18-Minute Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey Heaven

There’s something magical about hearing pineapple sizzle on a hot grill – that first whiff of caramelizing sugars always takes me back to my cousin’s backyard luau. I’d never grilled fruit before, and honestly? I thought it sounded weird. But when those golden spears came off the flames dripping with honey and cinnamon sugar, I became a believer. Now it’s my go-to dessert when I need something impressive that takes less time than preheating the oven.

This grilled pineapple recipe turns basic ingredients into pure tropical sunshine in about 18 minutes flat. The high heat transforms the fruit’s natural sugars into this incredible sweet-and-smoky combo that makes people think you’ve been grilling for decades. I love how the cinnamon sugar melts into those beautiful grill marks, creating this crackly crust that gives way to juicy warmth underneath. Last Fourth of July, I served these alongside burgers and watched my niece sneak three servings when she thought no one was looking – that’s how addictive this is.

What makes this version special? No fancy techniques or obscure ingredients. Just fresh pineapple meeting fire, kissed with the warm spice of cinnamon and the floral sweetness of honey. It’s vegan-friendly without trying to be, and adaptable enough for everything from fancy dinner parties to “I-need-dessert-now” weeknights. Trust me – once you try fruit off the grill, you’ll never look at pineapple rings the same way again.

Ingredients for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey

Let’s break down what you’ll need – this list is so simple you might already have everything in your pantry right now:

• 1 whole pineapple (peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch rings or spears) – trust me, fresh makes all the difference here
• 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (pack that measuring cup like you’re building a sandcastle!)
• 1/4 cup honey – local if you’ve got it, but any kind works
• 1 tbsp neutral oil (avocado or vegetable oil are my go-tos for high heat)
• Lime zest (optional, but adds that fancy brunch vibe)

Pro tip: If you’re out of cinnamon sugar, mix 1 tbsp cinnamon with 1/4 cup sugar – I’ve done this mid-recipe panic more times than I’ll admit!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey

Let me count the ways this recipe’s a keeper: First, it’s ready before your grill finishes preheating – 18 minutes flat! Second, it’s sneakily vegan (just swap honey for agave if needed) without tasting like a “health food.” Third? The ingredient list is shorter than my grocery receipt on a good day. I’ve served this to picky kids, keto friends nibbling just one bite, and my dessert-snob aunt who asked for thirds. The smoky-sweet combo works at beach cookouts and Tuesday nights when you’re eating straight off the grill rack. Plus, that crackly cinnamon crust? Pure magic.

Equipment for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey

You’ll need just a few trusty tools – I bet half are already in your kitchen! Grab your grill (charcoal gives that smoky depth, but gas works in a pinch), sturdy tongs for flipping without casualties, and a basting brush for that light oil kiss. A sharp chef’s knife makes quick work of the pineapple. No backyard? I’ve used a stovetop grill pan during rainstorms – still gets those gorgeous char lines!

How to Prepare Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey

Let’s turn that pineapple into golden, sticky magic! I’ve burned a few batches figuring this out (RIP, 2019 July 4th pineapple), so follow these steps for foolproof results every time:

Step 1: Prep the Pineapple

Grab your sharpest knife – we’re avoiding the “crushed pineapple” look. Slice off the crown, then stand the pineapple upright to remove the peel in downward strips. Quarter it lengthwise and cut out the tough core (my dog always gets those scraps as a treat). Slice into 1-inch spears or rings – thickness matters here! Too thin, and they’ll turn to mush; too thick, and the center stays raw.

Step 2: Grill to Caramelized Perfection

Fire up that grill to medium-high – you should barely hold your hand 4 inches above for 2 seconds. Oil those grates like you’re painting a masterpiece (cold grates = sticky disaster). Lay pineapple in a single layer – no overlapping! Listen for that sizzle when it hits the heat. Grill 3-4 minutes per side until you see tiger stripes forming. Resist flipping early – those marks mean flavor!

