The Grilled Pineapple Sundaes are a celebration of summer’s finest flavors. Warm, smoky-sweet pineapple slices are grilled to caramelized perfection and topped with scoops of cold vanilla ice cream. A generous drizzle of luscious dulce de leche cascades down the sides, while a final sprinkle of toasted coconut adds crunch and depth.
This tropical delight is an effortless showstopper, perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or when you simply crave something both refreshing and indulgent. It’s one of those recipes where minimal ingredients come together for a maximum flavor experience—light, exotic, and completely irresistible.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 pineapple slices
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4 scoops vanilla ice cream
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Dulce de leche (or caramel sauce), for drizzling
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2 tablespoons sweetened shredded coconut, toasted
Directions:
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Preheat your grill to high heat.
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Place the pineapple slices directly on the grill. Grill for about 1 minute per side, until they have lovely char marks and are slightly caramelized.
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Transfer the grilled pineapple slices to serving plates.
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Top each slice with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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Drizzle warm dulce de leche or caramel sauce over the top.
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Sprinkle toasted coconut on top and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: ~280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Magic of Grilled Pineapple
Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky, slightly charred flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy desserts. The heat caramelizes the sugars in the fruit, making it even more indulgent. The result is a warm, juicy, and flavorful bite that is both satisfying and refreshing.
The grill marks on the pineapple add a touch of elegance to the dish, making it feel special even though it’s simple to prepare. Whether you choose to grill thick slices or rings, the outcome is always a tropical treat that highlights the natural goodness of pineapple.
Why Grilled Pineapple Sundaes are Perfect for Summer
Summer desserts often lean on the refreshing aspect of seasonal fruits, and pineapples are no exception. Their tropical flavor transports you to a beachy paradise, making this dish the perfect way to wrap up any summer meal. The grilling process amplifies the natural sweetness of the fruit, and paired with cold, rich vanilla ice cream, it’s a match made in dessert heaven.
This recipe requires minimal preparation time, making it ideal for quick gatherings, poolside snacking, or even as a fun, interactive dessert for kids. Grilled Pineapple Sundaes provide a lighter option compared to heavy, traditional desserts like cakes and pies, yet still deliver a satisfying, decadent treat.
The Role of Dulce de Leche and Toasted Coconut
What truly elevates this dessert is the addition of dulce de leche and toasted coconut. Dulce de leche, with its rich, caramel flavor, drizzled over the warm grilled pineapple and cold ice cream, creates a heavenly contrast in both temperature and taste. The creamy caramel sauce blends beautifully with the smokiness of the grilled pineapple, adding another layer of depth to the dessert.
Toasted coconut adds a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness, providing an additional contrast to the smooth texture of the ice cream and the tender pineapple. The coconut’s slight sweetness enhances the tropical vibe, turning each bite into a textural delight.
A Versatile Dessert with Endless Variations
One of the best things about Grilled Pineapple Sundaes is how customizable they are. While the basic ingredients—pineapple, vanilla ice cream, dulce de leche, and toasted coconut—offer a perfect balance, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
For a more indulgent treat, consider swapping vanilla ice cream for coconut-flavored ice cream. This would complement the pineapple and coconut, turning the sundae into a tropical explosion of flavors. You can also experiment with other toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, or even a dash of cinnamon for added warmth.
For those who prefer dairy-free options, substitute vanilla almond or coconut milk ice cream, ensuring that the dessert remains just as decadent. If you’re looking to take this dessert up a notch, you can add a drizzle of rum or a splash of coconut milk for a boozy twist that’s perfect for adult gatherings.
Grilled Pineapple Sundaes for Every Occasion
Grilled Pineapple Sundaes are a great choice for a variety of occasions. Their vibrant and eye-catching presentation makes them an excellent option for a summer dinner party or barbecue. The balance of fruit, ice cream, and caramel sauce appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it a hit among both kids and adults.
This dessert also works well for more casual settings, such as picnics, family gatherings, or a weekend cookout. Since it’s so easy to prepare, it’s perfect for those days when you want a quick, delicious treat without the hassle of complicated preparation.
The Health Benefits of Pineapple
While Grilled Pineapple Sundaes are undeniably a treat, pineapples themselves offer various health benefits. Rich in vitamin C, they help boost your immune system, promote healthy skin, and provide antioxidants that support overall well-being. Pineapples also contain bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
While this dessert is meant to be indulgent, the natural sweetness of the grilled pineapple reduces the need for excessive sugar, making it a slightly healthier option than other sugary desserts. You can enjoy the natural flavors of the fruit while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
The Ease of Preparation
What makes Grilled Pineapple Sundaes even more appealing is how simple they are to prepare. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen, and there’s no complicated baking process involved. With just a few minutes of grilling and assembling, you can create a stunning and mouthwatering dessert that will impress your guests.
If you’re hosting a barbecue, you can prepare the pineapple slices ahead of time and grill them as your guests arrive. The vanilla ice cream, dulce de leche, and toasted coconut can be prepped in advance, making the final assembly a breeze.
Conclusion: A Dessert That Combines Simplicity and Luxury
In conclusion, Grilled Pineapple Sundaes are a perfect summer dessert that combines simplicity and luxury in every bite. The charred pineapple provides a sweet and smoky base, while the ice cream adds a rich, creamy element. The dulce de leche and toasted coconut finish the dish off with a satisfying crunch and sweetness.
This dessert is versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re grilling with friends, enjoying a casual family dinner, or looking for a fun way to end a summer meal, Grilled Pineapple Sundaes offer the perfect balance of flavor and texture. So, next time you’re craving something sweet and tropical, fire up the grill and indulge in this delightful treat that will leave everyone coming back for more.