Sun-Kissed Pineapple Sundae

Grilled Pineapple with Ice Cream: Your Go-To Easy Summer Dessert

Summer days are made for effortless enjoyment, and nothing embodies that spirit quite like a dessert that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. This grilled pineapple recipe is the epitome of a perfect summer treat, transforming ordinary fruit into a caramelized masterpiece. Imagine succulent, warm pineapple slices, fresh off the grill with beautiful char marks, beautifully complemented by generous scoops of cool, creamy caramel toffee crunch ice cream. This delightful dessert can be ready in a remarkable 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for warm evenings when you want to savor a sweet indulgence without heating up your kitchen. It’s a delightful way to conclude any outdoor meal, offering a harmonious balance of sweet, smoky, and refreshing flavors that will leave everyone craving more.

Recipe Overview: Quick, Delicious, and Effortless

Why you’ll love it: Grilling pineapple is a culinary revelation. The intense heat works magic, caramelizing the fruit’s natural sugars, which not only deepens its sweetness but also infuses it with a subtle, enticing smoky flavor. The result is a warm, tender, and lusciously sweet base that pairs exquisitely with rich, cold ice cream. This creates a sophisticated yet incredibly simple dessert experience that’s perfect for any occasion.

How long it takes: From initial preparation to serving, this dessert is remarkably fast. You’ll only need approximately 5 minutes for prep work and about 10 minutes on the grill for the pineapple to reach caramelized perfection. This makes it an ideal choice for spontaneous sweet cravings or when you need a quick dessert after a barbecue.

Equipment you’ll need: Simplicity is key. All you’ll require is a functional grill (whether gas or charcoal), a pastry brush for applying oil, and an ice cream scoop to serve those creamy portions. Minimal fuss, maximum flavor – that’s the promise of this recipe.

Servings: This recipe is designed to generously serve 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners, small gatherings, or as a delightful offering at your next backyard cookout.

Grilled pineapple topped with a generous scoop of rich caramel toffee crunch ice cream and a luscious drizzle of caramel sauce, embodying the ultimate summer dessert experience.
Indulge in the simple yet profound pleasure of warm, caramelized grilled pineapple paired with cold, decadent ice cream.

This post is proudly brought to you in partnership with Tillamook, a brand synonymous with exceptional quality and delicious dairy products. While this collaboration supports our work in bringing you delectable recipes, please be assured that all opinions and recommendations expressed here are genuinely my own, reflecting my authentic culinary experiences.

Why Grilled Pineapple & Ice Cream Is the Ultimate Summer Dessert Choice

When the sun is shining and temperatures soar, the last thing anyone wants to do is turn on the oven and bake. Summer calls for desserts that are light, refreshing, and, most importantly, don’t require you to spend precious time indoors in a hot kitchen. This is where grilled desserts truly shine, offering a fantastic alternative that keeps you outside, enjoying the weather, and creates incredible flavors with minimal effort and cleanup. Grilled pineapple with ice cream isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer’s simplicity and deliciousness, delivering a “wow” factor with surprising ease.

This particular dessert concept becomes an absolute lifesaver on evenings when your grill is already fired up for a main course. Instead of letting the coals die down or cooling off your gas grill, you can seamlessly transition from savory barbecue to a show-stopping sweet treat in mere minutes. The inherent simplicity of the ingredients belies the incredible depth of flavor it ultimately delivers. The natural sugars present in the pineapple caramelize beautifully under the grill’s intense heat, concentrating their sweetness and developing a wonderfully complex profile with a distinct, appealing smoky char. This warm, tender fruit, with its enticing aroma and succulent texture, creates a phenomenal contrast when paired with the cool, creamy indulgence of ice cream. This interplay of textures and temperatures elevates the dish beyond a simple fruit dessert, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.

Beyond its delicious taste and the sheer convenience it offers, this recipe boasts remarkable versatility. I’ll not only guide you through the core recipe but also share an array of tips and creative ideas to elevate it further, transforming it into an impressive centerpiece for an ice cream social or a delightful addition to any party occasion. Prepare to revolutionize your perception of fruit desserts and discover a new favorite for your summer repertoire!

