Easy Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple: Your Ultimate 5-Ingredient Summer Dessert & Side
There’s nothing quite like the taste of summer, and this Grilled Cinnamon Pineapple Recipe captures that essence perfectly. Simple to prepare and ready in under 20 minutes, this dish offers a delightful blend of sweet and smoky flavors that will become a staple at your backyard barbecues. It’s an incredibly versatile recipe, serving as a perfect summer dessert, a vibrant appetizer, or a unique side dish that both kids and adults will adore.
Infused with a warm cinnamon-brown sugar glaze, this grilled pineapple transforms from a simple fruit into an extraordinary treat. The grilling process caramelizes the natural sugars, intensifying the pineapple’s sweetness and adding a beautiful char that brings depth to every bite. What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity: you only need five readily available ingredients and approximately 20 minutes of your time from start to finish. Whether you choose fresh or canned pineapple, the results are consistently delicious, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dessert or a crowd-pleasing addition to any summer gathering.
Beyond its standalone deliciousness, grilled cinnamon pineapple pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a classic sweet treat, serve it warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re looking for a more savory combination, its tropical sweetness complements grilled meats like pork chops, chicken, or even a flavorful fish perfectly. This recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of summer flavors that you’ll want to enjoy all season long.
Essential Ingredient Notes for the Perfect Grilled Pineapple
Crafting the perfect grilled cinnamon pineapple starts with understanding your ingredients. While this recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few key considerations will elevate your dish from good to unforgettable.
Pineapple: The star of our show! While a fresh pineapple offers the best flavor and texture, this recipe is flexible enough to accommodate your preferences and schedule. I personally love using a fresh, ripe pineapple and slicing it into spears myself. This allows for thicker cuts that hold up beautifully on the grill and develop a more pronounced char. To save time, many local grocery stores now offer pre-sliced pineapple spears, which are a fantastic convenience. If fresh pineapple isn’t available or you’re in a hurry, canned pineapple rings can also be used. However, keep in mind that canned pineapple is typically thinner and softer, so the cooking time will be significantly reduced – often by about half. Whichever you choose, ensure your pineapple is drained well if using canned, or properly prepared if fresh.
Butter: Butter is key to achieving that rich, golden-brown crust and carrying the cinnamon-sugar flavor. It helps the pineapple caramelize beautifully and prevents sticking. For those looking to make this recipe vegan, it’s an easy swap! Simply substitute the melted butter with an equal amount of olive oil or melted coconut oil. Be aware that using oil, particularly olive oil, may cause the pineapple to smoke a bit more on the grill due to its lower smoke point compared to butter. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning and ensure a perfect char.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is essential for this recipe, adding a deep molasses flavor and contributing to the wonderful caramelization on the grill. It creates a sticky, sweet glaze that adheres perfectly to the pineapple. You can adjust the amount slightly to suit your sweetness preference.
Cinnamon: The warm, aromatic spice that gives this dish its signature flavor. Cinnamon pairs exquisitely with the tropical sweetness of pineapple, adding a comforting and inviting note. Freshly ground cinnamon will always offer the most vibrant flavor.
Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt might seem counterintuitive in a sweet dish, but it’s a game-changer. Salt helps to balance and enhance all the other flavors, bringing out the pineapple’s natural sweetness and making the cinnamon and brown sugar sing. Don’t skip it!
Why You Will LOVE This Irresistible Dish!
Lightning Fast: This delicious recipe is ready in a mere 15-20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or busy weeknights.
Minimal Ingredients: You only need 5 simple ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry.
Universal Appeal: A crowd-pleaser for all ages! Its sweet, tangy, and warm flavors are great for both kids & adults.
Incredibly Versatile: Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish, a delectable appetizer, or a show-stopping dessert throughout the summer season and beyond. It truly does it all!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilling Cinnamon Pineapple
Follow these simple steps to create perfectly grilled cinnamon pineapple that’s tender, sweet, and beautifully charred.
- Prepare Your Grill: Begin by heating your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to a medium heat setting. While it warms up, generously spray the grates with cooking spray or lightly oil them. This crucial step prevents the pineapple from sticking and helps create those desirable char marks.
- Pineapple Preparation: If using a fresh pineapple, careful preparation is key to even cooking.
- First, use a sharp knife to carefully cut off the leafy top and the sturdy bottom end of the pineapple.
- Next, stand the pineapple upright and slice it in half lengthwise, cutting straight through the middle and its fibrous core.
- Third, meticulously remove the hard, woody core from each half. This can be done by making two angled cuts around the core to create a V-shape, then lifting it out. Discard the core.
- After removing the core, carefully slice off the tough outer skin from each pineapple half, ensuring you remove all the “eyes.”
