If you’re looking for an easy dessert that captures the flavors of summer, this Mouthwatering Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar is the perfect recipe. Fresh pineapple rings are brushed with a rich brown sugar and maple glaze, then grilled until beautifully caramelized with smoky char marks. Finished with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt, this sweet and juicy dessert is simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for backyard barbecues and holiday cookouts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in less than 25 minutes.
- Naturally sweet with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and caramelized flavors.
- Great for cookouts, BBQs, and summer gatherings.
- Easy enough for beginner cooks.
- Delicious served on its own or paired with ice cream.
- Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
Ingredients
For the Pineapple
- 1 large pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into ¾-inch thick rings
For the Brown Sugar Glaze
- ⅓ cup dark brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For Finishing
- ¾ teaspoon coarse sea salt
Instructions
- Peel, core, and slice the pineapple into evenly sized ¾-inch thick rings for even grilling.
- In a small bowl, combine the dark brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir until a smooth, thick glaze forms.
- Let the glaze rest for about 1 minute so the cinnamon fully blends with the other ingredients.
- Preheat your grill to 350°F (175°C) or medium heat.
- Brush both sides of each pineapple ring generously with the brown sugar glaze.
- Place the coated pineapple rings directly on the hot grill grates.
- Grill for 4 to 8 minutes per side, depending on your grill’s heat, until the pineapple develops beautiful grill marks and the glaze caramelizes.
- Rotate the pineapple halfway through cooking on each side for attractive crosshatch grill marks.
- Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter.
- Finish with a light sprinkle of coarse sea salt to enhance the sweetness and add a subtle crunch.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Tips & Tricks
- Choose a ripe pineapple with a sweet aroma and golden color for the best flavor.
- Cut the pineapple into even slices to ensure consistent grilling.
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Avoid overcooking, as the pineapple may become too soft.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the glaze for extra warmth.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or coconut ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Vegetarian
Notes
- Fresh pineapple produces the best texture and flavor.
- Dark brown sugar creates a deeper caramel flavor than light brown sugar.
- Honey can be substituted for maple syrup if desired.
- This recipe also works beautifully on an indoor grill pan.
- Leftover grilled pineapple is delicious chopped into fruit salads, yogurt bowls, or smoothies.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 145
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 240mg
FAQ
Can I use canned pineapple?
Fresh pineapple is strongly recommended because it grills better and develops richer caramelization. Canned pineapple contains more moisture and won’t achieve the same texture.
How do I know when the pineapple is done?
The pineapple is ready when it has golden caramelized edges, visible grill marks, and is tender while still holding its shape.
Can I cook this without an outdoor grill?
Yes. An indoor grill pan or cast-iron skillet works well and produces similar caramelization.
What should I serve with grilled pineapple?
It’s delicious with vanilla ice cream, grilled pound cake, yogurt, coconut whipped cream, or even alongside grilled chicken or pork for a sweet-and-savory meal.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes. The glaze can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Stir well before using.
Is grilled pineapple healthy?
Yes. Pineapple is naturally rich in vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants. This recipe uses simple ingredients while highlighting the fruit’s natural sweetness.
Storage
Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Although freezing is possible for up to 2 months, the texture becomes softer after thawing and is best used in smoothies or desserts.
Reheat briefly on the grill, in a skillet, or in the microwave until warmed through.
Similar Recipes
Mouthwatering Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar
Ingredients
For the Pineapple
- 1 large pineapple peeled, cored, and sliced into ¾-inch thick rings
For the Brown Sugar Glaze
- ⅓ cup dark brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For Finishing
- ¾ teaspoon coarse sea salt
Instructions
- Peel, core, and slice the pineapple into evenly sized ¾-inch thick rings for even grilling.
- In a small bowl, combine the dark brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir until a smooth, thick glaze forms.
- Let the glaze rest for about 1 minute so the cinnamon fully blends with the other ingredients.
- Preheat your grill to 350°F (175°C) or medium heat.
- Brush both sides of each pineapple ring generously with the brown sugar glaze.
- Place the coated pineapple rings directly on the hot grill grates.
- Grill for 4 to 8 minutes per side, depending on your grill’s heat, until the pineapple develops beautiful grill marks and the glaze caramelizes.
- Rotate the pineapple halfway through cooking on each side for attractive crosshatch grill marks.
- Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter.
- Finish with a light sprinkle of coarse sea salt to enhance the sweetness and add a subtle crunch.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Fresh pineapple produces the best texture and flavor.
- Dark brown sugar creates a deeper caramel flavor than light brown sugar.
- Honey can be substituted for maple syrup if desired.
- This recipe also works beautifully on an indoor grill pan.
- Leftover grilled pineapple is delicious chopped into fruit salads, yogurt bowls, or smoothies.
Conclusion
This Mouthwatering Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar is one of the easiest ways to transform fresh fruit into an unforgettable dessert. The rich brown sugar glaze, warm cinnamon, pure maple syrup, and smoky grill marks create an irresistible combination of flavors, while the finishing touch of coarse sea salt perfectly balances the sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a family cookout, or simply craving a lighter dessert, this grilled pineapple recipe is guaranteed to impress.