Irresistible Reasons You’ll Adore This Easy Grilled Pineapple Dessert

  • Unbelievably Quick Preparation: Forget about lengthy baking times, complex layering, or intricate decorations. This grilled pineapple dessert is a true lightning-fast wonder, requiring only 10 minutes on the grill to achieve perfection. It’s the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when a sweet craving hits, or for those impromptu gatherings when you need to whip up something spectacular without stress. You can present a gourmet-quality dessert without breaking a sweat or turning your home into a sauna, making it a truly smart choice for summer.
  • An Explosion of Unique Flavor: Grilling pineapple is a transformative culinary technique. The direct, intense heat works wonders, coaxing out and caramelizing the fruit’s natural sugars. This process not only concentrates and deepens its inherent sweetness but also develops a wonderfully complex flavor profile. You’ll experience delightful hints of smoky char, a juicy tropical tang, and an overall richness that elevates the pineapple far beyond its raw state. It’s an indulgent treat that still feels remarkably light and summery, instantly evoking a sense of tropical escape and serious Hawaiian holiday vibes with every luscious bite.
  • The Perfect Pairing: Tillamook Caramel Toffee Crunch Ice Cream: While a good quality ice cream will always be a welcome addition, I am absolutely passionate about topping my grilled pineapple with Tillamook’s Caramel Toffee Crunch Ice Cream. This is no ordinary ice cream; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors meticulously crafted for maximum delight. It boasts an incredibly ultra-creamy, rich, and smooth base, generously loaded with thick ribbons of soft, sweet caramel, and an abundance of crunchy toffee pieces, nutty pecans, and delightful cookie bits. The dynamic interplay between the warm, sweet, and subtly smoky pineapple and the cold, multi-textured crunch of this exceptional ice cream is nothing short of magical. This isn’t just a pairing; it’s a carefully balanced combination designed to awaken and delight every single one of your taste buds.
Two artfully arranged servings of grilled pineapple with ice cream, one in sharp focus in the foreground, and another subtly blurred in the background, showcasing the dessert's delicious and inviting appeal.
A visually stunning and delicious, quick, and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any summer occasion.

Gather Your Simple Yet Essential Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its elegant simplicity; it’s so straightforward it almost feels too easy to call it “cooking.” Yet, this simplicity allows the inherent quality of your chosen ingredients to truly shine, resulting in a dessert that tastes far more complex than its components suggest. Below is a detailed look at the few items you’ll need. For precise measurements and comprehensive recipe instructions, please ensure you scroll down to the dedicated recipe card section.

  • Fresh Pineapple: The Undisputed Star: The foundation of this incredible dessert is a single, sweet, perfectly ripe, and vibrant yellow pineapple. Selecting the right pineapple is crucial; look for one that has a fragrant, sweet aroma emanating from its base and yields slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed. Its leaves should appear green and fresh, not dry or brown. The natural sugars within the pineapple are key here; grilling them will caramelize and intensify their sweetness, creating that irresistible golden-brown crust and a wonderfully tender, juicy interior. Don’t hesitate to pick a pineapple that’s slightly riper than what you might typically choose for eating fresh, as grilling will make it even more heavenly.
  • Premium Ice Cream: The Perfect Counterpoint: To flawlessly complement our warm, grilled fruit, we’re reaching for the sweet, creamy indulgence of Tillamook Ice Cream. My current, undeniable obsession, and the flavor that unequivocally elevates this recipe to unparalleled heights, is their Caramel Toffee Crunch. This isn’t just any ice cream; it’s an ultra-creamy, exceptionally rich, and luxuriously smooth delight, generously packed with luscious ribbons of soft, sweet caramel and an abundance of delightful crunchy bits of toffee, nutty pecans, and sweet cookie pieces. This exquisite combination of textures and flavors provides a phenomenal, satisfying contrast to the pineapple’s natural tang and warmth, culminating in a truly memorable and delightful dessert experience.
  • Melted Coconut Oil: Your Grilling Ally: You’ll only need a tablespoon of melted coconut oil, but its role is vital. This oil serves a dual purpose: it acts as a highly effective non-stick agent for your grill grates, ensuring the delicate pineapple slices don’t adhere, and it significantly aids in developing that stunning, desirable golden crust on the fruit. Additionally, coconut oil subtly infuses the pineapple with a complementary tropical note. If coconut oil isn’t readily available or preferred, a neutral, high-heat cooking oil such as avocado oil can be used as a suitable substitute.
  • Optional Caramel Sauce for Serving: The Drizzle of Decadence: While the Tillamook Caramel Toffee Crunch ice cream is already brimming with glorious caramel, a final, artful drizzle of extra caramel sauce can undeniably take this dessert from fantastic to absolutely sublime. Homemade caramel sauce will always offer a richer, more nuanced flavor compared to most store-bought varieties, adding a truly special touch. However, a good quality store-bought caramel sauce can certainly serve the purpose beautifully.

