Honey glazed grilled pineapple is a sweet treat that’s perfect for summer barbecues! The juicy fruit caramelizes on the grill, creating a deliciously sticky and flavorful layer.
Honestly, it’s like sunshine on a plate! I love serving it with ice cream for a fun twist. Plus, it’s super easy—just grill, glaze, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Use a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. Look for one that’s slightly soft to the touch and has a sweet smell at the base. If you’re short on time, canned pineapple can work, but fresh has a much better texture and taste.
Honey: Honey adds a lovely sweetness. If you’re looking for a substitute, agave syrup or maple syrup are great alternatives. They will change the flavor slightly, but still delicious!
Lime Juice: This adds brightness to the dish. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice can be used, though fresh is always best for flavor.
Cinnamon: Using ground cinnamon is totally optional but adds a warm, cozy taste. If you don’t have it, try a pinch of nutmeg or omit it altogether for a more straightforward flavor.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint is a lovely garnish. If you can’t find mint, try basil or just skip it. The dish will still taste fantastic!
How Do I Get Perfect Grill Marks on My Pineapple?
Grilling pineapple can seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll impress everyone with your grill marks. The key is the heat and timing!
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. This ensures the pineapple cooks evenly and gets those beautiful charred lines.
- Brush the honey glaze on generously. A good amount of glaze helps prevent sticking and adds caramelization.
- Once on the grill, don’t move the pineapple too soon. Let it sit for 3-4 minutes before flipping. This will help achieve those perfect marks.
Keep an eye on it—it can burn quickly, so flip only when the sides show nice grill marks. Enjoy your perfectly grilled pineapple!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pineapple and Glaze:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious honey glazed grilled pineapple takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to grill. You’ll spend a quick few minutes cutting the pineapple and mixing the glaze, and then just grill it up for that perfect caramelized flavor. A simple yet delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your pineapple cooks evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks!
2. Cut the Pineapple:
Next, slice the ripe pineapple into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Make sure to remove the tough core from each slice to make it easier to eat. You want nice, even slices for grilling.
3. Make the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey and fresh lime juice until well combined. If you want to add a hint of spice, stir in the ground cinnamon for extra flavor. This glaze is what makes your pineapple sweet and sticky!
4. Brush on the Glaze:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat both sides of each pineapple slice with the honey glaze. Make sure every slice gets a nice coating to enhance that sweet flavor when grilled.
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the prepared pineapple slices directly on the grill. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until you see beautiful grill marks and the pineapple starts to caramelize. The sugars in the honey will help create that lovely, sweet crust.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple slices from the grill and let them cool slightly. They’ll be hot, so give them a moment! Serve them warm, and for an extra touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves if you like.
Enjoy your tasty honey glazed grilled pineapple as a perfect dessert or a refreshing side dish. It’s a delightful treat everyone will love!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use canned pineapple slices if that’s what you have. Make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture on the grill. Since canned pineapple is typically softer, reduce the cooking time to about 2-3 minutes per side to prevent them from falling apart.
What If I Don’t Have Honey?
If you’re out of honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. Just use the same amount as indicated in the recipe. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but the results will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or warm it on a grill pan for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Add Other Spices to the Glaze?
Absolutely! You can customize the glaze by adding spices like cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or nutmeg for a warm flavor. Just remember to start with small amounts and adjust to your taste. Experimenting can lead to some fantastic flavor combinations!
