Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

Grilled pineapple with cinnamon sugar is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of tropical flavor to your table. This fat-free treat is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner. The combination of sweet, caramelized pineapple and the warm spice of cinnamon makes this dish truly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dessert ready in no time.
• Healthy Indulgence: This recipe is fat-free, making it a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet cravings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Grilled pineapple works well as a stand-alone dessert or as an accompaniment to ice cream or yogurt.
• Unique Flavor Combination: The mix of grilled fruit and cinnamon sugar creates a warm, inviting taste that will impress your guests.
• Quick Cooking Time: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this flavorful dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make the grilling process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for preparing grilled pineapple with cinnamon sugar.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or indoor grilling pan
• Cooking spray
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or indoor grilling pan: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor on your pineapple.
• Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and ensures an even cook on your pineapple spears.
• Knife: A sharp knife allows for easy slicing and trimming of the pineapple.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the brown sugar and cinnamon before applying it to the fruit.

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Ingredients

For this delightful grilled pineapple with cinnamon sugar recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pineapple

• 1 fresh pineapple

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Get the grill ready. Coat the grill with cooking spray and pre-heat to medium or medium-high heat (about 350°F to 450°F). Alternatively, you can use an indoor grilling pan. If using a pellet grill, we recommend Apple or Cherry pellets or a blend.

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple

Slice off the top and bottom of the pineapple. Trim away the outer skin, cut out any brown “eyes,” and slice it into spears. You do not need to remove the center core if you prefer; it will soften and sweeten while grilling.

Step 3: Mix Cinnamon Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the prepared pineapple spears.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple

Place the coated pineapple spears on the grill. Grill for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and caramelized.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this scrumptious dessert!

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

Grilled pineapple with cinnamon sugar is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its sweet and smoky flavor profile makes it a versatile addition to many meals.

As a Standalone Dessert

• A simple yet satisfying way to enjoy grilled pineapple is on its own, allowing the natural sweetness and caramelization to shine.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm grilled pineapple alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast between hot and cold.

Over Yogurt

• Top a bowl of creamy yogurt with grilled pineapple spears for a refreshing snack or healthy breakfast option.

In Fruit Salad

• Chop the grilled pineapple into smaller pieces and mix it into a fruit salad for an exciting twist on traditional flavors.

With Coconut Whipped Cream

• Pair grilled pineapple with coconut whipped cream for a tropical-inspired dessert that adds extra richness.

As a Topping for Pancakes or Waffles

• Use grilled pineapple as a topping on pancakes or waffles to elevate your brunch experience with a burst of flavor.

How to Perfect Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

To ensure your grilled pineapple turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Choose ripe pineapples: Select pineapples that are slightly soft when pressed and have a sweet aroma at the base for the best flavor.
• Preheat your grill properly: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat, as this helps achieve that perfect caramelization.
• Cut evenly sized spears: Ensure all pineapple pieces are cut uniformly for even cooking and caramelization.
• Don’t skip the sugar mixture: Generously coat each spear with the cinnamon sugar mixture to enhance the sweetness and create that crunchy texture.
• Watch the grilling time: Keep an eye on your pineapple while grilling; 4-5 minutes per side should yield desirable results without burning.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist on the classic cinnamon flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

Grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with various side dishes, enhancing any meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers complements the sweetness of grilled pineapple.

2. Grilled Chicken Skewers
   Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with aromatic spices provide a savory balance to the sweet dessert.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well with grilled pineapple, creating a harmonious flavor combination.

4. Vegetable Stir-Fry
   A colorful vegetable stir-fry offers crunchiness and freshness, serving as a perfect counterpart to the warm dessert.

5. Coconut Rice
   Creamy coconut rice brings tropical vibes that work wonderfully alongside grilled pineapple flavors.

6. Mixed Greens Salad
   A refreshing mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette adds lightness and acidity to balance out the sweetness of the dessert.

7. Creamy Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and complements the caramelized notes of grilled pineapple perfectly.

8. Rice Pudding
   This creamy dish can be served warm or chilled, making it an indulgent yet comforting side option next to your sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar turns out perfectly.

• Incorrect Grill Temperature: Grilling at too low or high of a temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for medium to medium-high heat for optimal caramelization.

• Skipping the Sugar Mix: Not coating the pineapple in cinnamon sugar will lead to bland flavor. Make sure to mix the brown sugar and cinnamon thoroughly before sprinkling it on the spears.

• Overcooking the Pineapple: Grilling for too long can make the pineapple mushy. Keep an eye on it and grill for only 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

• Not Preparing the Grill Properly: A dirty or ungreased grill can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Clean and coat your grill grates with cooking spray before starting.

• Ignoring Ripeness: Using an unripe or overly ripe pineapple will affect taste and texture. Choose a fresh, ripe pineapple for the best results.

• Cutting Pineapple Incorrectly: Improper slicing can lead to uneven pieces that cook differently. Cut uniform spears for even grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled pineapple in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

• Place grilled pineapple in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pineapple on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Using fresh pineapple is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but if you must use canned, make sure it’s packed in juice without added sugars.

How do I know when my pineapple is ripe?

A ripe pineapple should have a sweet aroma at its base, feel slightly soft when pressed, and have golden color on its exterior.

What other spices can I add to grilled pineapple?

You can experiment by adding nutmeg, ginger, or even chili powder for a spicy kick alongside the cinnamon sugar.

Can I grill other fruits like this?

Absolutely! Fruits like peaches, mangoes, and bananas also work well with cinnamon sugar when grilled.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar is not just a dessert; it’s a versatile treat that can enhance any meal. Its sweet caramelized exterior paired with warm spices creates an irresistible flavor combination. Feel free to customize it by adding different spices or serving it alongside ice cream for an extra special touch!