Navigating Your Ice Cream Choices: Finding the Perfect Pairing

While my heartfelt recommendation leans heavily towards Tillamook Caramel Toffee Crunch for its sublime qualities, the true brilliance of this dessert lies in its remarkable adaptability. You technically have the freedom to top your chargrilled pineapple with any ice cream flavor that genuinely tickles your fancy! However, it’s worth noting that opting for premium ingredients consistently makes a significant difference in the final taste experience. Tillamook, a proud farmer-owned dairy brand hailing from the picturesque state of Oregon, has been meticulously perfecting its ice cream craftsmanship since 1947, a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence, which is abundantly evident in every scoop’s exceptional creaminess and rich, authentic flavor profiles.

If you’re feeling adventurous and wish to explore beyond my top pick, here are some other Tillamook flavors that would create wonderfully harmonious pairings with the sweet, smoky grilled pineapple:

  • Classic Vanilla Bean: A timeless choice for a compelling reason! Its pure, creamy, and subtly aromatic notes provide a beautifully clean canvas, allowing the unique, caramelized flavors of the grilled pineapple to truly shine as the undisputed star.
  • Tropical Coconut Cream Pie: This flavor effortlessly enhances the natural tropical theme of the pineapple. With its rich, indulgent coconut base and delightful, subtle pieces of pie crust, it adds an extra layer of texture and exotic taste.
  • Bold Coffee Almond Fudge: For those who appreciate a richer, more robust, and slightly sophisticated contrast, this flavor offers a delightful counterpoint with its deep coffee notes, crunchy almonds, and decadent fudge swirls.
  • Quintessential Marionberry Pie: A uniquely Oregonian berry flavor that introduces a lovely tart, intensely fruity complement to the inherent sweetness of the pineapple, creating a vibrant and intriguing flavor dynamic.

And for my cherished readers in Michigan, I have some truly exciting news to share! Tillamook Ice Cream is now widely available in Michigan. This is absolutely fantastic for us, as it means convenient access to not only their renowned and spectacular cheddar cheese but now also their utterly incredible ice cream. It’s a wonderful opportunity to savor a true taste of Oregonian dairy excellence right here in our local stores!

A beautifully presented slice of grilled pineapple with ice cream in the sharp foreground, with a familiar carton of Tillamook ice cream subtly blurred in the background, creating an enticing visual narrative of sweet indulgence.
The perfect blend of warm, caramelized fruit and cold, creamy indulgence – a symphony for your senses.

Mastering the Art of Perfectly Grilled Pineapple

This sensational summertime dessert comes together in mere minutes on a hot grill, making it an ideal choice for quick gratification. The grilling process itself is remarkably straightforward, but by following a few key tips, you can guarantee perfectly caramelized, tender, and incredibly juicy pineapple slices every single time. Here’s your detailed, step-by-step guide to achieving grilled pineapple perfection:

