Craving something sweet, fresh, and irresistibly juicy? This Grilled Pineapple recipe is your new go-to dessert! The natural sugars caramelize beautifully on the grill, creating a smoky-sweet flavor that elevates any summer gathering—or even a cozy winter treat. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream, and you’ll want every last bite!
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Pineapple
- Intense Flavor: Grilling amplifies the pineapple’s natural sweetness while adding a subtle smoky note.
- Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and just minutes on the grill make this a fast, restaurant-quality dessert at home.
- Versatile: Enjoy on its own, alongside grilled meats, chopped into salads or salsas, or even on pizza.
- Beautiful Presentation: Perfect golden grill marks and caramelized edges make it a showstopper on any plate.
Ingredients
Makes 6 servings
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dark rum (optional, adds tropical flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Prep the Pineapple
- Slice off the top and bottom, then remove the rind.
- Cut the fruit into 3/4–1-inch rings or spears.
- If using rings, remove the core with a small cutter.
- Place the pineapple pieces in a large zip-top bag or bowl.
2. Make the Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, dark brown sugar, rum (optional), cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Pour the mixture over the pineapple and toss gently to coat.
- Chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. Grill the Pineapple
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat (375–400°F / 190–205°C).
- Grill pineapple for 4–6 minutes per side, brushing occasionally with the leftover marinade.
- Grill just until caramelized with nice grill marks—avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy immediately.
- Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Pineapple
- Cut Properly: Make sure to remove the rind and “eyes” for a clean, tender bite.
- Marinate First: Even a 20–30 minute soak infuses the fruit with incredible flavor.
- Preheat Grill: Clean, oiled grates prevent sticking and ensure perfect char marks.
- Baste While Grilling: Brushing with the marinade keeps the pineapple moist and caramelized.
- Variations: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, drizzle with honey, or add a touch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Storage & Reheating
- Store: Refrigerate cooled pineapple in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with butter, in the microwave at low power, or air fryer for 3–4 minutes.
Serving Ideas
- With a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream 🍨
- Chopped into salsas or tropical salads 🥗
- As a side for grilled meats or pork 🥩
- On grilled pound cake or desserts for a gourmet touch 🍰
Why This Recipe Works
Grilling pineapple intensifies its natural sweetness while keeping it juicy and tender. The light caramelization adds depth, and the cinnamon-rum glaze takes it to the next level. It’s a versatile dessert that’s just as perfect for summer BBQs as it is for cozy indoor indulgences.
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