Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

Introduction

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar is the perfect summer treat that effortlessly combines the natural sweetness of ripe pineapple with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and sugar. As the pineapple grills, the sugars in the fruit caramelize, creating a crispy, golden edge with a smoky char that elevates the fruit’s flavor. The result is a delightful dessert or snack that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a sunny afternoon, or just craving something sweet, this grilled pineapple is sure to hit the spot.

The first time I made Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar, I was amazed by how easily it transformed into something extraordinary. As the pineapple slices sizzled on the grill, the mouthwatering scent filled the air, making everyone eager for a bite. The cinnamon sugar sprinkled on top melted into the warm fruit, adding just the right amount of sweetness and spice. With each bite, the balance of juicy, tender pineapple and the crispy, caramelized edges was absolutely irresistible.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a dessert after a meal, add it to a fruit salad for extra flavor, or even pair it with vanilla ice cream for a refreshing twist. You can also experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or ginger, to create new flavor combinations. Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar is an easy, crowd-pleasing treat that brings a taste of summer to any occasion.

Perfect for

• Summer barbecues
• Outdoor gatherings
• Casual desserts
• Simple snacks
• Pineapple lovers

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

Here’s why Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar will become your new favorite dessert:

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and very little effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: The grilling process caramelizes the pineapple, intensifying its sweetness and adding a smoky depth that is simply irresistible.
• Versatile: Grilled pineapple can be served as a dessert, snack, or even as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
• Naturally Sweet: Pineapple is naturally sweet, so this dessert is a healthier alternative to more processed sweets.
• Customizable: You can easily customize the recipe with different spices, toppings, or serving suggestions to suit your personal preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Vitamin C: 70mg, Manganese: 1mg, Fiber: 2g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar:

• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings or wedges
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil (optional, for brushing)

Ingredient Highlights

• Fresh Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple that is fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. Avoid pineapples that are overly green or have bruises.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the pineapple during grilling.
• Ground Cinnamon: Provides a warm and aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Melted Butter or Coconut Oil (Optional): Brushing the pineapple with melted butter or coconut oil helps to prevent it from sticking to the grill and adds a touch of richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar:

Prepare the Pineapple:

1. Peel and Core: Peel the pineapple by cutting off the top and bottom, then slicing off the sides. Remove any remaining “eyes” with a paring knife. Core the pineapple using a pineapple corer or by cutting around the core with a knife.
2. Slice: Slice the pineapple into rings that are about ½-inch thick, or cut into wedges.
3. Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix well.

Grill the Pineapple:

1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F or 175-200°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed.
2. Brush with Butter/Oil (Optional): If desired, brush the pineapple slices or wedges with melted butter or coconut oil. This will help prevent sticking and add a touch of richness.
3. Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over both sides of the pineapple slices or wedges.
4. Grill: Place the pineapple on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly softened and caramelized.
5. Check for Doneness: The pineapple is ready when it is heated through, slightly softened, and has beautiful grill marks.

Serve:

1. Remove from Grill: Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and transfer it to a serving plate.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the grilled pineapple warm, either on its own or with your favorite toppings.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Dessert: Serve grilled pineapple as a simple and satisfying dessert.
• With Ice Cream: Top grilled pineapple with a scoop of vanilla, coconut, or caramel ice cream for an extra special treat.
• With Yogurt: Serve grilled pineapple with Greek yogurt for a healthy and delicious snack or breakfast.
• As a Topping: Use grilled pineapple as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
• In Salads: Add grilled pineapple to salads for a sweet and smoky flavor.
• As a Garnish: Use grilled pineapple as a garnish for grilled meats or seafood.

Additional Tips for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

Here are some tips to ensure your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar is perfect every time:

• Choose a Ripe Pineapple: The key to delicious grilled pineapple is to start with a ripe pineapple. Look for a pineapple that is fragrant and slightly soft to the touch.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Grill the pineapple in batches to avoid overcrowding the grill, which can lower the temperature and prevent the pineapple from caramelizing properly.
• Watch the Heat: Keep a close eye on the grill and adjust the heat as needed to prevent the pineapple from burning.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a unique flavor.

Recipe Variations for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

Here are some variations you can try for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar:

• Honey Glazed Pineapple: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the grilled pineapple for added sweetness.
• Coconut Grilled Pineapple: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the grilled pineapple for a tropical twist.
• Rum Glazed Pineapple: Brush the pineapple with a mixture of rum, butter, and brown sugar before grilling.
• Spiced Grilled Pineapple: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
• Lime Grilled Pineapple: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the grilled pineapple for a tangy and refreshing flavor.
• Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer, caramel-like flavor.
• Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Thread pineapple chunks onto skewers with other fruits like strawberries, kiwi, or mango for a colorful and fun dessert.
• Ginger-Lime Grilled Pineapple: Marinate the pineapple in a mixture of ginger, lime juice, and honey before grilling.
• Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Dice the grilled pineapple and combine it with red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice for a delicious salsa.
• Grilled Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Use grilled pineapple slices to make a grilled pineapple upside-down cake.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Grilled pineapple is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
• Storage: Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar easier:

• Grill: A grill (gas, charcoal, or electric) is essential for achieving the smoky, caramelized flavor.
• Pineapple Corer (Optional): A pineapple corer makes it easy to remove the core from the pineapple.
• Knife: A sharp knife is needed for peeling and slicing the pineapple.
• Grill Tongs: Grill tongs are helpful for flipping and handling the pineapple on the grill.
• Small Bowl: A small bowl is used for mixing the cinnamon sugar.
• Pastry Brush (Optional): A pastry brush can be used to brush the pineapple with melted butter or coconut oil.

FAQ Section for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

1. Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?
   Fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but canned pineapple rings can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well before grilling.
2. Can I grill the pineapple indoors?
   Yes, you can grill the pineapple indoors using a grill pan or an electric grill.
3. How do I know when the pineapple is ripe?
   A ripe pineapple will have a sweet fragrance and will be slightly soft to the touch. The leaves should also pull out easily.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Grilled pineapple is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the pineapple slices and cinnamon sugar mixture ahead of time.
5. What else can I add to the cinnamon sugar mixture?
   You can add other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a unique flavor.

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Conclusion

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar is a simple and delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness of pineapple with a touch of warmth and caramelization from the grill. It’s a versatile dessert or snack that’s perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to casual weeknight treats. With its easy preparation and customizable flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

I’d love to see your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar creations! Be sure to tag me on Instagram with your version—I can’t wait to see how you bring this luscious dish to life. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts. Happy grilling!