- Finally, slice each peeled and cored half into four even spears or sticks. This should yield a total of eight pineapple spears, though the exact number may vary slightly depending on the size of your pineapple. If using canned pineapple rings, simply drain them thoroughly and proceed to the next step.
- Craft the Cinnamon Butter Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter (or olive oil for a vegan option), ground cinnamon, a pinch of sea salt, and the brown sugar. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until you have a smooth, well-combined mixture. This flavorful glaze is what gives our grilled pineapple its irresistible taste. Make sure to reserve a portion of this sauce for drizzling over the finished pineapple.
- Coat the Pineapple: Arrange the sliced pineapple spears (or rings) in a shallow dish or on a plate. Using a pastry brush, generously coat all sides of each pineapple piece with the cinnamon butter mixture. Ensure every surface is well covered to maximize flavor and caramelization.
- Grill to Perfection: Carefully place all the coated pineapple pieces onto your warm outdoor grill (or grill pan on the stove). Cook for approximately 4 minutes per side. Resist the urge to move the pineapple around too much during this time. Let it sit undisturbed to allow beautiful char marks to form. Once you see a nice char, flip each piece and cook for another 4 minutes on the opposite side. The goal is to achieve a tender interior with an appetizing charred exterior.
- Serve Warm: Once your pineapple is tender but still holds its shape (not mushy), warm throughout, and has developed those lovely char marks, carefully remove it from the grill using tongs. Serve immediately while warm, drizzled with the reserved cinnamon butter sauce. It’s also fantastic paired with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or as an accompaniment to your main dish of choice.
Leftover Storage:
For the best experience, grilled pineapple with cinnamon is truly best enjoyed fresh and warm. Unfortunately, it does not store particularly well. The texture tends to soften excessively and can become watery upon reheating. Therefore, I do not recommend trying to keep any leftovers. It’s best to make only what you plan to eat in one sitting!
Pro Tips for Grilling Pineapple Like a Pro
Achieving perfectly grilled cinnamon pineapple is easy with these expert tips:
Avoid Overcooking for Optimal Texture: When grilling the pineapple, be very careful not to cook it for too long. While it will still taste wonderful, overcooked pineapple will become excessively soft, almost mushy, and may start to fall apart on the grill, making it difficult to handle and serve. The ideal texture is tender and juicy with a slight firmness, allowing it to hold its shape beautifully. Keep a close watch and aim for golden-brown edges with distinct char marks, removing it from the heat as soon as it reaches this desired consistency.
The Secret to Perfect Char Marks: To get those visually appealing and flavor-enhancing char marks on your pineapple, the trick is simple: don’t wiggle or move the pineapple around once it’s on the grill. Place each piece down, let it sit undisturbed for the recommended 4-5 minutes (or until a good char develops), and then flip it just once. This steady contact with the hot grill grates creates beautiful, distinct grill lines that not only look impressive but also add a delicious smoky flavor that complements the sweet pineapple and cinnamon glaze. Patience is key here!
Never Toss the Cinnamon Butter Sauce: This flavorful glaze is too good to waste! Do not discard the remaining cinnamon butter sauce after coating the pineapple. This reserved sauce is liquid gold and serves as an incredible finishing touch. Drizzle it generously over the cooked pineapple just before serving to add an extra layer of sweetness and spice. It also pairs exceptionally well when mixed into plain yogurt, served alongside ice cream, or even spread on toast for a unique breakfast treat. Always save it!
Choosing Your Grill: This recipe works well on various types of grills.
- Gas Grills: Offer consistent heat and easy temperature control. Preheat to medium and clean the grates.
- Charcoal Grills: Provide a more intense smoky flavor. Aim for medium heat by allowing coals to turn ashy white.
- Grill Pans: Perfect for indoor grilling. Ensure the pan is hot before adding pineapple for good sear marks.
No matter your choice, ensure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Creative Serving Suggestions
While simply drizzling the grilled cinnamon pineapple with the leftover cinnamon butter sauce is a pure delight, don’t hesitate to get creative with your serving ideas. For a sweet pairing, transform it into a decadent dessert by serving it alongside creamy vanilla ice cream, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a cloud of fresh whipped cream. You could also serve it atop a slice of warm pound cake or a scoop of cottage cheese for a lighter option. For those who prefer a savory route, this tropical delight makes an excellent accompaniment to summer meals. It’s particularly fantastic when served with succulent grilled chicken, juicy pork tenderloin, or even alongside a flaky white fish. It also works beautifully chopped and added to a vibrant summer salad or as a sweet and tangy element in fish tacos!
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Pineapple
Absolutely, unequivocally YES! Grilled pineapple is a revelation of flavor and texture. Unlike some other grilled fruits that can become mushy, pineapple maintains a pleasant firmness while becoming wonderfully tender. Grilling also performs a magical transformation, concentrating and intensifying the pineapple’s natural sweetness, making it even more vibrant and delicious. When you add a cinnamon butter glaze, as in this recipe, it creates an unparalleled sweet and slightly smoky experience. While the cinnamon butter is fantastic, even a sprinkle of salt and pepper before grilling can bring out an amazing flavor profile.
