🍍🍯 Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple
Sweet, caramelized, and lightly spicy — the perfect summer treat!
Grilled pineapple is a simple yet show-stopping dessert or side dish that pairs sweetness with a hint of spice. This Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple recipe elevates fresh pineapple spears with brown sugar, cayenne, and vanilla, creating a caramelized, tropical flavor that’s perfect for summer cookouts, BBQs, or a cozy indoor treat.
The grill brings out the natural sweetness of pineapple, while brown sugar adds a rich caramelized crust. A subtle hint of cayenne provides just a whisper of warmth, making these pineapples irresistible, juicy, and slightly decadent. They’re perfect on their own, drizzled with honey, or served with ice cream or yogurt.
🛒 Ingredients
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1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 spears 🍍
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¼ cup light brown sugar 🟤
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¼ tsp cayenne pepper 🌶️
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1 tsp vanilla extract 🌿
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⅛ tsp kosher salt 🧂
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Vegetable oil spray for the grill 🛢️
Optional toppings:
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Toasted coconut
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Vanilla ice cream
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Fresh mint leaves
👩🍳 How to Make Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple – 7 Directions
1. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F / 190–200°C).
Lightly spray the grill grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cayenne pepper, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Coat the Pineapple Spears
Brush or sprinkle the pineapple spears generously with the brown sugar mixture.
Ensure all sides are coated for maximum caramelization and flavor.
4. Grill the Pineapple
Place the pineapple spears directly on the preheated grill.
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the sugar caramelizes.
Turn carefully to prevent the spears from sticking or breaking.
5. Optional Glaze
For extra sweetness, brush with a little additional brown sugar or drizzle honey while grilling.
This helps build a deeper caramelized crust.
6. Remove and Rest
Once grilled, remove pineapple spears from the grill.
Let them rest for 2–3 minutes to cool slightly and allow the caramelized sugar to set.
7. Serve
Serve warm as-is, or pair with:
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Vanilla ice cream for a tropical dessert
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Greek yogurt for a healthy snack
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Toasted coconut or fresh mint for garnish