Grilled Pineapple

The irresistible aroma of caramelized sweetness fills the air as you grill juicy chunks of fresh pineapple, transforming a simple fruit into a decadent treat. In just under an hour, you can create these delightful grilled pineapple slices, which boast a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, making them an ideal addition to any summer cookout or dessert spread.

This recipe is perfect for those who crave a quick, refreshing dessert or side dish, and it’s excellent for summer gatherings. You can prepare the pineapple a few hours in advance, storing it in the marinade until you’re ready to grill.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The grilling process enhances the pineapple’s natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor.
• Quick preparation and cooking time make this recipe a great last-minute addition to your meal.
• The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a delightful caramelized crust.
• Optional dark rum adds a depth of flavor for those looking to indulge.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious grilled pineapple:

For the Pineapple

• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cored
• Pinch salt

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup dark rum, optional
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Fresh pineapple is best for grilling; canned won’t yield the same results.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
• Swap dark brown sugar for light brown sugar if preferred.
• Omit rum for a non-alcoholic option.
• Substitute cinnamon with nutmeg for a different flavor profile.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to grill your pineapple perfectly.

Cut the pineapple

Use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple, then slice off the rind. Cut into 3/4-1-inch spears or rings and remove the core from the rings. Place the pineapple pieces into a large zip-top bag and set aside.

Prepare the marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, dark rum (if using), cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Add the mixture to the bag with the pineapple, gently tossing to coat the fruit evenly.

Marinate the pineapple

Place the bag in the fridge and let it marinate for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the pineapple.

Grill the pineapple

Warm the grill or a grill pan over medium heat to 375-400°F. Place the marinated pineapple on the grill, cooking for 4-6 minutes per side. Brush each side with the excess marinade as it cooks for added flavor.

Serve it up

Transfer the grilled pineapple to a serving platter. Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical delight!

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, as grilled pineapple loses texture.
Reheat: grill or pan-sear for 2-3 minutes until warm.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to use a ripe pineapple for optimal sweetness.
• Keep a close eye on the grill to prevent burning, as sugars can quickly caramelize.
• Use a grill basket for rings to prevent them from falling through the grates.
• Experiment with different spices like allspice or ginger for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Serve alongside grilled meats for a refreshing side dish.
• Top with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added texture.