Step 3: Add Toppings & Serve

Timing is everything! Sprinkle cinnamon sugar the second the pineapple comes off the grill – the residual heat makes it melt into a glittery crust. Drizzle honey in zigzags (my inner artist demands it) and hit it with lime zest if you’re feeling fancy. Serve immediately – this isn’t a “keep warm” situation. The honey will pool beautifully on plates, so have bread nearby for dipping. Trust me.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Let’s talk pineapple first – fresh is non-negotiable here. I tried canned once during a midnight craving and ended up with sad, mushy triangles. The texture just can’t handle the grill’s heat. If you’re stuck with pre-cut, pat it bone-dry first. For cinnamon sugar, I often mix my own using 1 tbsp cinnamon per 1/4 cup coconut sugar when I’m out of the pre-made stuff (bonus: it’s less gritty!). Vegan friends? Swap honey for agave – just know it’ll taste slightly more floral. Oil-wise, any neutral high-smoke-point oil works. I’ve used grapeseed in a pinch, but avocado’s my MVP. Pro tip: Skip the olive oil unless you want a savory twist!

Tips for Perfect Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey

Three secrets I’ve learned the sticky way: Pat pineapple slices dry – moisture kills those gorgeous grill marks. Test heat by hovering your hand 4 inches above; if you can’t stand it for 3 seconds, it’s perfect. Use pineapples that smell sweet at the base – underripe ones won’t caramelize. And never skip the oil! I once tried being “healthier” and lost half my batch to the grill gods. A quick brush keeps everything sliding off nicely.

Variations for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey

Want to play mad scientist with your pineapple? Here’s my favorite ways to riff on this recipe: Toss chili powder into the cinnamon sugar for a sweet-heat combo that’ll make your taste buds dance – just a 1/2 tsp does the trick. Swap honey for a rum glaze (2 tbsp rum + 1/4 cup brown sugar simmered until syrupy) at adult-only BBQs. Or shower it with toasted coconut flakes for crunch – I throw mine on the grill’s cooler side while the pineapple cooks. The tropical upgrade makes you feel like you’re vacationing in Hawaii, even if you’re just on your balcony!

Serving Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey

This isn’t just dessert – it’s your secret weapon for leveling up any meal. I’ve piled these golden spears over vanilla bean ice cream (the melt-y swirls are everything), stirred warm chunks into Greek yogurt for breakfast, and even paired them with smoky ribs at BBQs. Last brunch, I layered them on pancakes and watched my guests lose their minds. The sweet-tangy combo cuts through rich meats beautifully – try it alongside grilled chicken skewers or pork chops. Rain or shine, these pineapple bites turn paper plates into a tropical feast.

Storing & Reheating Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey

Let’s be real – leftovers rarely happen with this recipe. But if you’ve somehow resisted eating it all, stash slices in an airtight container (I’m obsessed with my glass Snapware) for up to 2 days. The fridge will make the honey harden, but don’t panic! Toss pieces in a dry skillet over medium heat – that sizzle brings back the caramelized magic better than microwaving ever could. Tried freezing once during my “meal prep era” – ended up with pineapple-flavored slush perfect for smoothies but tragic as dessert. Pro tip: If the cinnamon sugar coating looks dull after chilling, sprinkle a fresh pinch before reheating. It’ll taste like it just came off the grill!

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey FAQs

Can I Use Canned Pineapple for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey?

Technically yes, but you’ll miss that perfect caramelized crunch! Canned pineapple’s extra moisture turns it mushy on the grill – trust me, I learned this during a midnight snack disaster. Fresh pineapple holds its shape better and gives you those gorgeous charred edges we’re after.

Is Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey Vegan?

Absolutely! Just swap honey for agave syrup – it’s what I do when my vegan crew comes over. The flavor’s slightly different but still delicious. Bonus: coconut sugar works great in the cinnamon mix too!

Can I Substitute Maple Syrup for Honey?

Go for it! Maple gives a cozy autumn twist. Use half the amount at first – it’s sweeter than honey. Drizzle warm syrup right before serving for bonus flavor points. Your pancakes will get jealous!

Nutritional Information for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar & Honey

Let’s talk numbers – this tropical treat’s way kinder to your waistline than most desserts! Each serving (about 1/4 of the pineapple) clocks in around 150 calories with 38g carbs and 25g natural sugars. You’re getting 1g protein and 2g fiber too – basically a fruit salad with benefits. The sugar content sounds high, but remember, it’s mostly from the pineapple and honey, not added junk. My vegan version with agave runs slightly lower, while a heavy hand with cinnamon sugar might nudge it up. These estimates are for guidance – your actual numbers will dance a bit based on pineapple size and how enthusiastically you drizzle!

(Seriously though – rate this recipe below if you tried it! I wanna hear your caramelization victories.)