Grilled Pineapple Sundaes Recipe

Grilled pineapple sundaes are a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh pineapple with creamy vanilla ice cream. This recipe features 4 slices of fresh pineapple brushed with melted butter and grilled to perfection, creating a warm and caramelized treat.

Topped with 4 scoops of vanilla ice cream, drizzled with caramel sauce, and sprinkled with cinnamon, toasted coconut, and chopped nuts, this dessert is sure to impress at any gathering.

Grilled Pineapple: A Sweet Treat

Grilled pineapple sundaes are one of those summer desserts that take almost no effort but deliver big-time flavor.

I first made them at a family cookout, and now they’ve become a must-have whenever the grill’s fired up.

Juicy pineapple rings caramelize beautifully on the grill and pair perfectly with creamy vanilla ice cream and a warm caramel drizzle. It’s a tropical, gooey dream served in a bowl!

The process of grilling enhances the natural sweetness of fresh pineapple, creating a warm, caramelized layer that pairs beautifully with ice cream.

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Recipe Highlights

This recipe is the definition of simple and spectacular. When the natural sugars in pineapple hit the grill, they caramelize into a golden, smoky-sweet layer that’s irresistible.

Paired with velvety vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce, each bite is the perfect balance of hot and cold, sweet and tangy.

It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet refreshing and is done in under 15 minutes.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Grilled fruit adds depth and natural caramelization
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• Cold, creamy ice cream melts over warm pineapple
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• Fast, no-fuss dessert idea
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• Customizable with different toppings
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• Perfect for cookouts and summer entertaining

Ingredient Notes

• Fresh Pineapple Rings: Use thick, fresh pineapple slices—core removed—for optimal grill marks and juiciness.
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• Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic pairing that complements the grilled fruit beautifully.
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• Caramel Sauce: A warm drizzle brings sweetness and richness to tie it all together.
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• Butter (optional): Brushing the pineapple rings with melted butter helps them grill more evenly and enhances caramelization.
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• Cinnamon (optional): Adds a subtle warm spice to the pineapple if you want a flavor twist.

How to Make My Grilled Pineapple Sundaes

1. Prep the Grill: Preheat your grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates if needed.
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2. Slice and Butter: Cut a fresh pineapple into thick rings and remove the core. Brush both sides lightly with melted butter if desired.
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3. Grill the Pineapple: Grill each ring for 2–3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the fruit is tender and caramelized.
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4. Assemble the Sundaes: Place one or two grilled pineapple rings into a bowl. Top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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5. Drizzle and Serve: Warm caramel sauce slightly and drizzle it over the sundae. Serve immediately!

Creating the Perfect Sundae

To assemble this delightful sundae, start with 4 scoops of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm pineapple and the ice cream is simply irresistible.

Once the ice cream is in place, drizzle caramel sauce generously over the top. This rich addition enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a treat for the senses.

Adding Flavorful Garnishes

The finishing touches are what truly elevate this dessert. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth and depth, while toasted coconut introduces a delightful crunch.

Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, provide an additional layer of texture and flavor.

Together, these garnishes create a harmonious blend that complements the grilled pineapple and ice cream.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This grilled pineapple sundae is an ideal dessert for summer gatherings, barbecues, or simply as a refreshing treat any time of the year.

Its vibrant colors and inviting presentation make it a standout choice.

Whether serving it at a festive event or enjoying it on a quiet evening, this dessert is sure to impress.

The combination of warm, caramelized pineapple with ice cream and rich toppings is a delightful experience.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Preparing this sundae is straightforward and takes only about 16 minutes. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and 6 minutes of cooking, you can have this delicious dessert ready in no time.

Gather your ingredients, including fresh pineapple, melted butter, vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, cinnamon, toasted coconut, and chopped nuts.

The simplicity of the recipe allows for quick assembly, making it a go-to option for dessert lovers.

Nutrition and Serving Suggestions

Each serving of this grilled pineapple sundae contains approximately 310 calories, making it a delightful yet manageable indulgence.

With 4 servings in total, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Consider pairing this dessert with a light summer drink or serving it alongside fresh fruit for a well-rounded treat.

The combination of flavors and textures is sure to leave a lasting impression.

• Serve after a BBQ dinner of grilled burgers, chicken, or ribs.
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• Pair with a tropical cocktail, such as a piña colada or mojito.
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• Add toasted coconut or chopped macadamia nuts for an extra textural element.
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• Serve the grilled pineapple over pound cake for a more decadent dessert base.

Tips for the Best Grilled Pineapple Sundaes

Use fresh, ripe pineapple—it makes a huge difference in sweetness and texture. Don’t skip the butter brushing step if you want that extra golden crust.

Grilling for just a few minutes per side is key; overcooking can make the pineapple too soft. For easier caramel drizzle, warm it just slightly before using.

And always assemble your sundaes right before serving so the ice cream stays firm against the warm fruit.

Storage & Leftovers

• Storage: Best served immediately after grilling.
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• Leftovers: Store grilled pineapple separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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• Reheating: Warm the pineapple slightly on the grill or in a skillet before using again.
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• Ice Cream Tip: Only assemble when ready to serve to keep the ice cream from melting prematurely.