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Sweet and Smoky Grilled Pineapple Brown Sugar Kebabs

grilled pineapple brown sugar kebabs - featured image

These Sweet and Smoky Grilled Pineapple Brown Sugar Kebabs are a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for summer BBQs, featuring caramelized brown sugar and smoky grilled pineapple.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks (about 2 cups or 300 grams)
  • 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar (about 100 grams)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (about 57 grams)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Pinch of salt
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
  • Optional: squeeze of fresh lime juice
  • Optional: sprinkle of chili powder or cayenne pepper for heat

Instructions

  1. Peel, core, and cut the pineapple into about 1-inch chunks, aiming for uniform pieces for even cooking (about 2 cups or 300 grams).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar, 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well combined.
  3. Toss the pineapple chunks in the brown sugar mixture, coating each piece thoroughly. Let sit for 5 minutes to soak up the flavors.
  4. Thread the pineapple chunks onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for heat circulation (4-5 chunks per skewer).
  5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F or 190-205°C). Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Place the pineapple skewers on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs to achieve caramelized edges and grill marks. Watch closely to avoid burning the sugar.
  7. Optionally, brush the kebabs with leftover brown sugar mixture once flipped and grill for another minute for extra glaze.
  8. Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the caramel to set slightly.

Notes

Use firm, ripe pineapple for best grilling results. Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Manage grill heat carefully to avoid burning sugar. Butter helps caramelize the sugar and create a perfect glaze. Can substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine for a vegan version. If no grill available, use a grill pan or broiler but watch closely to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled pineapple, brown sugar kebabs, summer dessert, BBQ dessert, smoky pineapple, easy grilled fruit, sweet and smoky kebabs