  • Preparation is Paramount: Begin by preheating your grill to a medium-high heat. Aim for a consistent temperature of approximately 350-400°F (175-200°C). While your grill warms up, meticulously prepare your pineapple. First, using a sharp knife, carefully trim off the fibrous top and the sturdy bottom of the pineapple. Next, stand the pineapple upright on a cutting board and slice off the tough outer skin in long, downward strips, following the curve of the fruit. Once peeled, you have a couple of options: you can slice it into uniform ½ to ¾ inch thick rings (using a pineapple corer for easy core removal or simply cutting around the fibrous core), or you can cut it into more rustic spears. The next crucial step is to generously brush both sides of each pineapple slice with melted coconut oil. This isn’t just to prevent sticking; the oil plays a vital role in achieving that coveted, beautiful golden-brown caramelization and also adds a subtle, complementary tropical flavor note to the fruit.
  • Grill to Golden Perfection: Carefully place the oiled pineapple slices directly onto the preheated, clean grill grates. Grill each side for approximately 4 to 5 minutes. During this time, you should observe distinct, appealing grill marks beginning to form, along with a rich, golden-brown hue developing on the surface. The pineapple should be heated thoroughly throughout and visibly softened, with clear signs of beautiful caramelization. It’s important not to overcrowd the grill; if necessary, work in batches to ensure even cooking, optimal browning, and proper heat distribution. The sweet, tantalizing aroma filling the air will be your delicious indicator that you’re well on your way to grilled pineapple perfection!
  • Serve Immediately for Ultimate Enjoyment: Once your pineapple slices are perfectly grilled – tender, caramelized, and fragrant – promptly transfer them to individual serving plates. The key to this dessert’s magic lies in the immediate contrast: top each warm, fragrant slice with a generous scoop (or even two!) of your chosen ice cream, with Tillamook Caramel Toffee Crunch being my ultimate recommendation. For an extra touch of irresistible decadence and a boost of flavor, add a luxurious drizzle of rich caramel sauce over the top. Serve this delightful dessert without delay to fully experience and savor the incredible interplay between the warm, tender, and smoky fruit and the cold, creamy, refreshing ice cream.

Remember, the overarching goal is to achieve those aesthetically pleasing grill marks and that deliciously complex caramelized crust, all while carefully preventing the pineapple from burning. A consistent medium-high heat is ideal as it allows the natural sugars to brown slowly and evenly, creating a depth of flavor that’s truly unmatched.

A close-up shot of a hand expertly scooping creamy ice cream from a round cylinder carton, preparing to adorn the freshly grilled pineapple.
Freshly scooped ice cream is the irresistible, cooling partner for warm, caramelized grilled pineapple.

Creative & Classic Serving Suggestions for Grilled Pineapple

While the simple pairing of grilled pineapple and a scoop of ice cream is undeniably a match made in culinary heaven, the versatility of this dessert means there are countless ways to customize it, tailoring it perfectly to your specific tastes or the demands of any occasion. The warm, sweet, and subtly smoky caramelized pineapple acts as an incredibly adaptable canvas, eagerly awaiting a diverse array of toppings and pairings, thereby elevating it far beyond the realm of a mere fruit dessert.

As I’ve enthusiastically shared, the Tillamook Caramel Toffee Crunch ice cream holds a special place as my personal favorite for this dish. Its delightful medley of crunchy pecans, rich almonds, decadent chocolate bits, buttery toffee pieces, and crumbly cookies introduces a multi-faceted textural dimension that flawlessly complements the soft, juicy, and tangy pineapple. However, if your preference leans towards something more understated or classic, a good old-fashioned no-churn vanilla bean ice cream would be equally delicious, offering a creamy, pure backdrop that truly allows the intricate, caramelized flavors of the grilled pineapple to take center stage and shine brilliantly.

To genuinely enhance and deepen that delightful caramel experience, I wholeheartedly recommend finishing your creation with a generous, artful drizzle of rich, homemade caramel sauce. Crafting your own caramel sauce from scratch is surprisingly straightforward and consistently yields a far richer, more complex, and nuanced flavor profile compared to most store-bought varieties, adding an undeniably luxurious touch. For those seeking a sophisticated, grown-up twist that is guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates, I urge you to consider my unique bourbon caramel sauce. The subtle yet distinct hint of bourbon introduces a wonderful depth of character and a comforting warmth that harmonizes exquisitely with the sweet, charred notes of the caramelized pineapple. Even without additional sauce, rest assured that the Tillamook Caramel Toffee Crunch ice cream is so generously packed with caramel goodness that you are guaranteed a truly satisfying and memorable treat.

