Caramelized Honey-Glazed Grilled Pineapple

Start the grilling season on a high note with this irresistibly delicious Caramelized Honey-Glazed Grilled Pineapple recipe. With just five simple ingredients, you can create one of the most delectable appetizers or desserts you’ll taste this summer.

How to Make the Best Grilled Pineapple

Grilling pineapple enhances its natural sweetness and adds a deliciously smoky flavor that’s hard to resist. To achieve the best results, you’ll want to follow these tips:

1. Select the Right Pineapple: Choose a pineapple that is ripe but firm. The skin should be golden brown without any green tinges. Avoid pineapples that are too soft or have dark, soft spots.
2. Prep Properly: Peel the pineapple and cut it into rings or long wedges, depending on your preference. Removing the core is optional, as some people enjoy its crunchy texture. It is also perfectly fine to buy pre-cut pineapple (spears or rings work the best; chunks are often inconsistent in size, which may impact cooking times).
3. Marinate for Flavor: Applying butter, honey, and brown sugar glaze immediately before cooking will result in a delicious flavor. However, if you want even more of this flavor, you can marinate the pineapple slices in this mixture for a few hours before grilling to enhance the absorption of flavors.
4. Grill Temperature Control: Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Grilling pineapple at too high a temperature can cause the sugars to burn quickly without properly caramelizing.
5. Keep It Juicy: Brush the pineapple with the honey, butter, and brown sugar glaze right before and during the grilling process. This not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the pineapple juicy and prevents it from drying out.
6. Watch the Grill Time: Pineapple doesn’t take long to grill—usually about 3-5 minutes per side. Look for the grill marks and a slight caramelization on the surface. Over-grilling can make the pineapple mushy.
7. Let It Rest: Allow the grilled pineapple to sit for a few minutes after grilling. This rest period lets the juices redistribute and the flavors to meld beautifully.

What Pairs Best with Grilled Pineapple?

• As an Appetizer: Serve it as a starter with a sprinkle of fresh mint or cilantro to add a refreshing contrast. You can also add a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness.
• With Meat Dishes: Grilled pineapple is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats. The acidity and sweetness cut through the richness of the meats.
• In Desserts: Top a slice of grilled pineapple with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet exotic dessert. Drizzle with extra honey or caramel sauce (one of our most popular recipes)AMP for added decadence.
• As a Salad Component: Chop the grilled pineapple into smaller pieces and toss it into a salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette.
• Cocktail Garnish: Use a wedge or a slice to garnish tropical drinks, such as pina coladas or daiquiris, enhancing the cocktail experience with its smoky sweetness.

Caramelized Honey-Glazed Grilled Pineapple Ingredients

• 1 lb pineapple; spears
• 1 c brown sugar
• 8 tbsp butter; unsalted
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Caramelized Honey-Glazed Grilled Pineapple Recipe

1. Turn grill to medium heat; In a large microwave-safe bowl (we use Pyrex Smart Essentials), add brown sugar, butter, honey, and cinnamon; microwave for 1-2 minutes; or until butter is completely melted; stir to mix

2. Add pineapple spears to warm mixture, generously coat; place spears on upper rack of grill

3. Cook pineapple for 8-10 minutes; flip several times (when flipping, brush top of pineapple with mixture).
4. Remove from grill and let cool for a few minutes; serve and enjoy!