Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

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

Pin

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.