Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & quick: With minimal ingredients and a fast cook time, this grilled pineapple recipe is a breeze to prepare.
• Naturally sweet: The heat from the grill intensifies the pineapple’s sweetness, making it a delightful treat.
• Perfect balance of flavors: The brown sugar and cinnamon add a touch of warmth and spice that complements the fruit’s natural tanginess.
• Versatile: Serve as a side dish, dessert, or atop ice cream, yogurt, or salads.

Ingredients

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

• ½ pineapple, cut into spears
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

1. Prepare the pineapple: Peel and core the pineapple, then cut it into spears (about 1-inch wide).
2. Make the coating: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Coat the pineapple: Rub the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture onto the pineapple spears, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. Grill the pineapple: Place the pineapple spears on the grill, cut side down. Grill for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple softens slightly.
6. Serve: Remove the pineapple from the grill and serve immediately, either as a side or a dessert.

Servings and timing

• Yields: Approximately 2-3 servings.
• Prep: 5 minutes
• Grill: 8–12 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the brown sugar-cinnamon mix for a subtle heat.
• Coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the pineapple before grilling for a tropical flair.
• Honey drizzle: Drizzle honey over the grilled pineapple after cooking for extra sweetness.
• Lime zest: Add some fresh lime zest for a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple.

Storage/reheating

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze grilled pineapple, but the texture may change slightly after thawing.
• To reheat: To reheat, place the pineapple in a warm pan for a few minutes or quickly warm it on the grill for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pineapple for grilling?

It’s best to use fresh pineapple for grilling as it has more texture and flavor. Canned pineapple may become too soft and watery when grilled.

2. Can I make this recipe without brown sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness, though it will affect the caramelization.

3. Can I grill pineapple on a stovetop grill pan?

Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan to cook the pineapple on medium-high heat.

4. Can I use other spices instead of cinnamon?

Yes, you can try nutmeg, cardamom, or even ginger for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I know when the pineapple is done?

The pineapple is ready when it has nice grill marks, is slightly softened, and has a caramelized look. It should be tender but still hold its shape.

6. Can I prepare the pineapple in advance?

You can cut and coat the pineapple spears in advance, but it’s best to grill them just before serving for the freshest taste.

7. How can I make this dish more tropical?

Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a drizzle of coconut milk for a richer, more tropical flavor.

8. Can I grill pineapple without the sugar and cinnamon?

Yes, you can grill the pineapple plain, though the sugar and cinnamon add a delicious sweetness and spice that complements the natural fruit flavor.

9. How should I serve grilled pineapple?

Grilled pineapple can be served as a side, dessert, or as a topping for things like ice cream, yogurt, or fruit salads.

10. Can I add other fruits to the grill?

Absolutely! Grilled peaches, mangoes, or even bananas would complement grilled pineapple beautifully.

Conclusion

Grilled pineapple is a simple yet delicious treat that adds a sweet, smoky element to any meal. With the perfect balance of cinnamon and brown sugar, this recipe transforms fresh pineapple into a mouthwatering dish that can be served in countless ways. Whether as a side at a barbecue, a dessert with ice cream, or a tropical salad topper, grilled pineapple is a versatile and irresistible choice.

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