Grilled Pineapple Skewers Recipe

Of all the summer traditions our family has, the annual neighborhood barbecue is my absolute favorite. The air fills with the savory scent of sizzling burgers and the sound of kids laughing, but for me, the true magic happens when dessert hits the grill. For years, I stuck to the classics, but one sunny afternoon, I decided to experiment with a pineapple that was sitting on my counter, perfectly ripe and begging to be used. I whipped up a simple brown sugar and cinnamon glaze, skewered the golden chunks, and threw them on the grill. The result was nothing short of a revelation. The pineapple transformed, its natural sugars caramelizing into a deep, rich sweetness, with a smoky char from the grill and a warm hint of spice. The skewers disappeared in minutes, with both kids and adults coming back for seconds, their faces lit with surprise and delight. Since that day, these Grilled Pineapple Skewers have become my signature barbecue dish, the one recipe everyone asks for. They are deceptively simple, yet deliver a “wow” factor that makes any gathering feel a little more special.

Ingredients

Here is the simple list of ingredients you’ll need to create this show-stopping grilled dessert. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, turning a simple fruit into a caramelized masterpiece.

• 1 large, ripe pineapple: The star of the show. A fresh, ripe pineapple will be sweet, juicy, and have the perfect firm texture for grilling.
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: This is the key to a gorgeous, sweet caramelization on the grill.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic spice that pairs beautifully with the tropical flavor of pineapple.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Helps the sugar mixture adhere to the pineapple and promotes a rich, golden-brown color and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A secret weapon that adds a layer of fragrant depth to the glaze.
• A pinch of salt: Just a small amount is needed to balance the sweetness and make all the other flavors pop.
• 8-10 wooden or metal skewers: To hold the pineapple chunks. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water first.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to ensure your pineapple skewers are perfectly grilled, with beautiful char marks and an irresistible caramelized glaze. The process is straightforward, but paying attention to the details will yield the best results.

1. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and the pinch of salt. Whisk them together to ensure the cinnamon and salt are evenly distributed throughout the sugar. Pour in the melted butter and the vanilla extract. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, syrupy glaze. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Set this bowl aside for now.
2. Prepare the Pineapple: If you are using wooden skewers, now is the time to place them in a shallow dish filled with water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This crucial step prevents them from burning to a crisp on the hot grill.
3. Cut the Pineapple: Lay the pineapple on its side on a sturdy cutting board. Using a large, sharp chef’s knife, carefully slice off the top crown and the bottom base. Stand the pineapple upright on the flat bottom. Carefully slice downwards along the curves of the pineapple to remove the tough outer skin. Try to remove as little of the sweet flesh as possible. Once the skin is removed, you will see small brown “eyes” remaining. You can remove these with the tip of a paring knife or by making shallow, diagonal cuts to remove them in rows. Now, slice the pineapple in half from top to bottom. Lay each half flat and slice it in half again, leaving you with four long wedges. Slice off the tough, fibrous core from the inner edge of each wedge and discard it. Finally, cut the remaining pineapple flesh into uniform, 1 to 1.5-inch chunks. Uniformity is key for even grilling.
4. Marinate the Pineapple: Add all the pineapple chunks to the bowl with the brown sugar glaze. Use a spatula or your hands to gently toss the pineapple, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated in the delicious mixture. Let the pineapple marinate for at least 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fruit. For an even deeper flavor, you can cover and refrigerate it for up to an hour.
5. Skewer the Pineapple: Once marinated, thread the pineapple chunks onto your soaked wooden or metal skewers. You can fit about 4-5 chunks per skewer, depending on their size. Leave a little space at the top and bottom of each skewer to make them easy to handle on the grill. Reserve any leftover glaze in the bowl for basting later.
6. Preheat and Clean the Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat, around 375-450°F (190-230°C). It’s important that the grill is hot enough to create those beautiful sear marks quickly, which prevents the pineapple from getting mushy. Once hot, use a grill brush to clean the grates thoroughly. A clean grill is essential to prevent sticking. Lightly oil the grates with a high-smoke-point oil (like canola or vegetable oil) by wiping them with a folded paper towel dipped in oil, held with long tongs.
7. Grill the Skewers: Place the pineapple skewers directly on the hot, oiled grates. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side. You are looking for deep, caramelized grill marks and for the pineapple to become tender and slightly translucent. As you turn the skewers, use a basting brush to apply some of the reserved glaze from the bowl onto the pineapple. This will add another layer of flavor and help create a sticky, glossy finish.
8. Serve Immediately: Once all sides of the pineapple are beautifully charred and caramelized, remove the skewers from the grill using tongs. Arrange them on a platter and serve them warm. Be careful, as the sugar glaze will be very hot!

Nutrition Facts

While this is a sweet treat, it’s rooted in fruit and offers some nutritional benefits. The values below are an approximation for one skewer, assuming the recipe yields 8 skewers.

• Servings: 8 Skewers
• Calories per serving: Approximately 145 kcal. A relatively light dessert option compared to cake or pie.
• Vitamin C: Pineapple is an excellent source of this powerful antioxidant, which is crucial for immune system health and skin vitality.
• Manganese: This fruit is rich in manganese, a trace mineral essential for bone health, metabolism, and antioxidant defense.
• Dietary Fiber: Pineapple provides dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps promote a feeling of fullness.
• Carbohydrates: The primary source of energy in this recipe, coming from both the natural fruit sugars and the added brown sugar.

Preparation Time

Planning your cooking timeline is easy with this simple breakdown. Most of the time is hands-off marinating, making it a great recipe for entertaining.