Elevate Your Dessert: An Abundance of Easy Topping Ideas

Why stop at just ice cream and a simple caramel drizzle when this incredibly versatile grilled pineapple dessert invites a world of creativity? Consider transforming your serving station into a vibrant topping bar, offering a fun and interactive experience for your guests at your next gathering. Here are some diverse ideas to ignite your imagination and help you craft a truly unforgettable dessert:

  • Creative & Unexpected Toppings:
    • Roasted Strawberries or Cherries: The delicate tartness of gently roasted berries provides a fantastic counterpoint to the sweetness of the grilled pineapple, creating a vibrant and harmonious flavor contrast that awakens the palate.
    • Crushed Potato Chips or Pretzels: For a surprisingly delightful and utterly addictive salty-sweet combination, these offer an unexpected crunch and a playful twist to the dessert.
    • A Sprinkle of Espresso Powder or Cocoa Nibs: These additions introduce a sophisticated hint of bitterness, expertly balancing the dessert’s sweetness and adding a layer of complex flavor.
    • Toasted Coconut Flakes: A simple yet effective way to amplify the tropical vibe, providing both appealing texture and an enhanced exotic flavor dimension.
    • Fresh Mint Leaves: Beyond being a beautiful garnish, a scattering of fresh mint leaves adds a wonderfully refreshing aroma and a cooling sensation that cleanses the palate.
    • Flaky Sea Salt (such as Maldon): Even a tiny pinch of high-quality flaky sea salt can dramatically enhance the inherent sweetness and complex flavors of the grilled pineapple through a delightful contrast, making everything taste more vibrant.
    • Chopped Candied Pecans or Macadamia Nuts: These provide a luxurious, buttery crunch and a rich, nutty depth of flavor that complements the pineapple beautifully.
  • Classic & Crowd-Pleasing Toppings:
    • Homemade Hot Fudge: A rich, decadent, and warm chocolatey sauce that is always a guaranteed hit. Making it yourself is simpler than you might imagine and yields superior results!
    • Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, airy, and freshly whipped cream offers a delicate counterpoint to the richness of the ice cream and the intense flavor of the fruit.
    • Chopped Nuts: Classic choices like walnuts, peanuts, or almonds add a satisfying crunch and a familiar, comforting flavor.
    • Chocolate Chips or Shavings: A simple yet highly effective way to infuse a touch of classic chocolatey goodness into your dessert.
    • Rainbow Sprinkles: Especially popular for kids or for adding a festive, celebratory touch to any party!
    • Maraschino Cherries: The quintessential bright red finishing touch, adding a pop of color and a nod to traditional sundae aesthetics.
A decadent close-up shot capturing rich, golden caramel being artfully drizzled over a generous scoop of ice cream nestled atop a warm, grilled pineapple slice.
A final, luxurious touch of caramel makes this dessert truly irresistible and picture-perfect.

Essential Tips for a Flawless Grilled Pineapple Experience

Nothing quite evokes the feeling of summer like a lively backyard ice cream social or a casual outdoor dinner, and this grilled pineapple with ice cream is an absolutely stellar addition to any such feast. Whether you’re celebrating National Ice Cream Month or simply enjoying a warm summer day, here are some invaluable tips to ensure your dessert is a rollicking success, impressing your family and guests alike:

