Picture this: golden pineapple slices kissed by the flames of your grill, their edges caramelized to perfection, releasing that intoxicating smoky-sweet aroma that instantly transports you to a tropical paradise. That’s the magic of grilled pineapple—a dessert so simple, yet so utterly irresistible, it’ll have your guests begging for seconds (and the recipe).
This isn’t just fruit on a grill; it’s a transformation. The heat coaxes out the pineapple’s natural sugars, creating a symphony of flavors—bright, juicy, and just a touch smoky. Serve it solo for a healthy treat, or take it over the top with a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream melting into those warm, caramelized crevices. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be firing up the grill just for pineapple.
Why This Recipe Works
- Nature’s candy: No need for extra sugar—the grill does all the work, turning each slice into a sticky, golden masterpiece.
- Speed demon: 10 minutes of prep, 5 minutes on the grill, and boom—dessert is served.
- Endless possibilities: Eat it straight off the grill, toss it on yogurt, or pair it with coconut Whipped Cream for a tropical twist.
The Perks You’ll Love
- Guilt-free indulgence: Packed with vitamin C, manganese, and digestion-friendly enzymes.
- Diet-friendly: Naturally gluten-free, vegan, and low-calorie—so everyone can dig in.
- Summer in every bite: That smoky-sweet flavor? Pure sunshine on a plate.
Essential Ingredients & Tools
Ingredients for Grilled Pineapple
- 1 ripe pineapple: Go for fresh—look for golden-yellow skin and a sweet, fragrant smell at the base. If the leaves pull out easily, it’s ready. (Canned rings can work in a pinch but may lack texture.)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted: Adds a hint of tropical richness and keeps the slices from sticking. (Substitute with neutral oil like vegetable or canola if needed.)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional): For extra caramelization, but skip it if you’re keeping it sugar-free.
- ½ tsp cinnamon: Warm, cozy, and just the right touch. Swap in nutmeg or cardamom if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Pinch of sea salt: The secret weapon—it balances the sweetness and makes every flavor pop.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh mint leaves: For a burst of freshness.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes: Adds crunch and takes the tropical vibe up a notch.
- Lime zest: A little citrusy zing to brighten things up.
Tools You’ll Need
- Grill (gas or charcoal): That smoky flavor is non-negotiable. No grill? A screaming-hot grill pan works in a pinch.
- Tongs: For flipping without mangling those beautiful slices.
- Pastry brush (or silicone brush): To slather on the coconut oil evenly.
- Sharp knife & cutting board: For slicing the pineapple like a pro.
How to Make Grilled Pineapple Slices
- Prep the Pineapple
First, lop off the top and bottom so it sits steady. Stand it upright and slice off the skin in downward strips, following the curve of the fruit. Then, cut it into ½-inch thick rounds—any thinner, and they’ll fall apart; any thicker, and they won’t caramelize properly. Use a small cookie cutter or knife to remove the tough core from each slice. (Pro tip: Don’t toss the core! Blend it into smoothies or infuse it in water—it’s packed with flavor.) - Flavor Boost
Brush both sides of each slice with 2 tbsp melted coconut oil—this is your insurance against sticking and your ticket to extra flavor. Sprinkle with ½ tsp cinnamon and that pinch of sea salt. (Fun fact: Salt doesn’t just make things salty—it enhances sweetness, making every bite more vibrant.) Drizzle with 1 tbsp honey if you’re going for that next-level caramelization. - Fire Up the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high (375°F–400°F). Scrub the grates clean, then oil them with a folded paper towel held with tongs. This ensures those gorgeous grill marks without the sticking. (No grill? A cast-iron grill pan preheated until it’s smoking hot is your best friend.) - Grill to Perfection
Lay the slices on the grill and—here’s the hard part—don’t touch them for at least 2 minutes. Let the magic of the Maillard reaction (aka flavor alchemy) work its wonders. When you see deep golden grill marks, flip them. Want those fancy crosshatch marks? Rotate the slices 45 degrees halfway through cooking each side. - Glaze (Optional but Glorious)
In the last 30 seconds, drizzle with 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for a glossy, caramelized finish. Watch it like a hawk—sugar burns fast. - Serve with Flair
Slide those beauties onto a platter and garnish with mint, toasted coconut, or lime zest. The contrast of warm pineapple and cool garnishes? Chef’s kiss.
