Name: Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 fresh whole pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 spears; 1/4 cup light brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt; Vegetable oil spray for the grill

Why You’ll Love Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple Recipe

This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of pineapple while adding a smoky char from the grill and a glaze that caramelizes beautifully. It’s a wonderful side dish or dessert that pairs well with grilled meats, ice cream, or can be enjoyed on its own. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and cook time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 fresh whole pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 spears
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
Vegetable oil spray for the grill

Directions

Place the pineapple spears in a large mixing bowl. Add the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, vanilla extract, and salt. Toss to coat evenly.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
Preheat a grill pan over high heat. Spray it lightly with vegetable oil spray just before grilling.
Grill the pineapple spears for 1–2 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and the edges caramelize.
While grilling, heat the remaining marinade liquid in a microwave-safe bowl for 90 seconds, or until it bubbles and thickens into a syrup.
Transfer grilled pineapple to a platter and drizzle with the warm syrup before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (includes marinating time)
Servings: 8 spears
Calories: 84 kcal per spear

Variations

Spicy twist: Add more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Cinnamon sugar: Swap cayenne for cinnamon for a warm, dessert-like version.
Coconut flavor: Mix in a tablespoon of coconut milk into the marinade for a tropical touch.
Lime zest: Add fresh lime zest to the marinade for a bright citrus punch.
Skewers: Cut pineapple into chunks and grill them on skewers for easy serving.
Alcohol-infused: Add a splash of dark rum to the marinade for an adult-friendly twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pineapple in a microwave-safe dish for 30–45 seconds or reheat on a grill pan over medium heat until warmed through. The syrup can be stored separately and warmed before serving.

FAQs

How ripe should the pineapple be for grilling?

A ripe but firm pineapple is best. It should have a sweet aroma and slight give when squeezed without being mushy.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Fresh is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but thick slices of canned pineapple rings can work in a pinch.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick from the cayenne, but it’s not overly spicy. You can adjust the amount to suit your preference.

Can I cook this without a grill?

Yes, a grill pan or even a regular skillet will work. You won’t get the smoky flavor, but the caramelization will still be delicious.

What can I serve with grilled pineapple?

It pairs well with grilled meats like chicken or pork, or as a dessert with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the pineapple overnight and grill it just before serving.

Is there a sugar-free version of this?

You can try using a brown sugar substitute that’s suitable for grilling, but flavor and texture might differ slightly.

Can I freeze grilled pineapple?

It’s not ideal, as the texture can become mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

What other fruits can I grill using this method?

Peaches, mango, and watermelon can be grilled with similar marinades for a sweet and smoky treat.

Can I make this on an outdoor BBQ grill?

Absolutely. Just make sure to oil the grates well to prevent sticking and watch closely to avoid burning.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is a flavorful, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sweet, spicy, and smoky notes, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you serve it as a side, snack, or dessert. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to bring a touch of tropical flair to their meals.