Grilled Pineapple With Vanilla Cinnamon Ice Cream

The scent of grilled pineapple instantly transports me back to summer evenings on the coast, the salty air mingling with the sweet, caramelized aroma. My grandfather, a master of the grill, always ended our family barbecues with this simple yet unforgettable dessert. He’d let the pineapple char just slightly, creating a smoky sweetness that paired perfectly with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, always doctored up with a dash of cinnamon. It was a tradition filled with laughter, sticky fingers, and the comforting feeling of being surrounded by loved ones.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 servings
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• Pineapple

  • 1 pineapple
  • 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

• Vanilla Cinnamon Ice Cream

  • 1 quart vanilla ice cream
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Equipment Needed

• Grill
• Small Bowl
• Measuring Spoons
• Measuring Cups
• Mixing Spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pineapple: Begin by peeling the pineapple. Carefully remove and discard the pineapple core. The easiest way to do this is to cut the top and bottom off of the pineapple, stand it on its end, and slice the skin off from top to bottom. Then, quarter the pineapple lengthwise and cut out the core from each quarter.

2. Make the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of light brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Ensure the ingredients are well mixed to form a fragrant spice rub.

3. Season the Pineapple: Rub the brown sugar mixture evenly over all sides of the pineapple halves. Be generous to ensure each piece is well coated with the sweet and spicy rub.

4. Prepare the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean to prevent sticking. A lightly oiled grill grate will also help.

5. Grill the Pineapple: Place the pineapple halves directly on the grill grate. Grill, covered with the lid, for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the pineapple is tender and has beautiful grill marks. Keep a close eye to avoid burning; the sugars can caramelize quickly.

6. Slice and Serve: Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill. Cut each half into 1/4 inch thick slices.

7. Prepare the Vanilla Cinnamon Ice Cream: While the pineapple is grilling, stir together the 1 quart of vanilla ice cream, 1/4 cup milk, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon in a bowl. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

8. Freeze the Ice Cream: Freeze the ice cream mixture for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the ice cream to firm up slightly. If you prefer a softer ice cream, you can skip this step.

9. Assemble and Serve: Serve the warm grilled pineapple slices immediately with a scoop of the vanilla cinnamon ice cream.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Grill Marks Matter: For those beautiful grill marks, don’t move the pineapple around too much while grilling. Let it sit undisturbed to develop those caramelized stripes.
• Ginger Boost: If you like a stronger ginger flavor, use a microplane to grate the ginger. This releases more of its aromatic oils.
• Spice Adjustment: Adjust the amount of cinnamon and ginger to your liking. A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can also add a lovely warmth.
• Ice Cream Consistency: For a smoother ice cream, soften the vanilla ice cream slightly before mixing in the milk and spices. This will make it easier to incorporate.
• Make-Ahead Option: The spice rub can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. This saves time when you’re ready to grill.
• Prevent Sticking: To prevent the pineapple from sticking to the grill, lightly oil the grates before grilling. You can also use a grill basket or a piece of aluminum foil (pierced with holes) for easier handling.
• Doneness Check: The pineapple is done when it’s slightly softened and has visible grill marks. Use tongs to gently press on the pineapple; it should yield slightly.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the grilled pineapple immediately while it’s still warm. The contrast between the warm pineapple and the cold ice cream is delightful. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, fresh mint leaves, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flair.

Leftover grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave before serving. Note that the texture may change slightly after refrigeration.

The vanilla cinnamon ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Ensure it’s in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. If the ice cream becomes too hard, let it soften slightly at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	282.1 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	99 g	35%
Total Fat	11 g	16%
Saturated Fat	6.8 g	33%
Cholesterol	43.7 mg	14%
Sodium	87.3 mg	3%
Total Carbohydrate	44.7 g	14%
Dietary Fiber	1.9 g	7%
Sugars	38.7 g	154%
Protein	4.2 g	8%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free Delight: Use a dairy-free vanilla ice cream made from coconut milk, almond milk, or soy milk for a vegan option.
• Tropical Twist: Add a splash of rum or coconut extract to the ice cream for a more pronounced tropical flavor.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the brown sugar rub for a spicy kick.
• Seasonal Fruit: Try grilling other fruits like peaches, nectarines, or mangoes instead of pineapple.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted nuts like macadamia nuts or pecans over the grilled pineapple and ice cream.
• Citrus Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lime to the brown sugar rub for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Herbal Infusion: Instead of ginger, try finely chopped rosemary or thyme mixed with the brown sugar.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?
A: While fresh pineapple is preferred for its texture and flavor, you can use canned pineapple slices in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well before grilling.

Q: How do I know when the pineapple is done on the grill?
A: The pineapple is done when it’s slightly softened, has visible grill marks, and the sugars have caramelized. Use tongs to gently press on the pineapple; it should yield slightly.

Q: Can I make the vanilla cinnamon ice cream ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the ice cream several days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer.

Q: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: You can also cook the pineapple in a grill pan on the stovetop or roast it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: Can I add other spices to the brown sugar rub?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe that the best recipes are those that evoke memories and bring people together. This Grilled Pineapple with Vanilla Cinnamon Ice Cream is more than just a dessert; it’s a taste of summer, a reminder of family traditions, and a simple pleasure that’s sure to delight. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own special moments around it. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and toppings to make it your own. And if you do, please share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear how it turned out! Pair it with a refreshing mojito or a light white wine for the perfect summer evening treat.