Pro Technique
The Maillard Reaction: Your Flavor BFF
Grilling isn’t just about heat—it’s about controlled caramelization. Pat the slices dry before grilling; moisture is the enemy of browning. For deeper color, brush with 1 tbsp honey before cooking—its fructose caramelizes faster than pineapple’s natural sugars.
The 90-Second Rule
If the slices stick when you try to flip them, they’re not ready. Wait until they release easily. And for extra smokiness, toss some apple or hickory wood chips on the coals, or use a smoker box on a gas grill.
Chef’s Wisdom
Picking the Perfect Pineapple
A ripe pineapple should smell sweet at the base and have a golden-yellow hue. Avoid green tops or a fermented smell. Pre-cut pineapple? Save it for smoothies—it’s too mushy for grilling.
Taming the Flames
Pineapple’s sugars can cause flare-ups. If your grill gets too rowdy, move the slices to indirect heat. Indoors? Use a heavy grill pan preheated for 5 minutes. Test the heat with water droplets—if they sizzle and vanish, you’re good to go.
Perfect Pairings
Complementary Dishes
- Grilled Pound Cake: The buttery richness of toasted cake absorbs pineapple juices, creating a textural harmony of crisp edges and soft fruit. Serve warm with a dollop of mascarpone.
- Coconut Rice Pudding: The creamy, nutty pudding contrasts with the smoky pineapple. Sprinkle with toasted coconut for crunch.
Drinks
- Sparkling Moscato: The wine’s effervescence and peach notes mirror the fruit’s caramelized sweetness. Serve chilled in flute glasses.
- Mint Mojito (Non-Alcoholic): Muddled mint and lime cut through the richness, making this a refreshing palate cleanser.
Something Sweet
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The classic pairing—hot pineapple slightly melts the ice cream, creating a luscious sauce. Opt for high-fat varieties (14%+) for creamier texture.
- Dark Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of 70% cocoa chocolate adds bitter contrast and elevates the dessert’s sophistication.
Storage & Freshness Guide
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, with parchment between slices to prevent sticking. Revive them with a quick broil or skillet sear.
Freezer: Freeze slices on a tray first, then transfer to a bag. They’ll keep for 2 months—perfect for smoothies or instant desserts.
Safety Note: Don’t leave grilled pineapple out for more than 2 hours (1 hour if it’s scorching outside). Sugary, moist foods are bacteria magnets.
Nutrition Profile
One serving (2 slices) packs:
- 80 calories
- 3g fat
- 1g protein
- 15g carbs
- 2g fiber
Ingredient Variations and Their Impact
- Spicy Tropical: Dust with cayenne or Tajín post-grill, or infuse the oil with minced chili for a sweet-heat combo.
- Brown Sugar Glaze: Simmer brown sugar and water into a syrup, then brush it on for a butterscotch-like finish.
- Citrus-Marinated: Soak slices in orange juice and lime zest before grilling for a bright, tangy kick.
- Savory-Sweet Teriyaki: Brush with soy sauce and honey during grilling, then garnish with sesame seeds.
- Rum-Infused: Mix dark rum into the oil, or flambé the slices for a showstopping finish.
Grilled Pineapple Slices: The Ultimate Summer Dessert That’ll Steal the Show
Learn how to make perfect Grilled Pineapple Slices with my easy recipe. Sweet, smoky, and ready in minutes—the ultimate summer dessert! Try it now.
Ingredients
Main
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1 ripe pineapple
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2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
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1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
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½ tsp cinnamon
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Pinch sea salt
Instructions
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Slice pineapple into ½-inch rounds and remove the core.01
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Brush both sides with 2 tbsp coconut oil and sprinkle with ½ tsp cinnamon and pinch of sea salt.02
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Preheat grill to medium-high (375°F–400°F).03
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Grill slices for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized.04
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Optional: Drizzle with 1 tbsp honey in the last 30 seconds of grilling.05
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Serve warm with garnishes of choice.06
