Description
These Grilled Pineapple Sundaes combine the smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple with creamy vanilla ice cream and a rich coconut rum caramel sauce, garnished with toasted coconut for a tropical dessert that is both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want a vibrant, flavorful treat.
Ingredients
For the Coconut Rum Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup coconut rum
- 1/4 cup dark rum
For the Grilled Pineapple Sundaes
- 1 whole fresh pineapple
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- toasted coconut to garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Coconut Rum Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar, unsalted butter, and ground cinnamon. Cook over low heat until the sugar dissolves completely, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add the rums: Carefully pour in the coconut rum and dark rum, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.
- Store the sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and transfer the caramel sauce to a sealed container. Refrigerate until ready to use to let it cool and thicken further.
- Prepare the pineapple: Lay the whole pineapple on its side and slice it into approximately 1/2-inch thick rounds. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut around the outside edge of each slice to remove the skin.
- Remove the core: Use an apple corer or a sharp knife to remove the core from the center of each pineapple slice, creating a ring shape.
- Grill the pineapple: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear and the pineapple is warmed through and slightly caramelized.
- Assemble the sundaes: Place each grilled pineapple slice in a serving bowl or plate. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream (or coconut ice cream for extra tropical flavor) and generously drizzle with the chilled coconut rum caramel sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle toasted coconut over the top for added texture and flavor if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm pineapple, cold ice cream, and rich caramel sauce.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rums and substitute with an equal amount of coconut extract and water in the caramel sauce.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broil the pineapple slices in the oven for similar caramelization.
- For extra flavor, dash a pinch of nutmeg into the caramel sauce.
- Use ripe pineapples for the best natural sweetness and texture.
- To toast coconut, spread shredded coconut on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American