Vegan Grilled Pineapple "Nice Cream" Sundaes

vegan, whole food plant-based, easy, healthy, oil-free

Vegan Grilled Pineapple "Nice Cream" Sundaes

A good sundae is all about contrasts. In this case, warm caramelized pineapple, straight off the grill, forms a smoldering base for icy cold, creamy banana "nice" cream. Fruit brings all the sweetness to this party, so there's no need for added sugar. Fresh, whole ingredients are the not-so-secret to success. It’s simple but bold, refreshing but rich, and the kind of dessert that feels indulgent without weighing you down. Perfect for summer nights when you want something satisfying, but still light and clean.

Prep Time20

Cook Time8

Total Time28

Servings: servings

Calories: 260kcal

Author: Hannah Kaminsky

Ingredients

Banana "Nice" Cream

3 ripe bananas peeled, sliced, and frozen
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Grilled Pineapple

1 fresh pineapple peeled, cored, and sliced into rings
Ground cinnamon or ground ginger for dusting

Optional Toppings

date syrup
toasted coconut flakes
chopped toasted nuts
cacao nibs or vegan chocolate chips
fresh berries

Instructions

First, make the banana "nice" cream by placing the frozen banana slices in a food processor with the "s" blade attachment. Pulse a few times to begin breaking down the bananas, then blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the container with your spatula as needed. Add the vanilla and blend to combine.
Transfer to a container and freeze for 10 – 25 minutes, until firm enough to scoop but not solid. If prepared too far in advance, it will become as hard as a block of ice. You can always re-blend the banana ice cream in case that happens.
To grill the pineapple, preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the pineapple slices directly on the grill. Cook for 2 – 3 minutes per side, or until deeply caramelized with distinct grill marks.
Remove from the grill and lightly sprinkle with cinnamon or ginger.
When you're ready to assemble your sundaes, start with one or two rings of grilled pineapple in a shallow bowl per person. Top with a scoop or two of banana “nice” cream, then finish with as many toppings as your heart desires. Dig in right away, while the pineapple is still warm and the ice cream is still frosty!

Notes

Serving suggestion: For a tropical twist, try adding mango chunks or a swirl of passionfruit pulp to enhance the fruity flavor of your banana “nice” cream. Alternately, to spice things up, blend the banana with a pinch of cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger for a chai-like vibe.

Switch up the presentation by layering grilled pineapple chunks, banana “nice” cream, and your favorite toppings in a jar or glass to create a refreshing frozen parfait-style dessert.

Notes: If you don’t have a grill or grill pan handy, sauté the pineapple in a cast-iron skillet, or broil in the oven for similar results.

For a smoother banana “nice” cream, blend in a splash of unsweetened non-dairy milk if needed.

Nutrition