If you’re ready to let the sunshine into your kitchen, this Grilled Pineapple recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine plump, golden slices of fresh pineapple, kissed by fire until their natural sweetness deepens and caramelizes, all finished with a spiced buttery glaze that makes each bite absolutely irresistible. Whether you serve it as a dessert, a side for your barbecue spread, or as a tropical twist for breakfast, you’ll love the way this dish elevates any meal with its bold flavor and summery spirit. Grilled Pineapple isn’t just delicious—it’s the quickest ticket to a vacation vibe, no passport required!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it simple, letting the pineapple shine while a handful of pantry staples work magic on flavor and aroma. Each ingredient plays its role, balancing sweetness and spice, for that perfectly charred, sticky-sweet finish.
- Pineapple: Use a ripe, fresh pineapple for juicy texture and vibrant flavor—rings or spears work equally well, just be sure they’re thick enough to hold up on the grill.
- Brown Sugar: Adds deep caramel notes that melt and mingle with the pineapple’s natural juices for rich, sticky goodness.
- Honey: Brings floral sweetness and helps create that lacquered, glossy glaze you’ll crave spoonfuls of.
- Ground Cinnamon: A sprinkle of spice adds warmth and complexity, making every bite taste like a treat.
- Melted Butter or Coconut Oil: Coats each pineapple piece to encourage gorgeous grill marks and a buttery finish; use coconut oil for a vegan, extra tropical twist.
- Pinch of Salt: Just a touch wakes up all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
How to Make Grilled Pineapple
Step 1: Mix the Magic Glaze
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, ground cinnamon, melted butter (or coconut oil), and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and glossy, making sure there are no lumps. This brush-on glaze is your secret weapon for that signature caramelized finish and aromatic punch—don’t skimp!
Step 2: Prep the Pineapple
Lay out your pineapple rings or spears on a tray. Using a pastry brush, coat both sides generously with the glaze you just made. Get every nook and cranny! This step sets up the fruit to create those gorgeous, sticky grill marks and helps all those warm spices hug every bite.
Step 3: Heat Up the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for those golden lines and a quick sear that won’t dry out your fruit. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking—nobody wants to lose a luscious slice of Grilled Pineapple to the flames!
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
With your grill hot and ready, gently lay the glazed pineapple pieces on the grates. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just long enough for unmistakable char marks to form and the sugars to start bubbling and caramelizing. Keep a close eye—things can go from golden to burnt quickly—so rotate as needed for even coloring.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Grilled Pineapple is marked with smoky stripes and smells downright irresistible, use tongs to transfer it to a plate. Serve immediately while warm and glistening, letting the aromas drift and tease until you can’t wait another second to dig in.
How to Serve Grilled Pineapple
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh lime zest, a few mint leaves, or a dusting of toasted coconut can take your Grilled Pineapple from simple to stunner. For dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over warm fruit is pure bliss, and a drizzle of extra honey or a splash of dark rum makes it feel truly festive.
Side Dishes
Grilled Pineapple pairs beautifully with summertime classics: think alongside smoky barbecue chicken, grilled shrimp skewers, or vibrant rice salads. The tangy-sweet bite cuts through savory flavors and adds a tropical note to any plate, making it a welcome guest at any backyard cookout.
Creative Ways to Present
Try chopping grilled pineapple rings into chunky salsa with red onion and cilantro to spoon over tacos or burgers, or layer spears over yogurt for a breakfast parfait that feels vacation-worthy. Skewer cubes for fruit kabobs, or top with whipped coconut cream for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Grilled Pineapple, stash slices in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy tropical flavors all week long—cold or gently rewarmed.
Freezing
For longer storage, lay the cooled pineapple in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Grilled Pineapple freezes surprisingly well and can be thawed overnight in the fridge, perfect for last-minute desserts or smoothies.
Reheating
Warm leftover pineapple on a grill pan or skillet over medium heat, just until heated through; you could also use the microwave for a quicker option, though the caramelized edges are best preserved with dry heat.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Fresh pineapple is best for grilling because it holds its shape and showcases that signature sweet-tart flavor. While you can grill canned slices in a pinch, they’ll be softer and much sweeter, so watch carefully to avoid burning.
What’s the best way to cut pineapple for grilling?
Cut into thick rings or sturdy spears, around half an inch thick, so they’re easy to handle and won’t fall apart on the grill. Removing the core is optional—some love its extra crunch!
Is this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap the honey for agave syrup and use coconut oil instead of butter, and your Grilled Pineapple will be totally plant-based—without sacrificing any flavor or that dreamy, glossy finish.
Can I make this on an indoor grill or grill pan?
Definitely. An indoor electric grill or a ridged grill pan on the stove works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to heat it up well and brush with oil to get those signature grill marks and prevent sticking.
How can I add a twist to the flavor?
Try stirring some freshly grated ginger, a splash of dark rum, or a squeeze of lime juice into your glaze. These extras complement the pineapple’s natural sweetness, giving your Grilled Pineapple a signature, personal touch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the way fire transforms pineapple, and I can’t wait for you to experience it! Grilled Pineapple is the kind of dish that feels both effortless and impressive, adding a burst of sunshine to every bite. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with how easy and versatile this tropical treat is!
Print
Grilled Pineapple Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Tropical
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
Enjoy the tropical flavors of summer with this simple and delicious grilled pineapple recipe. Perfect as a side dish or dessert, this caramelized pineapple is a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ gathering.
Ingredients
Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple (peeled, cored, and cut into rings or spears)
Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, melted butter or coconut oil, and a pinch of salt.
- Coat Pineapple: Brush the glaze over both sides of the pineapple pieces.
- Preheat and Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, oil the grates, and grill the pineapple for 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and serve warm.
Notes
- Grilled pineapple pairs well with ice cream, yogurt, or as a topping for burgers and tacos.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of rum or lime juice to the glaze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 slices
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
