Grilled Pineapple Sundaes

Grilled Pineapple Sundaes are a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with the classic comfort of vanilla ice cream. The touch of warm, caramel-like dulce de leche and crunchy, toasted coconut adds layers of flavor and texture. This treat captures the essence of summer, making it perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or a sweet ending to any meal. Whether you’re a pineapple lover or just looking for a refreshing dessert, Grilled Pineapple Sundaes offer a unique twist that is sure to impress your family and friends.

This recipe is not just easy to make; it’s also visually appealing. The golden-brown grill marks on the pineapple slices, the creamy ice cream, and the drizzle of dulce de leche create a feast for the eyes. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Let’s dive into how you can create this cheerful dessert that is both fun and satisfying!

Ingredients about Grilled Pineapple Sundaes

To create a delicious batch of Grilled Pineapple Sundaes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 pineapple slices
• 4 scoops of vanilla ice cream
• Dulce de leche for drizzling
• 2 tablespoons of sweetened shredded coconut, toasted

For those who want to experiment or are limited by specific dietary preferences, consider these optional ingredient substitutions:

• Instead of vanilla ice cream, you might try coconut or almond ice cream for a different flavor profile.
• Caramel sauce can be used in place of dulce de leche if it’s more accessible.
• Unsweetened shredded coconut can replace sweetened coconut for a healthier alternative.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple Sundaes

Step 1: Prepare the grill

Start by heating your grill to high. While the grill heats up, prepare your pineapple slices. Make sure they are cut into even, thick slices so they cook evenly. If your pineapple isn’t ripe, it might not caramelize as nicely, so choose a fresh, sweet pineapple for the best results.

Step 2: Grill the pineapple

Once the grill is hot, place the pineapple slices on the grates. Grill them for about 1 minute per side. The goal is to get a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and sweet. Be sure to watch them closely, as they can go from perfectly grilled to burnt quickly.

Step 3: Assemble the sundae

Once your pineapple slices are beautifully charred, remove them from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Take a scoop of vanilla ice cream and carefully place it on top of each grilled pineapple slice. The heat from the pineapple will gently soften the ice cream, creating a blissful melty goodness.

Step 4: Finish with toppings

Now it’s time to dress up your sundae! Drizzle a generous amount of dulce de leche over the ice cream and pineapple. This adds a rich, sweet flavor that complements the pineapple beautifully. Finally, sprinkle the toasted coconut on top for a crunchy finish. Serve these heavenly sundaes immediately while they’re warm.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple Sundaes

Best ways to serve Grilled Pineapple Sundaes

Grilled Pineapple Sundaes are best enjoyed fresh off the grill. Serve them on individual plates to make it easy for guests to dive right in. For added flair, you might decorate the serving table with fresh mint leaves or additional toasted coconut to entice your guests.

Serving suggestions or pairings

These sundaes pair wonderfully with a fruity cocktail or a refreshing iced tea. If you’re looking to create a full dessert table, you may want to consider serving them with options like brownies, cookies, or other fruit-based desserts to offer a variety of flavors to your guests.

How to Store Grilled Pineapple Sundaes

Proper storage methods

If you have any leftovers (though unlikely!), you should store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator. However, be aware that the texture of the ice cream and grilled pineapple might change upon refrigeration, and it’s best to enjoy this dessert fresh.

Tips for reheating or freezing

For the best experience, reheating is not recommended due to the ice cream. If you do want to save the grilled pineapple, you can slice it and freeze it. When ready to use, allow it to thaw before reheating lightly on the grill or in a skillet for a few seconds to refresh the flavors.

Tips to Make Grilled Pineapple Sundaes

Common mistakes to avoid

When making Grilled Pineapple Sundaes, be careful not to over-grill the pineapple. It should be charred but still juicy. Also, adding too much dulce de leche can overpower the other flavors, so drizzle moderately.

Helpful tips for better results

For extra flavor, consider marinating the pineapple in a mixture of lime juice and honey for about 30 minutes before grilling. This will enhance its sweetness and add a lovely tang. Make sure your grill is well-oiled to prevent sticking, ensuring perfect removal after grilling.

Variation of Grilled Pineapple Sundaes

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

If you want to mix things up, you can try using different fruits in addition to or instead of pineapple, such as peaches or bananas. The process remains the same, and you can still drizzle the ice cream with dulce de leche for a similar effect.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For vegan or dairy-free options, substitute coconut ice cream for vanilla ice cream and use agave syrup or a dairy-free caramel in place of the dulce de leche. You can also toast the coconut in coconut oil for even more flavor.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your pineapple is not grill-marked or caramelized as you’d like, ensure your grill is hot enough before placing the fruit. If it’s too cold, the pineapple will release moisture instead of searing. Adjust the grilling time as necessary, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Grilled Pineapple Sundaes are best served fresh, but you can prepare the pineapple ahead and store it in the fridge overnight. Grill it right before serving. However, ice cream must be scooped fresh to avoid melt issues.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

If you don’t have dulce de leche, feel free to use caramel sauce or chocolate sauce as an alternative drizzle. For the coconut, you can use nuts like chopped almonds or walnuts for a similar texture without coconut flavor.

With its stunning combination of flavor and aesthetic appeal, Grilled Pineapple Sundaes are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Whether for a summer barbecue or a simple weeknight dessert, this sweet treat will make any occasion feel special. Enjoy the process and experiment with ingredients to create your perfect sundae!

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