Pineapple Cinnamon Grill Recipe

Pineapple: A tropical fruit known for its sweet and tangy flavor, perfect for grilling.

Cinnamon: A warm spice that adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the dish.

Brown sugar: A sweetener that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, enhancing the natural sugars in the pineapple.

When preparing the pineapple, ensure it is ripe for optimal sweetness and flavor. A ripe pineapple will have a sweet aroma at the base and a slight give when pressed. For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the pineapple rings in a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of rum or vanilla extract for about 30 minutes before grilling. This will enhance the caramelization process and infuse the pineapple with a rich, aromatic taste.

• pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango provides a similar tropical sweetness and can be grilled to achieve a caramelized flavor.

• pineapple - Substitute with peach: Peaches have a juicy texture and sweet taste that complement the cinnamon and brown sugar when grilled.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, spicy flavor that can mimic the aromatic qualities of cinnamon.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with allspice: Allspice has a complex flavor profile that includes hints of cinnamon, making it a suitable alternative.

• brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and can caramelize beautifully when grilled.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich, sweet flavor and can create a similar glaze effect when used in grilling.

• Allow the pineapple rings to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the grilled pineapple rings in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent the absorption of other flavors.

• If you wish to freeze the pineapple rings, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step prevents them from sticking together.

• Once the pineapple rings are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the container with the date to keep track of their freshness. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen pineapple rings in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave.

• To reheat, place the thawed pineapple rings back on the grill for a couple of minutes on each side, or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

• Consider adding a fresh sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar before reheating to enhance the flavors and give them a freshly grilled taste.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pineapple rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and the cinnamon-sugar topping is slightly caramelized.

• Use a microwave for a quick fix. Arrange the pineapple rings on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to trap the moisture. Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Fire up a grill pan on the stovetop over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with a bit of butter or cooking spray. Place the pineapple rings in the pan and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they are warmed and have those enticing grill marks.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Lay the pineapple rings in a single layer in the basket. Heat for about 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even warming.

• For a touch of elegance, use a broiler. Place the pineapple rings on a broiler-safe pan. Broil them for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning, until they are warmed and the cinnamon-sugar is bubbly and slightly crisp.

• Grill: Used to cook the pineapple rings, providing them with a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks.

• Small bowl: Utilized to mix the cinnamon and brown sugar evenly before applying it to the pineapple.

• Tongs: Handy for flipping the pineapple rings on the grill without burning your fingers.

• Knife: Essential for peeling, coring, and cutting the pineapple into rings if not pre-prepared.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the pineapple safely.

• Measuring spoons: Used to accurately measure the cinnamon and brown sugar for the recipe.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Peel, core, and slice the pineapple the night before. Mix the cinnamon and brown sugar ahead of time and store in an airtight container.

Use a grill pan: If you don't have access to an outdoor grill, use a grill pan on the stove. It heats up faster and requires less cleanup.

Batch grilling: Grill multiple pineapple rings at once to save time. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

Quick cleanup: Line the grill with foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.