Grilled Pineapple with Vanilla Ice Cream

Grilled Pineapple with Vanilla Ice Cream is a refreshing and indulgent dessert that combines the smoky sweetness of caramelized pineapple with the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream. Topped with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a touch of fresh mint, this dessert offers the perfect balance of warm and cold, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is a perfect fusion of tropical flavors and comforting sweetness. Grilling the pineapple brings out its natural sugars, resulting in a delicious caramelization that enhances its flavor. Paired with the smooth, cold vanilla ice cream, it creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. The addition of honey, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt adds a depth of flavor, while the caramel sauce and mint leaves elevate it to a sophisticated treat that is both simple and impressive.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/2-inch rings
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
• 2 tbsp caramel sauce (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Pineapple:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, combine the honey (or maple syrup), melted butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.
3. Brush the pineapple rings with the honey-butter mixture on both sides.

Grill the Pineapple:

1. Place the pineapple rings on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the pineapple becomes caramelized and tender.
2. Remove the pineapple from the grill and set aside to cool slightly.

Serve:

1. Arrange the grilled pineapple rings on a serving plate.
2. Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in the center of each pineapple ring.
3. Drizzle with caramel sauce (if desired) and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Enjoy:

1. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious contrast of warm, grilled pineapple with cold, creamy ice cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 servings
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Fruit Options: You can substitute pineapple with other tropical fruits such as mango, peaches, or even watermelon for a variation on the grilled fruit.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream and replace the butter with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly version.
• Caramel Alternatives: Instead of caramel sauce, you can drizzle the grilled pineapple with chocolate sauce, fruit syrup, or honey for a different flavor profile.
• Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the honey-butter mixture for a spiced variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This dessert is best served fresh. However, you can store the grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The ice cream should also be stored in the freezer.
• Reheating: Grilled pineapple can be gently reheated on the grill for a few minutes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

While fresh pineapple is preferred for grilling, you can use canned pineapple rings if needed. Just be sure to drain and pat them dry before grilling to prevent excess moisture.

2. Can I grill the pineapple on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, if you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan. Preheat the pan and cook the pineapple rings for a few minutes on each side until grill marks appear.

3. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

You can prepare the grilled pineapple in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. However, the ice cream should be added just before serving for the best presentation.

4. Can I use a different flavor of ice cream?

Yes, you can use any flavor of ice cream you like, such as coconut, mango, or even chocolate, to pair with the grilled pineapple for a different flavor combination.

5. How do I know when the pineapple is grilled properly?

The pineapple is ready when it has nice grill marks, is golden brown, and feels tender when pierced with a fork. It should not be overly soft or mushy.

6. Can I use a grill basket for the pineapple?

Yes, using a grill basket is a great way to ensure the pineapple stays in place while grilling, especially if the rings are small or delicate.

7. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey or maple syrup?

Yes, you can use agave syrup, brown sugar, or coconut sugar for a different sweetness. Just adjust the quantity based on your preference.

8. Can I skip the caramel sauce?

Yes, the caramel sauce is optional. The grilled pineapple with vanilla ice cream is already delicious on its own, and the honey-butter glaze adds enough sweetness.

9. Is there a way to make this dessert less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup in the pineapple glaze or skip the caramel sauce altogether. You can also serve the pineapple with a tangy sorbet instead of ice cream.

10. Can I make this dessert for a larger group?

Absolutely! Simply double or triple the ingredients, and grill the pineapple in batches. Serve the grilled pineapple with multiple scoops of ice cream for a larger group.

Conclusion

Grilled Pineapple with Vanilla Ice Cream is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that combines smoky-sweet pineapple with creamy vanilla ice cream. The addition of caramel sauce and fresh mint elevates the dessert, making it perfect for summer gatherings or any time you’re in the mood for a refreshing and indulgent treat. With its balance of flavors and textures, this dessert is sure to become a favorite!