If summer had a taste, it would be a slice of grilled pineapple drizzled with warm honey. This dessert is sunshine on a plate — sweet, tangy, and just a little smoky from the grill. You can serve it as a stand-alone treat, a refreshing barbecue side, or even as a sweet topper for grilled pineapple chicken. The best part? It takes less than 15 minutes to make.
Why You’ll Love Grilled Pineapple with Honey
Grilled pineapple is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. When heat hits the natural sugars in ripe pineapple, magic happens. The edges caramelize, the juice intensifies, and you get that irresistible sweet-smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with honey and cinnamon.
It’s quick, simple, and perfect for anyone craving a refreshing dessert without turning on the oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this grilled pineapple recipe, you’ll need just a few pantry staples and a fresh pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple – peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch slices or spears
- ¼ cup honey – warm it slightly for easy drizzling
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – for warmth and depth
- 1 tablespoon melted butter – optional, for richer flavor
- Pinch of sea salt – to balance the sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Pineapple
Peel your pineapple and slice it into even rounds or long spears. If you’re unsure about ripeness, look for a golden-yellow color, a sweet aroma at the base, and leaves that pull out with minimal effort.
2. Make the Honey Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together warm honey, cinnamon, and melted butter (if using). This will be your pineapple glaze — simple but packed with flavor.
3. Heat the Grill
Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. You want the grill hot enough to sear and caramelize without burning.
4. Grill the Pineapple
Place pineapple slices on the grill. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, brushing with the honey glaze as they cook. Look for charred grill marks — that’s where the flavor is.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Transfer the grilled fruit to a platter, drizzle with any remaining honey glaze, and sprinkle with a tiny pinch of sea salt. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Serving Ideas
- Dessert: Pair with vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream.
- Savory Twist: Serve alongside grilled pineapple chicken or fish tacos.
- Brunch Upgrade: Add to pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
- Refreshing Desserts: Chill the grilled slices and serve cold on a hot day.
Tips for the Best Grilled Pineapple with Honey
- Pick the right fruit: Overripe pineapple will become mushy; underripe will be too tart. Aim for perfectly ripe.
- Use a basting brush: Keeps the glaze even and prevents overly sticky spots.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give slices space on the grill so they sear instead of steaming.
- Experiment with spices: Try nutmeg, cardamom, or even chili powder for a kick.
- Try before serving: Taste one slice first — you can always adjust with extra honey or cinnamon.
Final Thoughts
Grilled pineapple with honey is one of those recipes that’s deceptively simple yet feels like a special occasion. It’s light, summery, and fits right in at a backyard barbecue or after a weekday dinner. Once you try it, you might just start putting pineapple on the grill every chance you get.
Grilled Pineapple with Honey
Ingredients
Method
- Prep the pineapple – Peel and core the pineapple. Slice into even rounds or long spears.
- Mix the glaze – In a small bowl, whisk honey, cinnamon, and melted butter (if using).
- Preheat the grill – Heat to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the pineapple – Place slices on the grill. Cook 3–4 minutes per side, brushing with glaze as they cook.
- Serve – Remove from grill, drizzle with leftover glaze, and sprinkle with sea salt. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple for best flavor — canned slices can be used, but they’re softer and sweeter.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder to the glaze.
- Tastes amazing with vanilla ice cream, pancakes, or grilled meats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make grilled pineapple without a grill?
Yes! Use a stovetop grill pan or even a non-stick skillet for a similar caramelized result.
Q: Should I use fresh or canned pineapple?
Fresh is best for flavor and texture, but thick canned slices can work in a pinch.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Place grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat lightly or serve chilled.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but for peak flavor, grill right before serving. Prepped pineapple can be sliced and glazed ahead of time.
Q: What other fruits can I grill with honey?
Peaches, nectarines, bananas, and watermelon all taste amazing grilled with honey glaze.
