This grilled pineapple is a sweet treat that combines juicy fruit with a tasty coconut cinnamon whipped cream. It’s fresh, fun, and perfect for summer outings!
You can’t beat that caramelized flavor of the pineapple paired with the creamy topping. Believe me, you’ll want seconds! 🌞 I love serving it at barbecues for a light and fruity dessert.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is crucial for this recipe. Look for one that’s slightly soft and fragrant. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple in juice can work too, but the texture may be different.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses or just plain granulated sugar. Coconut sugar can be an excellent alternative, too!
Coconut Cream: Chilled coconut cream gives the whipped topping a rich texture. If you can’t find it, full-fat coconut milk can also work, but make sure to chill it well before whipping.
Mint Leaves: Mint isn’t necessary but adds a fresh touch. If you don’t like mint or don’t have any, feel free to skip or replace with basil for a different flair.
How Do I Grill Pineapple to Get Perfect Grill Marks?
Grilling pineapple can seem tricky, but here’s how to get those beautiful grill marks! The key is to get your grill hot enough and manage your timing.
- First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill helps caramelize the sugars.
- Once hot, place the pineapple rings on the grill without overcrowding them. This allows even cooking and good grill marks.
- Grill each side for about 2-3 minutes. Don’t flip too soon; wait until you see grill marks before turning them over!
- After grilling, let them cool for a minute before serving to enjoy the mellowed sweetness.
Grilled Pineapple With Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup coconut cream (chilled)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert will take around 15 minutes to prepare and another 6-8 minutes for grilling. So, in about 20-25 minutes, you’ll be ready to enjoy your refreshing grilled pineapple with a fluffy coconut cinnamon whipped cream!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
Start by peeling the pineapple. Cut off the top and bottom, then carefully slice off the skin, making sure to remove any “eyes” (the brown spots). After that, remove the core and slice the pineapple into rings that are about 1/2 inch thick. This will allow for even grilling.
2. Season the Pineapple:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined. Take the pineapple rings and sprinkle this sweet mixture over both sides of each ring. This will add a delicious caramelized flavor when grilled!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to create those beautiful grill marks and caramelize the fruit.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Once the grill is ready, place the pineapple rings on it. Grill each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until you see nice grill marks and the pineapple starts to caramelize a bit. This step adds amazing flavor and sweetness to the fruit!
5. Make the Coconut Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
While the pineapple is grilling, let’s prepare the whipped cream. In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled coconut cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, whip the mixture until it becomes fluffy and light. This should take just a few minutes. Don’t worry if it’s not too firm; it will still be delicious!
6. Assemble and Serve:
Once the pineapple rings are done grilling, remove them from the grill and allow them to cool slightly. Now, serve the grilled pineapple on a plate and add a generous scoop of your fluffy coconut cinnamon whipped cream on the side. If you like, you can also garnish with fresh mint leaves for a touch of color and extra freshness.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious grilled pineapple with coconut cinnamon whipped cream. It’s a great treat for any occasion!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but fresh is recommended for the best texture and flavor. If using canned, make sure to drain it well before grilling. Keep in mind that canned pineapple will likely be softer, so grill it for less time to prevent it from falling apart.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Cream?
If you don’t have coconut cream, you can use heavy cream instead for a different flavor profile. Simply whip the heavy cream as directed in the recipe. Alternatively, for a dairy-free option, try a non-dairy whipped topping, but be aware the flavor will differ slightly.
How to Store Leftover Pineapple and Whipped Cream
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The whipped cream can also be stored in the fridge for about 2-3 days, but it may require re-whipping once chilled as it can lose its fluffiness.
Can I Make the Whipped Cream Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coconut cinnamon whipped cream a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a light whip before serving to restore the airy texture if it has settled.
