Grilled Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pineapple Spears
Sweet and smoky grilled pineapple spears glazed with a rich brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon mixture. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars while creating beautiful grill marks and a tender, juicy interior. Perfect as a summer dessert, side dish for barbecues, or tropical accompaniment to grilled meats. The warm spices complement the pineapple's natural sweetness, while a splash of fresh lime juice adds brightness to balance the rich glaze.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the grill to 325 degrees F
- 2
Slice the top and bottom off the pineapple and remove the skin by cutting down the sides deep enough to remove the eyes
- 3
Slice along the outside of the core around each side, then slice each piece into 1 inch spears
- 4
In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon
- 5
Heat and stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is bubbling, then remove from heat and set aside
- 6
Spray the preheated grill with cooking oil
- 7
Place the pineapple spears on the grill and brush with the brown sugar mixture
- 8
Cook over medium low heat until the pineapple is golden brown
- 9
Using tongs, flip each piece over and brush again with the brown sugar mixture
- 10
Repeat until all sides are golden brown and slightly caramelized
- 11
Remove the pineapple from the grill and allow to cool for a few minutes
- 12
Serve warm with fresh lime juice if desired
Tips
Choose a ripe pineapple that yields slightly to pressure and has a sweet aroma at the base for the best grilling results.
Keep extra brown sugar mixture warm and brush it on multiple times during grilling for deeper caramelization.
Let the pineapple cool slightly before serving to avoid burns from the hot, caramelized sugar coating.
Good to Know
Store leftover grilled pineapple in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in a covered container.
Pineapple can be prepped and cut up to 1 day ahead. Make glaze up to 2 hours ahead and reheat before using.
Serve warm immediately off the grill for best texture and flavor. Can be served at room temperature.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip preheating the grill to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking
Remove pineapple core completely to avoid tough, fibrous pieces
Keep glaze warm to prevent it from hardening when brushed on hot fruit
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Fresh pineapple works best for grilling as canned pineapple is softer and may fall apart. If using canned, choose thick rings and reduce cooking time significantly.
How long will the grilled pineapple keep?
Grilled pineapple will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture will soften over time but the flavor remains good.
Can I make this without a grill?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop over medium heat or roast in a 425°F oven for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through.