You typically have two main methods for cutting pineapple for grilling: spears or slices (rings). I personally favor the spears method because it allows you to easily remove the tough, fibrous core, which can be unpleasant to eat. To cut into spears: first, trim off the top and bottom ends. Then, stand the pineapple upright and carefully slice off the skin around the perimeter, working from top to bottom. Once peeled, cut the pineapple in half lengthwise, remove the core from each half (as detailed in the instructions above), and then slice each half into 3-4 even spears. If you prefer rings, you can use a pineapple corer tool or simply slice the peeled pineapple into rounds and then use a small cookie cutter or knife to remove the core from each ring.
Yes, grilled fruit, including pineapple, can be a wonderfully healthy addition to your diet and a fantastic alternative to heavier grilled items like meats. Fruits are naturally rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and grilling them adds a unique smoky flavor without needing much added fat. While fruits do contain natural sugars, they also provide fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar. Like anything, moderation is key, especially if you’re adding sugary glazes or syrups. Enjoyed in balanced portions, grilled pineapple is a delicious and nutritious way to satisfy your sweet tooth and boost your nutrient intake.
While you can slice and coat the pineapple with the cinnamon-butter mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, grilled pineapple is truly best enjoyed fresh off the grill. The warm, tender texture and caramelized flavors are at their peak immediately after cooking. If you prepare it too far ahead or store leftovers, the pineapple tends to soften excessively and lose some of its vibrant taste. For the best results, I recommend grilling it just before serving.
Cinnamon is a classic and wonderful pairing, but feel free to experiment! A touch of nutmeg or ginger can complement the cinnamon beautifully. For a spicy kick, a tiny pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper in the glaze can create an exciting sweet and spicy contrast. Vanilla extract can also be added to the butter mixture for another layer of warmth. Don’t be afraid to try different combinations to discover your favorite!
You May Also Enjoy These Sweet & Savory Recipes…
- Easy Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas Recipe
- Healthy Mango Avocado Salsa Recipe
- Sweet & Spicy Jalapeno Pineapple Salsa Recipe
- Grilled Peaches Recipe with Mascarpone & Honey
Thank you so much for stopping by and trying this delightful recipe! If you made this grilled cinnamon pineapple, I would be absolutely thrilled to hear from you in the comments section below. Your feedback and experiences mean the world! If you’re keen to keep up with what The Erhardts are Eating (and discovering around the globe), be sure to follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter& Youtube.
Happy Eating!
Easy Cinnamon Grilled Pineapple Recipe
Caitlyn Erhardt
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Ingredients
- 1 Pineapple (fresh, medium-sized, or equivalent canned pineapple rings)
- ½ Cup Unsalted Butter (melted, or olive oil for vegan option)
- ⅛ teaspoon Sea Salt
- 1 ½ teaspoon Cinnamon
- ⅓ cup Brown Sugar
Instructions
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Preheat your grill or grill pan to a medium heat. Lightly spray the grill grates with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
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To prepare the pineapple: first, cut off the top and bottom ends. Stand it upright and slice it in half through the core. Carefully remove the tough outer skin and then cut out the fibrous core from each half. Finally, slice each half into four even spears or sticks, resulting in a total of 8 spears. If using canned pineapple, simply drain them well.
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In a small bowl, combine the melted butter (or olive oil), sea salt, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
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Arrange the sliced pineapple in a shallow dish or on a plate. Generously brush all sides of each pineapple piece with the cinnamon butter mixture. Make sure to reserve any remaining butter sauce for serving.
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Carefully place the coated pineapple onto the hot grill. Allow it to cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side until distinct char marks begin to form and the pineapple is tender. Flip only once to achieve the best char.
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Once the pineapple is beautifully soft, warm, and slightly charred, remove it from the grill using tongs. Serve warm, drizzled with the reserved cinnamon butter sauce, or enjoy it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or as a side to your preferred dish. Enjoy your delicious grilled pineapple!
Notes
Pineapple Options: For the most authentic flavor and texture, I suggest using a fresh pineapple and slicing it into spears yourself. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced fresh pineapple spears are a convenient alternative. Canned pineapple rings can also be used, but remember their thinner cut will significantly reduce grilling time (by about half).
Vegan Option: To easily adapt this recipe for a vegan diet, simply swap the unsalted butter for an equal amount of olive oil or melted coconut oil. Keep in mind that oils may smoke more on the grill, so monitor closely.
Grill Tip for Perfect Char: The secret to achieving beautiful, distinct char marks is minimal movement. Place the pineapple on the grill and let it sit undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side. Avoid wiggling or flipping too early; patience yields the best results.
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