthday cake which became a funny tradition in our house

Storage Tips

Store any leftover pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days The flavor actually gets a bit richer as it sits To reheat pop the spears back on your grill for just one minute or warm in a nonstick skillet over medium heat

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cayenne use a pinch of chili powder for warmth or smoked paprika for extra depth Out of brown sugar Mix granulated sugar with a splash of molasses in a pinch Honey also works for a floral sweet note If avoiding vanilla try a bit of almond extract or fresh citrus zest

Serving Suggestions

This pineapples makes a great side for grilled chicken pork chops or fish tacos Try it as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce Leftovers are super good chopped into yogurt granola bowls or spooned over pancakes

A Touch of Culinary Adventure

Grilled fruit is common in tropical regions where fire cooking is a tradition The crisp sweet smoky pineapple is both classic and modern in American cookouts I love bringing this to family picnics where everyone gathers around exchanging stories as the smell of vanilla and caramel fills the air

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use canned pineapple for grilling?

Thick slices of canned pineapple can be used, but pat them dry first for better caramelization.

→ How can I keep pineapple from sticking to the grill?

Spray or brush your grill grates and pineapple with oil to prevent sticking and achieve clean grill marks.

→ Is this dish suitable for kids?

Yes, simply reduce or omit the cayenne for a milder, family-friendly treat everyone can enjoy.

→ What other spices can I add for variety?

Try smoked paprika, chili powder, or add a squeeze of fresh lime for new flavor twists.

→ What can I serve alongside grilled pineapple?

This dish pairs well with grilled meats, coconut rice, or as a topping for vanilla ice cream and pound cake.

→ Can I make this without an outdoor grill?

Use a grill pan on the stove or broil under the oven for a similar caramelized finish.

Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

Golden pineapple with caramelized brown sugar and a kick of spice, perfect for summer gatherings or sweet snacking.

Preparation Time
10 mins
Cook Time
8 mins
Total Time
18 mins

Category: Desserts

Difficulty Level: Easy

Cuisine Type: Tropical American

Yield: 6 Servings (8 pineapple spears)

Dietary Preferences: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

What You'll Need

→ Main

01 1 whole fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 spears

→ Seasoning Blend

02 120 grams light brown sugar
03 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
04 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Additional

06 Vegetable oil spray, for greasing the grill
07 Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly coat the grates with vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking.

Step 02

In a small mixing bowl, blend the light brown sugar, cayenne pepper, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until thoroughly combined.

Step 03

Arrange pineapple spears in a shallow dish. Evenly sprinkle the seasoning blend over all sides, turning spears to ensure full coverage.

Step 04

Place coated pineapple spears directly onto the preheated grill. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side, rotating to achieve prominent grill marks and deep golden caramelization. Monitor closely to prevent burning.

Step 05

Transfer grilled pineapple to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture.

Additional Notes

  1. Select pineapple that is ripe yet firm for best grilling results; it should be fragrant at the base and yield slightly to gentle pressure.
  2. Coat each spear evenly with the seasoning mixture to ensure consistent caramelization on the grill.
  3. Maintain medium-high heat; excessive heat may burn the sugar before pineapple is perfectly caramelized.
  4. Grill marks signal proper caramelization—watch closely as sugar browns quickly.
  5. Fresh mint garnish provides a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet and spicy flavors.
  6. For advanced variations, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika, a squeeze of lime, or brush spears with rum before grilling.
  7. Ideal as a dessert, side, or vibrant topping for proteins, salads, or ice cream.
  8. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat briefly on grill or in a skillet before serving.

Tools You'll Need

  • Outdoor grill (gas or charcoal recommended)
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Shallow dish or tray

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and don’t replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 85
  • Fats: ~
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Proteins: ~