Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple
Every now and then, a simple side dish surprises you with just how magical it can be. That’s exactly what happened the first time I made this Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple. It all started on a weekend when I was trying to shake things up at our family barbecue. I had a fresh pineapple on the counter, some brown sugar in the pantry, and a feeling that something sweet and smoky would be the perfect pairing with our grilled chicken. The result? Pure summer joy on a plate.
As soon as the pineapple hit the grill and those caramelized, golden grill marks started to appear, I knew this would become a staple. The smell alone brought everyone out of the house and into the backyard, and when we finally sat down to eat, there wasn’t a slice left. Even my picky eater went back for seconds—and then thirds! The sweet brown sugar glaze mixed with a subtle kick of cayenne and the warmth of vanilla gives the pineapple a flavor that’s totally irresistible.
Now, every time we grill, this pineapple is requested without fail. It works beautifully with chicken, pork, or even just as a snack on its own. Whether you’re hosting guests or looking for something special to jazz up dinner, this is the kind of recipe that feels a little fancy but couldn’t be easier to make. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a part of your own family traditions.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Fresh pineapple is definitely best for grilling—it holds its shape and gives you that juicy, caramelized bite. Canned pineapple is too soft and may fall apart on the grill.
What can I serve this with?
It’s delicious with grilled chicken, pork chops, ribs, or even shrimp. For a vegetarian twist, try it with grilled halloumi or over a grain bowl.
Is it spicy?
Not overly! The cayenne adds just a touch of warmth. If you’re serving kids or prefer it mild, you can skip it altogether or use less.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can slice and marinate the pineapple a few hours in advance, but grill it fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Do I need an outdoor grill?
Not at all! A grill pan on the stove works beautifully if the weather isn’t cooperating.
What You Need to Make Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple
1 whole fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into spears
¼ cup light brown sugar
½ tsp ground cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: a drizzle of honey for extra shine (after grilling)
Special Equipment:
Grill or stovetop grill pan
Tongs for flipping
Basting brush (optional but helpful)
How to Make Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple
Prepare the pineapple: Slice your fresh pineapple into long spears or rings, depending on preference. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
Make the glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir until it forms a syrupy mixture.
Coat the pineapple: Use a brush or your hands to evenly coat each pineapple spear with the brown sugar mixture. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Heat the grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the pineapple: Place the spears directly on the grill. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the sugar starts to caramelize.
Serve hot: Enjoy immediately, optionally drizzled with a little honey for extra shine and sweetness. Pairs perfectly with chicken, pork, or even vanilla ice cream for dessert!
Tips for Making the Best Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple
Use a ripe but firm pineapple. It should be fragrant and golden, but not too soft or juicy, which can cause it to break apart on the grill.
Don’t overcrowd the grill. Give each piece enough space to caramelize properly.
Add a tropical twist. A splash of rum or coconut extract in the glaze can be a fun variation.
Avoid burning the sugar. Watch closely and flip gently—sugar burns quickly if left unattended.
Leftovers? Dice them up and toss into a summer salad or serve over yogurt the next day.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Made this with grilled pork chops and it totally stole the show! The sweet heat combo is perfect.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Really tasty, but I think I’ll cut back on the cayenne next time for the kids. Still a hit though!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This has become a staple at our family cookouts. Everyone asks for the recipe—so easy and so good!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Used canned pineapple because that’s all I had—flavor was great, but they didn’t hold up well on the grill. Will use fresh next time.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I served this with vanilla ice cream for dessert and WOW. Such a simple idea but absolutely delicious.”
Printable Recipe
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Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple
Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is the ultimate sweet-and-savory summer side! Juicy pineapple spears are glazed with brown sugar, vanilla, and a touch of cayenne, then grilled to caramelized perfection. Perfect alongside chicken, pork, or even as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream. This easy, crowd-pleasing recipe is ready in under 20 minutes and brings tropical flavor to any BBQ or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 whole fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into spears
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- ½ tsp ground cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: a drizzle of honey for extra shine (after grilling)
- Special Equipment:
- Grill or stovetop grill pan
- Tongs for flipping
- Basting brush (optional but helpful)
Instructions
- Prepare the pineapple: Slice your fresh pineapple into long spears or rings, depending on preference. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir until it forms a syrupy mixture.
- Coat the pineapple: Use a brush or your hands to evenly coat each pineapple spear with the brown sugar mixture. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Heat the grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the pineapple: Place the spears directly on the grill. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the sugar starts to caramelize.
- Serve hot: Enjoy immediately, optionally drizzled with a little honey for extra shine and sweetness. Pairs perfectly with chicken, pork, or even vanilla ice cream for dessert!
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