Jump to Recipe Print RecipeStanding by the grill, a tantalizing aroma wafts through the air, beckoning those nearby. I find myself often reminiscing about warm summer evenings when the sizzle of juicy fruit filled our backyard with excitement. This 5-Ingredient Grilled Pineapple Recipe is my go-to for those lazy afternoons or impromptu gatherings. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also brings a burst of tropical flavor that can elevate any meal—from barbecues to casual family dinners. With its subtle caramelization and delightful sweetness, this dessert becomes an irresistible treat everyone will love. Whether you choose to indulge in the optional hint of rum or keep it simple, your taste buds are in for a real delight. Curious to see how easy it is to create this stunning dish? Let’s fire up that grill and dive in! Why is Grilled Pineapple a Must-Try? Simplicity at Its Best: With only five ingredients, this recipe is incredibly easy to whip up—even for novice cooks. Tropical Flavor: The sweet and smoky profile of grilled pineapple transports you straight to a beach paradise, making it perfect for summer gatherings. Versatility: Enjoy it solo as a dessert, or pair it with savory dishes, like grilled meats or ice cream—it complements any meal! Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option when time is of the essence. Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your guests with a unique, delicious treat that everyone will be talking about long after the gathering. For another flavor-packed recipe, check out this delightful Korean Ramen Grilled dish that brings a fun twist to dinner! Grilled Pineapple Recipe Ingredients • Give your taste buds a tropical adventure with these simple ingredients! For the Marinade Fresh Pineapple – Use ripe pineapples for the best sweetness and texture. Butter (1/4 cup, melted) – Adds richness and helps caramelize the sugars beautifully. Dark Brown Sugar (1/4 cup) – Deepens the flavor and enhances sweetness; light brown sugar works, too! Dark Rum (1/4 cup, optional) – Provides depth and enhances caramelization; opt for pineapple juice for a non-alcoholic treat. Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – Infuses warmth and spice; consider ginger for a fragrant alternative. Pinch of Salt – Elevates the overall flavor profile of this delicious grilled pineapple recipe. Embrace the tropical essence of summer with this simple, mouthwatering dessert that is sure to impress! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Pineapple Recipe Step 1: Prepare Pineapple Start by cutting off the top and bottom of a fresh pineapple to create a stable base. Carefully slice off the tough rind, then cut the fruit into either thick spears or rings, ensuring even pieces for consistent grilling. The vibrant yellow should be visible, indicating a sweet, ripe fruit ready for grilling. Step 2: Marinade In a bowl, combine melted butter, dark brown sugar, optional dark rum, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, stirring until smooth. Place the cut pineapple in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal the bag and let it chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 3: Preheat Grill While the pineapple marinates, preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Aim for a temperature around 400°F (200°C) for perfect grilling. You can test readiness by holding your hand an inch above the grill; if you can only hold it there for a couple of seconds, it’s hot enough for grilling your delicious pineapple. Step 4: Grill Pineapple Carefully place the marinated pineapple onto the grill. Grill each side for 4-6 minutes, until golden brown grill marks appear and the sugars begin to caramelize. The surface should become glossy and slightly charred, releasing a tantalizing aroma that signals your grilled pineapple is nearly ready. Step 5: Serve Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and let it rest for a minute to lock in the juices. Serve warm for an irresistible treat, and consider pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut ice cream. This easy Grilled Pineapple Recipe is perfect for elevating summer gatherings or satisfying your sweet cravings any time of year. Grilled Pineapple Recipe Variations Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine as you customize this delightful dish! Herb Infusion: Add fresh mint or basil to the marinade for a refreshing herbal twist that brightens each bite. A sprinkle of chopped mint on top truly elevates the grilled pineapple, adding a delightful aroma and flavor. Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy contrast to the sweetness. The heat pairs surprisingly well with the caramelized sugars, creating a dynamic flavor profile that’ll tingle your taste buds. Tropical Partner: Serve with a drizzle of coconut cream to heighten the tropical experience and add creaminess. The rich texture and subtle sweetness of coconut cream will take your grilled pineapple to a whole new level. Cinnamon Twist: Use nutmeg or allspice instead of cinnamon for a different aromatic effect. These spices bring warmth and depth to the grilled pineapple, perfect for cozy evenings year-round. Fruit Medley: Mix in other fruits like peaches or nectarines for a vibrant grilled fruit platter. Combining different fruits enhances flavor diversity, ensuring every bite is a delightful surprise! Dessert Duo: Serve with a scoop of your favorite ice cream or whipped cream for enhanced indulgence. A luscious topping can transform this dish from simple to sensational, especially when paired with vanilla or coconut ice cream. Caramel Drizzle: Once grilled, finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness. This gives the dish a decadent touch, making it ideal for special occasions or those sweet-tooth cravings. For more flavor-packed ideas, you might also enjoy these Grilled Teriyaki Tofu skewers or indulge in delicious Double Chocolate Chip cookies as dessert! What to Serve with 5-Ingredient Grilled Pineapple Delight Elevate your summer dining experience with these delicious side dishes and pairings that bring out the essence of tropical flavors. Creamy Coconut Rice: This dish adds a rich, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the grilled pineapple’s juicy sweetness, enhancing your tropical theme. Savory Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken complements the pineapple’s caramelized sugar, making for a delightful balance between sweet and savory. Fresh Mint Salad: A refreshing salad bursting with vibrant greens and a citrus dressing that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of grilled pineapple. Sweet Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the warmth of grilled pineapple, creating a memorable dessert experience. Zesty Tropical Salsa: Made with mango, cilantro, and lime, this salsa adds a zesty kick that enhances the grilled pineapple’s natural sweetness and tropical vibe. Sparkling Mocktail: Consider serving a fruity, sparkling mocktail with hints of pineapple or coconut; it’s a refreshing drink that beautifully complements summer flavors. Enjoy these delightful pairings, and make your 5-Ingredient Grilled Pineapple Delight the star of your table! Make Ahead Options These Grilled Pineapple Recipe components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice and marinate the fresh pineapple up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cut the pineapple into spears or rings and place them in the marinade (butter, brown sugar, rum, cinnamon, and salt) in a zip-top bag to refrigerate until ready to grill. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the pineapple stays fresh. When it’s time to serve, just preheat your grill and cook the marinated pineapple for 4-6 minutes on each side. You’ll enjoy restaurant-quality grilled pineapple with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a breeze! How to Store and Freeze Grilled Pineapple Fridge: Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Avoid storing it in liquid to prevent sogginess and maintain its delicious texture. Freezer: If you want to save it longer, freeze grilled pineapple pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can last for up to 3 months. Reheating: To reheat, microwave on low for about 30 seconds or warm it gently in a skillet to preserve flavor and texture. Enjoy your grilled pineapple recipe even after the grill has cooled down! Make-Ahead: Marinate the pineapple in advance and let it sit in the fridge for up to 2 hours before grilling for optimal flavor. Expert Tips for Grilled Pineapple Choose Ripe Pineapple: For the best flavor, always select ripe pineapples, which should have a sweet aroma at the base. Under-ripe fruit can taste bland in this grilled pineapple recipe. Marinating Time Matters: Aim for the full 30 minutes in the marinade to allow the flavors to fully develop. Skipping this step will result in less flavor and richness. Perfect Grill Marks: Ensure your grill is adequately preheated. If the surface isn’t hot enough, the sugars won’t caramelize, leading to a less satisfying texture. Watch the Time: Grill each side for 4-6 minutes, but keep an eye on the pineapple to prevent burning. The goal is golden-brown grill marks, not charred pieces! Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your grilled pineapple warm. Allowing it to sit too long can lead to a mushy texture. Versatile Pairings: Try serving it with whipped cream or atop a slice of pound cake for an extra special treat. This grilled pineapple recipe shines in many settings! Grilled Pineapple Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting fresh pineapple? Absolutely! When choosing a pineapple, look for one that feels heavy for its size, has a sweet aroma at the base, and appears vibrant and golden rather than dull. The leaves should look fresh and green, not brown or wilted. Avoid any fruit with dark spots all over, as this can indicate overripeness or spoilage. How should I store leftover grilled pineapple? To store leftovers, place the grilled pineapple in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to avoid storing it in any liquid to prevent sogginess, allowing you to enjoy its delightful texture on your next treat. Can I freeze grilled pineapple, and if so, how? Very! To freeze your grilled pineapple, first lay the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place it in the freezer until solid, then transfer the pieces to a zip-top bag. This method helps prevent sticking. It can be stored for up to 3 months, providing a sweet addition to smoothies or desserts whenever the craving strikes. What if my grilled pineapple is too dry? If your grilled pineapple turns out too dry, it may have been grilled for too long or on too high of heat. Aim for 4-6 minutes per side, and keep an eye on it. For future batches, using a marinade will also help retain moisture and add flavor. If you find it dry after cooking, you can drizzle some honey or a splash of pineapple juice over it before serving to enhance its juiciness. Can I make this recipe gluten-free or vegan? Absolutely! This grilled pineapple recipe is quite versatile. Simply substitute the butter with coconut oil for a vegan option. As for gluten concerns, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you can indulge without worry. If you’re concerned about allergies, always check that any additional ingredients, like ice cream, are also free from gluten. What are some common pairings or serving suggestions for grilled pineapple? I often serve grilled pineapple warm, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut ice cream for a tropical flair. It also complements grilled meats beautifully or can be sliced atop pound cake for a delicious dessert. Don’t forget about whipped cream or yogurt for a delightful contrast to the sweet fruit! Delicious Grilled Pineapple Recipe for Summer Bliss No ratings yet This Grilled Pineapple Recipe brings a tropical flavor to your summer gatherings with its sweetness and ease, perfect for dessert lovers. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 6 minutes minsMarinating Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 46 minutes mins Servings: 4 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: TropicalCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Marinade1 Fresh Pineapple Fresh Pineapple Use ripe pineapples for the best sweetness and texture.1/4 cup Butter Melted, adds richness and helps caramelize the sugars beautifully.1/4 cup Dark Brown Sugar Deepens the flavor and enhances sweetness; light brown sugar works, too!1/4 cup Dark Rum Optional; provides depth and enhances caramelization.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Infuses warmth and spice; consider ginger for a fragrant alternative.1 pinch Salt Elevates the overall flavor profile of the grilled pineapple. Equipment grillMixing Bowlzip-top bag Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilled Pineapple RecipeCut off the top and bottom of a fresh pineapple to create a stable base. Slice off the tough rind and cut into thick spears or rings.Combine melted butter, dark brown sugar, optional dark rum, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Place the cut pineapple in a zip-top bag, pour in the marinade, seal, and let chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes.Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to about 400°F (200°C).Place the marinated pineapple onto the grill. Grill each side for 4-6 minutes until golden brown grill marks appear.Remove from the grill and let the pineapple rest for a minute before serving warm, optionally with ice cream. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor the best flavor, always select ripe pineapples. Marinating for the full 30 minutes enhances the taste. Serve immediately for best results. 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