This grilled pineapple is a sweet and tropical treat that brings a burst of sunshine to your plate. The juicy slices caramelize on the grill, making them perfectly tender and tasty!
And that coconut cinnamon whipped cream? Oh boy, it’s like a dreamy cloud on top! You might find yourself sneaking spoonfuls before it even hits the pineapple. 🍍💖
I love serving this dessert at gatherings; it’s quick to make, and everyone always asks for seconds. Plus, who can resist such a fun and fruity combo? Enjoy every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: The star of this recipe! Look for a ripe pineapple that’s fragrant and yielding slightly to pressure. If fresh pineapple is unavailable, you can use canned pineapple rings, but they may not have the same natural flavor and texture.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives the whipped cream its rich texture. If you want a lighter version, try light coconut milk, but remember it won’t whip up as thick. For a non-coconut option, heavy cream works well; just make sure to whip it until soft peaks form.
Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely caramel flavor to the pineapple. If you don’t have brown sugar, white sugar mixed with a little molasses can work as a substitute. Alternatively, coconut sugar brings a nice flavor, too.
Cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances both the coconut cream and the pineapple. If you like a bolder flavor, try adding nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist.
How Can I Make Perfect Coconut Whipped Cream?
Creating fluffy coconut whipped cream is all about the right technique. Start with a chilled can of coconut milk, which helps it whip better. Follow these steps for success:
- Refrigerate the can overnight to let the cream separate from the liquid. Use only the solid cream on top.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the coconut cream on medium speed until it’s smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Whip until fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- If desired, fold in a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor, but don’t overmix!
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious topping that perfectly complements the grilled pineapple!
How to Make Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 medium ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
- 1 can (13.5 ounces) full-fat coconut milk, refrigerated overnight
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 30 minutes. You’ll enjoy preparing the sweet coconut cream and grilling the pineapple to create a truly tropical treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coconut Cream:
Start by opening the chilled can of coconut milk. You’ll notice that the cream has risen to the top. Scoop out just the solid coconut cream into a mixing bowl, and feel free to discard the liquid or save it for another recipe. Using an electric mixer, beat the coconut cream on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy.
2. Sweeten and Flavor the Cream:
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the creamy coconut mixture. Continue beating until the cream becomes light and fluffy. If you’d like a touch more flavor, you can fold in a pinch of cinnamon. Set this delicious whipped cream aside for later.
3. Grill the Pineapple:
Next, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Brush both sides of each pineapple ring with this sweet sugar mixture to give them a nice flavor as they grill.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Now, place the pineapple rings on the hot grill. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice grill marks and a bit of caramelization to show that they’re ready.
5. Serve:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and let them cool slightly. Serve the warm grilled pineapple topped with a generous dollop of your coconut cinnamon whipped cream. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh mint leaves for a beautiful touch!
6. Enjoy:
Take a moment to enjoy the tropical flavors of this delightful dessert. Each bite is a refreshing treat—perfect for a warm day or any time you want a little escape!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple is a great choice and will provide a deliciously juicy flavor. Just make sure it’s ripe for the best sweetness. Follow the same peeling, coring, and slicing steps as indicated in the recipe.
What If I Don’t Have Coconut Milk?
If you don’t have coconut milk, you can substitute it with heavy cream or other non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or soy cream. Keep in mind that these will give a different flavor and texture compared to coconut. For the coconut flavor, you might add a splash of coconut extract if available!
Can I Make the Whipped Cream Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the coconut cinnamon whipped cream ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick whip before serving to restore its fluffy texture.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
To store leftover grilled pineapple, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold, or reheat it briefly on the grill or in a skillet to restore its warmth and flavor!
