Grilled Pineapple Recipe
If you’re craving a taste of the tropics without leaving your backyard, this Grilled Pineapple Recipe is absolutely the answer! Juicy, golden pineapple meets a luscious glaze of brown sugar, honey, and spice, creating an irresistible combination of smoky, caramelized flavor and natural sweetness. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at your next barbecue, pairing it with ice cream for a quick dessert, or sneaking a wedge straight from the grill, this is one summer treat everyone will remember.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Grilled Pineapple Recipe lies in the balance of just a handful of staple ingredients. Each one adds a specific pop of flavor, texture, or color, working together to create pure grilled perfection.
- Fresh pineapple: Choose one that smells sweet at the base and gives slightly when pressed for maximum juiciness.
- Brown sugar: Packing a mellow, molasses-y sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- Honey or maple syrup: Either adds another layer of sticky sweetness and helps get those glossy, picture-perfect grill marks.
- Melted butter or coconut oil: Brings just the right amount of richness and helps keep those pineapple rings from sticking to the grill grates.
- Ground cinnamon: A warm hint of spice that complements the natural tang of the pineapple.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances out the sweetness without overpowering.
How to Make Grilled Pineapple Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Pineapple
Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your fresh pineapple into rings or spears. Aim for slices about half an inch thick so they can stand up to the grill without breaking apart. If slicing pineapple feels intimidating, remember that a sharp knife and a steady hand are your best friends. Lay your slices out on a tray for easy glazing.
Step 2: Mix the Sweet & Spicy Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), melted butter (or coconut oil), ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. The result is a shiny, fragrant glaze that’s almost tempting enough to eat as is! This mixture is what transforms the pineapple into sticky-sweet, golden bites once it hits the heat.
Step 3: Brush the Pineapple
Generously brush both sides of the pineapple slices with the glaze. Don’t skimp! The more you coat the slices, the more caramelized goodness you’ll lock in during grilling. The brown sugar will start to dissolve into the fruit instantly, so be sure every piece is evenly covered and glistening.
Step 4: Preheat and Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high. Arrange the pineapple slices directly onto the grates. Grill for about 3–4 minutes per side, keeping an eye out for those beautiful dark grill marks and a little caramel bubbling on the edges. The pineapple should soften slightly and turn golden, but still hold its shape.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Once your pineapple is perfectly caramelized, carefully remove the slices from the grill. Serve them warm while that sugary glaze is sticky and melty, and watch as everyone’s faces light up after the very first bite!
How to Serve Grilled Pineapple Recipe
Garnishes
Dress up your Grilled Pineapple Recipe with a sprinkle of flake salt, a dusting of toasted coconut, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice right as it comes off the grill. A handful of chopped mint adds a burst of fresh color and pairs beautifully with the warm sweetness.
Side Dishes
This pineapple makes a perfect sweet counterpoint to smoky grilled meats, veggie kebabs, and fresh summer salads. For a plant-based feast, pile the pineapple atop black bean tacos or a vibrant coconut rice bowl. Or keep it classic and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a retro-style dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Grilled Pineapple Recipe into showstopping kabobs by threading the rings onto skewers with strawberries, kiwi, or marshmallows. For parties, chop the grilled fruit into chunks and toss with a bit of lime zest for a bright salsa to serve with tortilla chips or BBQ chicken. The sky’s the limit!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Grilled Pineapple Recipe, simply pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The texture holds up surprisingly well, and the flavors deepen as the fruit chills.
Freezing
For longer storage, arrange cooled grilled pineapple pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to two months. Thawed grilled pineapple tastes fantastic chopped into morning oatmeal or yogurt bowls!
Reheating
When you’re ready to revive your pineapple, warm slices gently on a hot grill or skillet for a minute or two on each side. You can also microwave briefly, but reheating on dry heat helps recapture that caramelized edge and slightly smoky note.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
While fresh pineapple is ideal for this Grilled Pineapple Recipe, you can use well-drained canned rings in a pinch. Just dry them thoroughly before glazing and grilling, as the extra moisture can prevent caramelization.
Do I need to oil the grill?
Brushing the pineapple generously with melted butter or coconut oil usually prevents sticking, but if you’re worried, you can rub the grill grates lightly with oil before cooking. Just take care to do this with a heat-safe brush and before turning on the heat.
Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup instead of honey. The result is a completely plant-based Grilled Pineapple Recipe with all the same flavor and flair.
How do I choose a ripe pineapple?
Look for a pineapple with a golden hue at the base, a sweet fragrance, and green, vibrant leaves. It should give just slightly when gently squeezed. This ensures maximum sweetness and juiciness when grilled.
What else can I use the grilled pineapple for?
Get creative! Toss leftovers into salsa, salads, or serve as a burger topping. Chopped grilled pineapple adds a sweet touch to grain bowls or tacos, and it’s fantastic stirred into yogurt or spooned over pancakes for breakfast.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Grilled Pineapple Recipe, it’s bound to become your go-to for summer parties and weeknight grill sessions alike. Each juicy, caramelized bite is a little taste of paradise. So, grab a ripe pineapple and fire up the grill—you’ll be amazed at how such a simple idea can absolutely steal the show!
Print
Grilled Pineapple Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
This Grilled Pineapple Recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and smoky flavors. The caramelized pineapple is enhanced with a touch of brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon, making it a versatile dish that can be served as a side, a dessert, or even added to salads. Easy to make and bursting with tropical goodness!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or spears
Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high.
- Prepare the Glaze: Mix brown sugar, honey/maple syrup, melted butter/coconut oil, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
- Coat the Pineapple: Brush the glaze on both sides of the pineapple.
- Grill the Pineapple: Grill for 3–4 minutes per side until caramelized.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Great as a side, dessert, or topping.
- Leftovers are perfect for salsas or salads.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 slices
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
