Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Requires only a few basic ingredients.
Quick Preparation: Minimal prep and cook time.
Versatile: Can be served as a side dish, dessert, or even as a topping for meats.
Enhanced Flavor: Grilling caramelizes the natural sugars, adding depth to the pineapple’s sweetness.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh pineapple
Brown sugar
Unsalted butter
Ground cinnamon
Honey
Lime juice
Optional: Hot sauce, sea salt

Directions

Prepare the Pineapple: Peel, core, and cut the pineapple into rings or spears.
Make the Glaze: In a bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, honey, and lime juice. For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce.
Marinate: Place the pineapple pieces in the glaze, ensuring they’re well-coated. Let them sit for about 15-30 minutes.
Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the Pineapple: Place the pineapple on the grill and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is heated through.
Serve: Remove from the grill and, if desired, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 6 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes.
Cook Time: 6-10 minutes.
Total Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.

Variations

Spicy Grilled Pineapple: Add a sprinkle of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy twist.
Coconut Flavor: Substitute melted coconut oil for butter and add a sprinkle of shredded coconut before serving.
Alcohol-Infused: Soak pineapple slices in rum before grilling for an adult version.
Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh mint or basil to the glaze for a fresh herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Place cooled grilled pineapple in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Consume within 1-2 months for best quality.
Reheating: To reheat, allow frozen grilled pineapple to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can enjoy it at room temperature or briefly reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds if a warm treat is preferred. Avoid overcooking to retain its juicy texture.

FAQs

How do I choose a ripe pineapple for grilling?

Look for a pineapple with a sweet aroma at the base, a firm shell with slight give, and vibrant green leaves.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh pineapple offers better texture and flavor. If using canned, ensure the slices are well-drained.

Do I need to oil the grill grates?

Yes, lightly oiling the grates helps prevent the pineapple from sticking.

Can I grill pineapple on a stovetop grill pan?

Absolutely! A stovetop grill pan works well; just ensure it’s properly preheated.

What main dishes pair well with grilled pineapple?

Grilled pineapple complements grilled meats like chicken, pork, and steak, adding a sweet contrast.

Is it necessary to marinate the pineapple before grilling?

Marinating enhances flavor but isn’t mandatory. Even a short 15-minute marination can infuse the pineapple with added taste.

Can I add other spices to the glaze?

Certainly! Spices like nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom can add unique flavors.

How can I prevent the pineapple from becoming too mushy on the grill?

Avoid overcooking. Grill just until heated through and grill marks appear.

Can grilled pineapple be served cold?

Yes, chilled grilled pineapple can be a refreshing treat, especially in salads or desserts.

What desserts can I make with grilled pineapple?

Serve it with ice cream, over pound cake, or incorporate into a tropical parfait.

Conclusion

Grilled pineapple is a versatile and delectable dish that brings a touch of tropical sweetness to any meal. Its simplicity, combined with the rich flavors developed through grilling, makes it a favorite for both casual barbecues and elegant dinners. Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with savory dishes, or incorporated into desserts, grilled pineapple is sure to delight your taste buds.

Grilled Pineapple

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This easy and delicious Grilled Pineapple recipe is the perfect summer side dish or dessert! Juicy, caramelized slices with a hint of spice and sweetness—ready in minutes and bursting with tropical flavor.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 6min
Total Time: 16min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 whole fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings or spears

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil

Pinch of salt

Optional: fresh lime juice or mint for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, melted butter (or oil), and honey (if using).
Brush the pineapple slices with the mixture on all sides.
Place pineapple on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple caramelizes slightly.
Remove from heat and serve warm. Garnish with lime juice or fresh mint if desired.

Notes

This grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, over vanilla ice cream, or chopped into tropical salsa.
For a spicier version, sprinkle with a little chili powder before grilling.
Works well on indoor grill pans too.