Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat that’s easy to make. Just slice fresh pineapple, brush it with honey, and grill until it’s caramelized and warm!
It’s like a little island getaway on your plate! I love serving it with ice cream or yogurt for a fun dessert that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s so simple that anyone can make it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key for sweetness and juiciness. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple rings can work in a pinch, but they won’t have the same texture or fresh flavor.
Honey: Honey adds a rich sweetness. If you’re vegan, maple syrup can be a great substitute. It won’t taste quite the same, but it still will enhance the flavor nicely.
Butter/Coconut Oil: I love using melted coconut oil for a tropical twist, but if you’re not a fan, regular butter is wonderful too. You can also use a vegan butter if you’re looking to keep it plant-based.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon enhances the flavor. You could also try nutmeg or ginger for a different but tasty spin, though this will change the overall flavor profile.
Mint Leaves: While optional, fresh mint adds a refreshing touch. If mint isn’t available, you could use basil for an unexpected but tasty alternative!
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Pineapple?
Grilling pineapple is all about using the right heat and cook time. Here’s how to achieve that perfect caramelization:
- First, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat, which helps create those lovely grill marks.
- Brush the pineapple rings well with your honey mixture for even caramelization. Be generous!
- Place the pineapple rings carefully on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. Don’t move them too soon; wait until you see grill marks.
- After grilling, brush with any leftover honey mixture for added glaze and flavor.
Trust me, the caramelized edges are where all the goodness is! Let the pineapple cool slightly so it’s not too hot to enjoy.
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 8-10 minutes to grill the pineapple. So in just 20 minutes or so, you can enjoy a delightful warm treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important because you want the grill to be hot enough to caramelize the pineapple nicely.
2. Prepare the Honey Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the honey, melted butter (or coconut oil), ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well until everything is nicely blended together. This mixture will add a sweet and spicy glaze to the pineapple!
3. Brush the Pineapple Rings:
Take your pineapple rings and generously brush both sides with the honey mixture. Make sure to save a bit of the mixture for brushing them after grilling. This will enhance the flavor even more!
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple rings on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see beautiful grill marks and the pineapple starts to caramelize. This will give it a sweet, smoky flavor that’s absolutely delicious!
5. Finish with a Glaze:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and brush any remaining honey mixture over the top. This step adds an extra layer of sweetness and flavor!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Allow the pineapple to cool slightly, then add a few fresh mint leaves on top for a touch of color and freshness if you’d like. Serve warm as a delightful side dish or a sweet dessert, and enjoy the wonderful flavors!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead?
While fresh pineapple is best for grilling, you can use canned pineapple if that’s what you have. Choose pineapple rings packed in juice rather than syrup for a fresher taste. Drain them well and pat dry with paper towels to ensure they grill properly.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, place the rings on a hot grill or skillet for a minute or two to warm them up and regain that grilled flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan-friendly alternative. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, and you’ll still enjoy the delicious flavors!
What Other Seasonings Can I Add?
If you’re looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of lime juice to the honey mixture for some extra zing. You can also experiment with other spices like nutmeg or even a dash of rum for a tropical twist!