  • Offer a Delightful Variety to Your Guests: While grilled pineapple is undoubtedly the star of the show, consider expanding your dessert bar by offering a small selection of other grilled fruits. Sweet, caramelized peaches, bananas, or even sliced mango can provide a wonderful complement, allowing guests to truly “build-their-own” sundae experience. Alongside traditional ice cream toppings, this unique grilled fruit option will truly impress and offer something for every palate. To streamline serving at a larger gathering, you could opt to dice up your perfectly grilled pineapple into smaller, bite-sized pieces and present it as a delightful, ready-to-spoon topping option for guests to customize their ice cream sundaes.
  • Strategically Combat the Heat: Keep Your Ice Cream from Melting: On a scorching summer day, ice cream can regrettably transform into a liquid puddle far too quickly. To prevent this culinary tragedy, always keep your tubs of ice cream nestled securely in insulated coolers filled with plenty of ice, or in a large bowl acting as an effective ice bath, until the very moment you are ready to serve. For smaller, more intimate gatherings, consider utilizing pre-chilled bowls or specially designed double-walled ice cream cups, which are excellent at maintaining the ice cream’s frosty temperature for an extended period. If serving outdoors, remember to position your entire ice cream station in a shaded area to minimize direct sun exposure.
  • Master the Art of Advance Ice Cream Scooping: This ingenious trick is an absolute game-changer for hosting stress-free dessert serving! Ahead of time, meticulously scoop your desired number of ice cream portions onto a baking sheet generously lined with parchment paper. Once all scoops are formed, place the entire tray back into the freezer until the scoops are solid. When it’s finally time for dessert, all you’ll need to do is quickly grill your pineapple slices to perfection. Once done, simply retrieve the pre-scooped, frozen ice cream from the freezer and effortlessly top your warm, fragrant pineapple. This brilliant method ensures a remarkably smooth, efficient, and entirely fuss-free serving process, allowing you to relax, socialize, and fully enjoy the company of your guests rather than constantly fussing over last-minute dessert preparations.
  • Selecting the Perfect Pineapple: Always opt for a ripe pineapple that exudes a sweet aroma from its base. A fruit that is slightly softer to the touch will caramelize more readily and inherently possess a richer, more concentrated flavor, enhancing the overall grilled experience.
  • The Indispensable Role of Oil: Brushing the pineapple slices with melted coconut oil serves a dual, critical purpose: it not only effectively prevents the fruit from adhering to the grill grates but is also fundamentally crucial for achieving those beautiful, distinct grill marks and that truly irresistible, deeply caramelized crust that defines this dessert.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Your Grilled Pineapple

While the unparalleled flavor and sublime texture of freshly grilled pineapple are undoubtedly at their peak right off the grill, sometimes convenience and advance preparation are key to a smooth dining experience. Here’s how you can prepare and store components of this delicious dessert to fit your schedule:

  • Refrigerator Storage: For optimal enjoyment, it is generally recommended to grill pineapple slices just before serving. However, if you find yourself needing to prepare them in advance, you can certainly do so. Grill the pineapple as directed, allow the slices to cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you have options: they are still delicious served cold (offering a different, yet pleasant, experience), or you can gently reheat them on the grill for a minute or two per side, or briefly in the microwave until warmed through. Any leftover grilled pineapple can also be wonderfully repurposed – try dicing it into refreshing fruit salads, blending it into vibrant smoothies, or even using it as an exotic garnish for tropical cocktails!
  • Freezer Storage: While it is technically possible to freeze grilled pineapple, it’s important to be aware that its texture will become noticeably softer and somewhat less firm once it’s defrosted compared to fresh or even refrigerated grilled pineapple. To freeze properly, arrange the cooled grilled pineapple slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they are completely solid. Once frozen, transfer the solid slices to an airtight, freezer-safe bag or container, using parchment paper to separate layers if stacking, to prevent them from sticking together. Grilled pineapple can be safely stored frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating or incorporating them into other recipes where a softer texture is acceptable, such as purees or baked goods.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Pineapple

  • What kind of grill is best for pineapple? Both gas and charcoal grills are fantastic choices for grilling pineapple! A gas grill offers the convenience of precise temperature control and quick heating, while a charcoal grill can impart a more distinctive, smoky flavor that many find appealing. The most important factor is ensuring your grill grates are meticulously clean and lightly oiled to prevent any sticking.
  • Can I use canned pineapple for grilling? While fresh pineapple is overwhelmingly recommended for its superior flavor, firmer texture, and natural sweetness, you can certainly use canned pineapple rings as a convenient alternative in a pinch. If opting for canned, ensure you drain them very thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels before brushing them with oil and placing them on the grill. Be mindful that canned pineapple often comes pre-sweetened and is generally softer, so watch them closely on the grill to prevent them from burning or becoming overly mushy.
  • Are there any health benefits to grilled pineapple? Absolutely! Pineapple is a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with essential nutrients like Vitamin C, manganese, and beneficial digestive enzymes, most notably bromelain. Grilling the pineapple does not diminish these inherent health benefits. In fact, the caramelization process simply concentrates its natural sugars and flavors, making an already naturally healthy fruit even more appealing and delicious as a dessert option, especially when enjoyed in moderation.
  • Can I make this dessert without an outdoor grill? Yes, you absolutely can! If you don’t have convenient access to an outdoor grill, you can achieve a wonderfully similar effect using a grill pan on your stovetop or even a hot, well-seasoned cast-iron skillet. The key is to ensure the pan is very hot and lightly oiled before you place the pineapple slices on it. Follow the same recommended grilling times for each side. While you might miss out on that distinct smoky flavor that an outdoor grill provides, you will still achieve fantastic caramelization and a delicious end result.

