This honey glazed grilled pineapple is a sweet treat that’s super easy to make! The warm, caramelized edges bring out the juicy flavor, making it a perfect summer snack or dessert.
Honestly, who knew fruit could taste like heaven? I often grill a few extra pieces to enjoy on my pancakes the next morning. So tasty and refreshing! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Use a ripe pineapple for the best flavor and sweetness. Look for a pineapple with a sweet smell at the base and slightly soft to the touch. If you can’t find fresh pineapple, canned pineapples can work, but they won’t have the same texture or flavor.
Honey: Honey gives that beautiful glaze and sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup or agave syrup is a great substitute. I love using local honey for extra flavor.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavor. However, bottled lime juice can work in a pinch. You might also try using lemon juice for a slightly different tang.
Cinnamon: This is optional but adds a warm flavor that complements the pineapple. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it. You could also experiment with other spices, like nutmeg or ginger, for a unique twist.
Fresh mint: Mint leaves make a lovely garnish and add freshness. If you don’t have mint, you could use basil or even omit the garnish altogether.
How Do You Prepare Pineapple for Grilling?
Properly cutting the pineapple is crucial for grilling. It can seem tricky, but here’s how to do it easily:
- Stand the pineapple upright and slice off the top and bottom.
- Slice off the outer skin in strips, following the shape of the fruit. Don’t worry if some eyes remain; you can cut those out later.
- Cut the pineapple into thick slices, about 1 inch each.
- Use a small round cookie cutter or a knife to remove the core from each slice, making perfect pineapple rings.
Taking your time with this step ensures your pineapple rings are even and grill beautifully, giving you those nice char marks!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Cooking spray or coconut oil (for grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 8 minutes to grill, for a total of around 23 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a summer barbecue or a sweet dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, which should be about 350°F to 400°F. This will ensure a nice, even cook on your pineapple.
2. Cut the Pineapple:
Carefully place your pineapple on a cutting board. Slice off the top and bottom to create flat surfaces. Stand the pineapple up and carefully cut away the outer skin. Don’t forget to remove any little brown “eyes” left behind!
3. Slice and Core the Pineapple:
Cut the pineapple into 1-inch thick rings. You can use a knife or a cookie cutter to remove the hard core from each slice, making lovely rings perfect for grilling.
4. Make the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, lime juice, and cinnamon (if you’re using it). Stir well until it’s nicely combined and set aside.
5. Prep the Grill Grates:
To prevent sticking, lightly spray the grill grates with cooking spray or brush them with a bit of coconut oil. This small step goes a long way!
6. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple rings on the grill. Use a brush to generously coat one side with the honey glaze. Don’t be shy with it; you want that flavor!
7. Flip and Grill Again:
Grill the rings for about 3-4 minutes, or until you see nice grill marks. Then, brush the other side with the honey glaze and flip the rings over. Grill for another 3-4 minutes until the pineapple is tender and caramelized.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. Garnish your sweet creation with fresh mint leaves and a drizzle of any remaining honey glaze. Enjoy your refreshing honey glazed grilled pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple rings if necessary. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture on the grill, which can prevent caramelization.
How to Adjust the Sweetness Level?
If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of honey by half or substitute with agave syrup or maple syrup. You can also add a touch of salt to enhance the flavors without adding more sweetness!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them again, simply reheat on a grill or in a skillet until warmed through, or serve them cold in a fruit salad!
Can I Make the Honey Glaze in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly in the refrigerator.
