Around the Campfire
Griddled pineapple is a low-effort camp dessert that feels bright after a heavy dinner. It also works as a topping for pancakes, French toast, or yogurt the next morning.
Why This Recipe Works
Pineapple browns well on the Blackstone because its natural sugars caramelize against the hot surface. Gentle heat keeps the sugar from burning.
Quick Facts
- Serves: 4
- Heat zone: Low to medium-low
- Best for: Quick desserts, summer trips, pancake toppings
- Teaches: Gentle fruit caramelizing
Shopping List
- Pineapple
- Brown sugar
- Butter
- Cinnamon
Home Prep
Slice pineapple at home if using it early in the trip. Pack brown sugar and cinnamon together.
Cooler Packing
Keep cut pineapple cold in a sealed container. Keep butter cold.
Equipment
- Blackstone griddle
- Spatula
- Tongs
Heat Zones
Use low to medium-low heat so the natural sugars caramelize without scorching.
Ingredients
- 1 medium fresh pineapple (about 8 rings or 12 spears), peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch rings or spears
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the griddle on low to medium-low.
- Add 2 tablespoons butter lightly to the surface and let melt.
- Arrange the pineapple rings or spears in a single layer on the griddle.
- Cook pineapple for 3-4 minutes per side, or until warm and lightly browned.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon evenly over the pineapple.
- Turn the pineapple and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes per side, just until the sugar caramelizes.
- Serve warm.
Doneness
Pineapple should be warm, lightly browned, and juicy.
Common Mistakes
- Cooking too hot.
- Adding sugar before the pineapple warms.
- Walking away once sugar hits the griddle.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as dessert, over pancakes, or with whipped topping.
Variations
- Add lime.
- Add coconut flakes.
- Serve over ice cream if available.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-free: As written.
- Dairy-free: Use oil or dairy-free butter.
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter.
Scaling
Cook in batches and hold finished pineapple on a cooler zone.
Weather Notes
Wind is manageable, but keep the heat gentle.
Leftovers
Use leftovers on breakfast pancakes, oatmeal, or yogurt.
Kid Helper Tasks
Kids can sprinkle cinnamon sugar after cooking.
Dragonfly Tip
Let the pineapple brown before adding sugar. The fruit should do some of the work first.
Dragonfly Challenge
Try one batch with cinnamon and one with lime. Pick the better camp dessert.