Explore More Easy Summer Dessert Ideas

Cinnamon Ice Cream (No Churn)

No-Bake Mini Cheesecakes

Patriotic Fruit Kabobs with Vanilla Bean Yogurt Dip

Grilled Pineapple with Ice Cream

By Rachel Gurk

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins

Servings: 6 servings

Grilled pineapple on a sleek black plate, elegantly topped with a generous scoop of ice cream and exquisitely drizzled with rich caramel sauce, capturing its delicious appeal.

Pin Recipe
Print Recipe

This grilled pineapple recipe is the perfect summer treat! Grill pineapple slices until caramelized, then top them with cool and creamy caramel toffee crunch ice cream for a delightfully sweet and smoky dessert that’s ready in minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole fresh pineapple, carefully cut into slices, each about ½ to ¾ inch thick (this typically yields approximately 6 slices, depending on the size of the pineapple)
  • 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or a neutral, high-heat oil like avocado oil)
  • 3 cups Tillamook Caramel Toffee Crunch Ice Cream (or any other premium ice cream of your personal preference)
  • Caramel sauce for serving (optional, but highly recommended for an extra layer of decadence)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to a medium heat, aiming for a consistent temperature of about 350°F (175°C). Ensure the grill grates are clean and well-maintained.
  2. Brush both sides of each prepared pineapple slice generously with the melted coconut oil. Carefully place the oiled pineapple slices directly onto the preheated grill. Grill for approximately 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until you observe beautiful, distinct grill marks, the pineapple is heated thoroughly, and it has developed a visibly caramelized, golden-brown crust.
  3. Serve immediately. Promptly transfer the warm, perfectly grilled pineapple slices to individual serving plates. Top each slice with approximately a half-cup scoop of your chosen ice cream, ideally the Tillamook Caramel Toffee Crunch. For an additional touch of gourmet indulgence, add a delightful drizzle of your favorite caramel sauce. Enjoy the harmonious blend of warm and cold, sweet and smoky flavors right away!

Notes

  • Pro Tip for Hosting Parties: To significantly streamline the dessert serving process, scoop your desired portions of ice cream onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in advance, then freeze until solid. When dessert time arrives, simply grill the pineapple, grab the pre-scooped ice cream from the freezer, and effortlessly assemble. This strategy dramatically reduces last-minute stress and allows you more time to enjoy your guests.
  • Please note that the nutrition information provided is an automatically calculated approximation and does not include any optional caramel sauce you might add. Actual nutritional values will vary based on the specific brands and varieties of ingredients, especially ice cream, that you choose to use.
  • For an truly elevated and personalized experience, consider crafting your own homemade caramel sauce. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous and wish to impart a sophisticated depth of flavor, my unique bourbon caramel sauce is an exquisite choice that complements the pineapple beautifully.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Calories: 231 kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 29mg
Sodium: 54mg
Potassium: 296mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 29g
Vitamin A: 365 IU
Vitamin C: 72mg
Calcium: 104mg
Iron: 0.5mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be utilized as an approximation only. Individual results may vary significantly based on ingredient brands, precise measurements, and preparation methods.

Did You Make This Delicious Recipe? We would absolutely love to hear from you! Please share your experience and rating below. Your valuable feedback not only helps us but also inspires other home cooks!

This comprehensive content and recipe is a result of a valued and transparent partnership with Tillamook, a brand we genuinely admire for their unwavering commitment to producing high-quality dairy products. While I received compensation for my time and creative effort in developing and sharing this piece, every opinion, recommendation, and culinary insight shared here is entirely my own, genuinely reflecting my authentic experience and personal preferences. We extend our sincere gratitude for supporting Rachel Cooks by engaging with brands we use and wholeheartedly endorse in our own home. Such sponsored collaborations are incredibly vital in helping us cover the operational expenses involved with maintaining this site and continuing to provide you with rich, high-quality content and free, delicious recipes to enjoy!