Grilled Pineapple

Name: Grilled Pineapple
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 fresh pineapple; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1/4 cup dark brown sugar; 1/4 cup dark rum (optional); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Published: November 2, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Deliciously Sweet: The grilling process enhances the natural sugars in the pineapple, creating a rich and caramelized flavor.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy grilled pineapple on its own, as a dessert topping, or even in savory dishes like tacos and salads.
Healthy Dessert Alternative: This dessert is low in calories compared to traditional sweets, allowing you to indulge guilt-free!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, grilled pineapple fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your grilled pineapple effortlessly, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill or grill pan
Sharp knife
Large zip-top bag
Small mixing bowl
Whisk or fork

Importance of Each Tool

Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving those beautiful char marks and caramelization on the pineapple.
Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes cutting through the tough rind of the pineapple easier and safer.
Large zip-top bag: Perfect for marinating the pineapple without making a mess in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful grilled pineapple:

For the Grilled Pineapple

1 fresh pineapple
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup dark rum, optional
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch salt

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Pineapple

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple

Use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple and remove the rind. Cut into 3/4-1-inch spears or rings. If using rings, use a small cutter to remove the core. Place the cut pineapple into a large zip-top bag and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, dark brown sugar, dark rum (if using), ground cinnamon, and pinch of salt until well combined. Pour this mixture into the bag with your pineapple. Gently toss to coat all pieces evenly. Seal the bag and place it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to marinate.

Step 3: Heat Up Your Grill

Warm your grill or grill pan over medium heat until it reaches a temperature between 375-400°F.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple

Place the marinated fruit on the grill. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, brushing each side with any excess marinade as it cooks. This will enhance flavor and help achieve that nice caramelization.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, transfer the grilled pineapple to a platter. Serve immediately while warm for best taste! Enjoy this delightful dish on its own or with a scoop of your favorite ice cream!

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is a delightful treat that can elevate any dessert table. Its sweet and smoky flavor pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

With Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing that enhances the sweetness of grilled pineapple.
Coconut Ice Cream: Adds an extra tropical flair to your dessert experience.
Rum Raisin Ice Cream: Complement the dark rum in the pineapple marinade for a cohesive flavor.

As a Topping

Pancakes: Use grilled pineapple as a topping for fluffy pancakes, creating a tropical breakfast.
Cheesecake: Add slices of grilled pineapple on top of cheesecake for a refreshing twist.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer with yogurt and granola for a healthy, flavorful snack.

In Salads

Mixed Green Salad: Toss grilled pineapple with mixed greens, nuts, and vinaigrette for a vibrant salad.
Quinoa Salad: Combine with quinoa, black beans, and avocado for a filling meal.

How to Perfect Grilled Pineapple

To achieve the best results when making grilled pineapple, consider these helpful tips to enhance flavor and texture.

Choose ripe pineapples: Look for pineapples that are slightly soft to the touch with sweet aroma. This ensures maximum sweetness after grilling.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butter and spices will elevate the flavors compared to their processed counterparts.
Pre-marinate: Allowing the pineapple to soak in the marinade for 20-30 minutes enhances its flavor and makes it juicier.
Control grill temperature: Ensure your grill is at medium heat (375-400°F) for perfect caramelization without burning.
Baste while cooking: Brush the pineapple with leftover marinade during grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.
Serve immediately: Grilled pineapple is best enjoyed fresh off the grill when it’s warm and juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pineapple

Serving grilled pineapple alongside complementary side dishes can create an impressive meal. Here are some great options to pair with your dessert.

Coconut Rice: A creamy coconut-flavored rice that balances the sweetness of grilled pineapple beautifully.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers marinated in tropical spices make for a savory contrast to the sweet fruit.
Black Bean Salsa: A zesty salsa made with black beans, corn, and lime that adds freshness to your plate.
Mango Salad: A refreshing mango salad with lime dressing enhances tropical flavors perfectly.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can complement grilled pineapple’s sweetness while adding color.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and herbs offers a delightful contrast in textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

Boldly Choosing Unripe Pineapple: Always select fresh, ripe pineapples for the best flavor. An unripe pineapple will taste sour and won’t caramelize well on the grill.
Boldly Ignoring Marinade Time: Skipping the marinating time can lead to bland grilled pineapple. Allow at least 20-30 minutes for the flavors to soak into the fruit.
Boldly Using High Heat: Grilling at too high a temperature can burn the outside before the inside cooks. Keep your grill medium heat (375-400°F) for even cooking.
Boldly Overcooking: Cooking pineapple too long can turn it mushy. Aim for 4-6 minutes per side, just until you see nice grill marks and it softens slightly.
Boldly Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Not adjusting the sweetness or spices according to your taste can lead to a dish that doesn’t satisfy your cravings. Feel free to add more sugar or cinnamon based on your preference.

Refrigerator Storage

Store grilled pineapple in an airtight container.
It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Ensure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Grilled Pineapple

Use a freezer-safe bag or container for storage.
Grilled pineapple can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Grilled Pineapple

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the pineapple on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, reheat slices for about 2-3 minutes per side, brushing with leftover marinade if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my grilled pineapple is done?

Look for golden brown grill marks and slight softness when you press it with a fork. The edges should caramelize nicely without becoming mushy.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh pineapple is preferred as it offers better texture and flavor compared to canned varieties, which may be overly sweet or mushy.

What are some variations of grilled pineapple I can try?

You can experiment by adding different spices like nutmeg or ginger, or even using flavored rum in your marinade for added depth.

What should I serve with grilled pineapple?

Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or served alongside meats like pork or chicken for a tropical twist.

Final Thoughts

This grilled pineapple recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a dessert, side dish, or topping on savory meals. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite spices or serving options. Dive into this refreshing treat that will surely impress your family and friends!

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