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Delicious Grilled Pineapple Sundaes with Coconut Caramel

grilled pineapple sundaes - featured image

A quick and easy summer dessert featuring smoky grilled pineapple topped with a rich homemade coconut caramel sauce and creamy vanilla ice cream. Perfect for backyard barbecues and crowd-pleasing sweet treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch thick rings or wedges
  • 1 cup (240 ml) unsweetened full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 cup (200 g) packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) sea salt
  • Vanilla ice cream, for serving
  • Optional: toasted shredded coconut for garnish
  • Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Peel and core the pineapple, then slice into 1/2-inch thick rings or wedges. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure better grilling and caramelization. (5 minutes)
  2. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, about 400°F (204°C). Clean and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. (5 minutes)
  3. Place pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until grill marks appear and edges start caramelizing. You should smell a sweet, smoky aroma. (8 minutes)
  4. While pineapple grills, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved and bubbling, about 3 minutes. Slowly pour in coconut milk, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in vanilla extract and sea salt. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. (15 minutes)
  5. Place grilled pineapple slices in serving bowls or glasses. Spoon warm coconut caramel generously over the top. Add a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream on each sundae. (5 minutes)
  6. Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut and fresh mint leaves if using. Serve immediately so the ice cream melts just right against the warm pineapple and caramel. (2 minutes)

Notes

Dry pineapple slices before grilling for better caramelization. Use moderate heat and stir caramel gently to avoid burning. If caramel thickens too much, stir in a splash of coconut milk to loosen. Grilling times may vary; watch for golden char marks rather than relying solely on time. For vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil and use plant-based ice cream. Broiling pineapple slices is a good alternative if no grill is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled pineapple, coconut caramel, summer dessert, easy dessert, tropical dessert, vanilla ice cream, grilled fruit, homemade caramel