Grilled Pineapple Recipe

Brazilian Grilled Pineapple is a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish or dessert that brings the vibrant flavors of a churrascaria right to your grill. Coated in a sweet blend of brown sugar and cinnamon, then charred to caramelized perfection, these pineapple wedges are juicy, fragrant, and lightly spiced. Whether served alongside steak or topped with a scoop of ice cream, this recipe is a tropical crowd-pleaser that’s always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Just 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes on the grill.

• Naturally sweet: The grilling enhances the pineapple’s natural sugars.

• Versatile: Works as a dessert, side dish, or even a fun BBQ appetizer.

• Only 3 ingredients: You probably already have everything you need.

• Perfect for summer: Light, fresh, and great for outdoor grilling.

• Customizable: Add spices or toppings to match your taste.

• Vegan and gluten-free: No adjustments needed.

• Kid-friendly: Sweet and soft with no artificial ingredients.

• Inspired by Brazilian steakhouses: Recreate that famous flavor at home.

• Pairs with everything: Serve with grilled meats or over ice cream.

Ingredients

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

• Brown sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Pineapple – peeled, cored, and cut into 6 wedges

Directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the coating by whisking brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl.

3. Coat the pineapple by placing the wedges in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Add the cinnamon-sugar mixture and toss or shake to evenly coat each piece.

4. Grill the pineapple for 3 to 5 minutes per side, turning occasionally until the sugar caramelizes and grill marks appear.

5. Serve immediately, as a side or topped with ice cream for dessert.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 wedges
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add vanilla: Mix in a teaspoon of vanilla extract with the sugar for extra aroma.

• Add heat: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a spicy twist.

• Try ginger: A touch of ground ginger adds warmth and depth.

• Use honey or maple syrup: Drizzle on top before or after grilling.

• Oven-baked option: Bake pineapple in a glass dish at 350°F for 15–20 minutes instead of grilling.

• Smoked version: Smoke pineapple at low heat with cherry or apple wood for a deeper flavor.

• Panini press method: If you don’t have a grill, caramelize on an indoor grill press.

• Top with coconut flakes: For a tropical finish.

• Serve with rum sauce: Add a boozy kick for an adult dessert.

• Fruit swap: Use this method with mango, peach, or banana slices.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm briefly in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

• Freezing not recommended, as texture will become mushy when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple?

Fresh pineapple is best for grilling due to its firmer texture, but thick-cut canned rings can work in a pinch. Just be sure to pat them dry first.

What type of brown sugar should I use?

Either light or dark brown sugar works. Dark brown sugar will give a richer, molasses-like flavor.

How ripe should the pineapple be?

Use a ripe but still firm pineapple so it holds its shape on the grill and doesn’t turn mushy.

Do I need to use a grill?

No. You can bake, broil, or sear the pineapple on a stovetop grill pan or panini press.

Can I marinate the pineapple ahead of time?

Yes, you can coat the pineapple and let it sit for 1–2 hours in the fridge before grilling to deepen the flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, all ingredients are plant-based and dairy-free.

Can I serve this cold?

You can, but it tastes best warm when the sugar is still gooey and the flavors are more vibrant.

What can I serve this with?

Try it with grilled steak, kabobs, BBQ chicken, or as a dessert with vanilla ice cream.

Can I add alcohol to the recipe?

Yes, a splash of rum or bourbon can be added to the sugar mix for a grown-up twist.

How do I keep the sugar mixture from burning?

Grill over medium heat and watch closely. Turning the pineapple regularly prevents burning and helps caramelize evenly.

Conclusion

Brazilian Grilled Pineapple is an easy and impressive dish that takes just minutes to prepare but delivers big flavor. Whether you’re recreating the flavors of a Brazilian steakhouse or simply looking to spice up your next barbecue, this caramelized tropical treat is a guaranteed hit. Sweet, smoky, and bursting with spice, it’s the perfect side or dessert for summer dining.