This honey glazed grilled pineapple is a tasty treat! The sweet and sticky honey makes the juicy pineapple even more delicious when it’s cooked on the grill.
If you think fruit can’t be a dessert, wait until you try this! 🌞 I love serving it with vanilla ice cream—it’s a perfect summer dessert that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is crucial for this dish. Look for one that’s slightly soft to the touch and has a sweet smell. If you can’t find a fresh one, canned pineapple slices in juice can work in a pinch, but fresh will always taste better!
Honey: I love using raw honey, as it has a lovely flavor and lots of nutrients. If you want a lower-calorie option, agave syrup or maple syrup is a great substitute. Just keep the sweetness in mind, as they can differ a bit!
Butter: Melted butter adds richness, but you can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option. It’s also a fun twist that complements pineapple well.
Cinnamon: This is optional, but it adds a warm sweetness. If you don’t have it, you could use nutmeg or even skip it entirely. I find a little sprinkle of peppermint can also add a refreshing touch!
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds a burst of color and flavor, but if you don’t have it, a dash of balsamic glaze after grilling can also enhance the pineapple beautifully!
How Do You Grill Pineapple to Get Beautiful Marks and Flavor?
Grilling pineapple is simple, but getting those perfect grill marks takes a bit of technique. Here’s how to achieve delicious, caramelized slices:
- Preheat your grill before adding the pineapple. This helps to sear the fruit quickly for better flavor and texture.
- Cut your pineapple into uniform 1/2-inch thick slices. This ensures even cooking and easier handling on the grill.
- Brush the pineapple slices thoroughly with the honey mixture on both sides. This caramelizes beautifully on the grill!
- Place the slices on the hottest part of your grill. Avoid moving them too soon; give them 3-4 minutes until nice marks appear.
- Flip carefully using tongs to prevent breaking the slices. Repeat until both sides are grilled well.
Let them cool slightly, and don’t forget the garnish! It really enhances the presentation and flavor.
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes of preparation time and another 10 minutes of grilling time. So, in total, you’ll need just around 20 minutes to make this tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This way, it will be ready for your delicious pineapple slices when you are!
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Next, take your ripe pineapple and slice it into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Remember to carefully remove both the outer skin and the core, leaving just the juicy fruit for grilling.
3. Mix the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the honey and melted butter. If you love the flavor of cinnamon, go ahead and add in the ground cinnamon too. Use a spoon to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Brush the Pineapple:
Take a brush or the back of a spoon and coat both sides of each pineapple slice with your honey mixture. Make sure they’re well-covered to get that lovely glaze!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
It’s time to grill! Place the pineapple slices on the preheated grill. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for those lovely grill marks and a little caramelization to know they’re ready!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re grilled to perfection, carefully remove the slices from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. If you want, you can sprinkle a bit more cinnamon on top and add some fresh mint leaves to make it look extra special.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your grilled pineapple warm, either as a delightful dessert or a perfect side to grilled meats for a sweet and savory combo. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Other Sweeteners Instead of Honey?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for an alternative to honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly; maple syrup will give a rich, earthy taste, while agave has a milder profile. Adjust the quantity if necessary, but the measurements should be similar.
How to Choose a Ripe Pineapple?
Selecting a ripe pineapple is key! Look for one that is slightly soft when pressed, has a sweet smell at the base, and has vibrant, green leaves. Avoid pineapples with dark spots or overly firm surfaces, as these might not be ripe enough.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prepare the honey mixture in advance, but it’s best to grill the pineapple just before serving for the best flavor and texture. If you need to slice the pineapple ahead of time, store the slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Just brush them with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Grilled Pineapple?
Grilled pineapple is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with ice cream, yogurt, or even as a topping for pancakes! It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats too, adding a sweet and tangy contrast.