• Active Prep Time: 15 minutes. This includes mixing the glaze and cutting the pineapple. If you are a pro at cutting pineapples, this might even be quicker!
• Marinating Time: 20-30 minutes. This is the minimum time needed for the flavors to meld. You can extend this for a more intense taste.
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes. This is the time the skewers will spend on the grill, depending on the heat of your grill and how charred you like your pineapple.
• Total Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes from start to finish.

How to Serve

These Grilled Pineapple Skewers are incredibly versatile. They can be a stunning dessert, a unique side dish, or an ingredient in another creation. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve them:

• Classic Dessert Style:
  • With Ice Cream: The ultimate pairing. Serve a warm skewer alongside a scoop of high-quality vanilla bean or coconut ice cream. The contrast between the hot, smoky pineapple and the cold, creamy ice cream is heavenly.
  • With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option) adds a light, airy texture that complements the dense, juicy fruit.
  • With Greek Yogurt: For a healthier twist, serve with a side of tangy plain or vanilla Greek yogurt. Drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
• As a Savory Side Dish:
  • With Grilled Meats: The sweet and tangy flavor of the pineapple cuts through the richness of savory grilled meats perfectly. It’s an exceptional side for grilled pork chops, teriyaki chicken, or glazed ribs.
  • With Seafood: Pair it with grilled shrimp or a flaky white fish like mahi-mahi. The tropical notes of the pineapple enhance the fresh flavors of the sea.
• In Other Dishes:
  • As a Topping: Remove the pineapple from the skewers, give it a rough chop, and use it as a topping for tacos (especially Al Pastor style), burgers, or pulled pork sandwiches.
  • In a Salad: Let the grilled pineapple cool slightly, chop it up, and toss it into a summer salad with mixed greens, red onion, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a sweet and smoky element.
  • For Cocktails: Muddle a few chunks of the grilled pineapple in a shaker to create an incredible base for a smoky margarita, a pineapple mojito, or a unique twist on a piña colada.
• Presentation and Garnish:
  • Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle over the top for a nutty crunch and extra tropical flavor.
  • Fresh Mint or Cilantro: A few fresh leaves provide a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous contrast.
  • A Drizzle of Rum: For an adults-only version, drizzle a tablespoon of dark rum over the skewers right as they come off the grill. The heat will burn off some alcohol while leaving a wonderful, complex flavor.

Additional Tips

To elevate your grilled pineapple game from good to unforgettable, keep these pro tips in mind.

1. Don’t Skip Soaking the Skewers: This might seem like a small, skippable step, but it’s vital if you’re using wooden or bamboo skewers. A 30-minute soak prevents them from catching fire and burning away on the grill, which would not only ruin the presentation but could also drop your precious pineapple into the flames.
2. Master Your Grill Heat: The key to perfect grilled pineapple is medium-high heat. If the grill is too hot, the brown sugar glaze will burn before the pineapple has a chance to cook through and become tender. If the heat is too low, the pineapple will slowly cook and release its juices, becoming mushy instead of achieving those beautiful, caramelized char marks.
3. Choose the Perfect Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is crucial for the best flavor. Look for a pineapple that has a vibrant golden-yellow color, green leaves, and a firm shell that gives slightly when pressed. The most important test is the smell: a ripe pineapple should have a distinctly sweet, fragrant aroma at its base. Avoid pineapples with soft spots, a fermented smell, or dried-out leaves.
4. Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is a classic pairing, don’t be afraid to customize the glaze. A pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder can add a smoky heat, ground ginger can provide a zesty kick, and a dash of allspice or nutmeg can lend a more complex, autumnal warmth.
5. No Grill? No Problem!: You can still enjoy this delicious recipe without an outdoor grill. A cast-iron grill pan on the stovetop works wonderfully to create char marks. Alternatively, you can use your oven’s broiler. Arrange the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet, place them a few inches from the broiler element, and broil for 2-4 minutes per side, watching them carefully to prevent burning.
6. Make-Ahead Strategy for Parties: To save time when entertaining, you can do most of the prep in advance. The pineapple can be cut and the glaze can be mixed up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to grill, simply toss the pineapple in the glaze, let it marinate for 20 minutes, and skewer it.
7. Don’t Waste the Pineapple Core: The tough, fibrous core that you cut out is still packed with flavor. Don’t throw it away! You can use it to infuse water for a refreshing drink, add it to a smoothie for extra fiber, or boil it with some ginger and sugar to create a simple and delicious pineapple syrup for cocktails or drizzling over pancakes.
8. Watch for Flare-Ups: The sugar-based glaze can drip onto the hot coals or burners, which can cause flare-ups. This is normal, but it’s important to be watchful. Keep a clean area of the grill available to move the skewers to if a flare-up gets too intense. Never leave the grill unattended while the skewers are cooking.

FAQ Section

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making grilled pineapple skewers.

1. Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple chunks in a pinch, but fresh is highly recommended for the best texture and flavor. If using canned, opt for chunks packed in 100% juice, not heavy syrup. Drain them very well and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels before marinating. Canned pineapple is softer and may not hold up on the skewers as well as fresh, and it won’t have the same vibrant, tangy taste.

2. What are the best skewers to use, metal or wood?
Both work well, but they have different advantages. Metal skewers are reusable, durable, and conduct heat, which can help cook the inside of the pineapple chunks more evenly. Wooden or bamboo skewers are inexpensive and have a classic look, but they must be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning on the grill.

3. How do I know when the grilled pineapple is perfectly done?
You’re looking for a combination of visual cues. The pineapple should be tender when pierced with a fork. You should see distinct, dark brown or even black grill marks on all sides. The glaze should have melted and caramelized, creating a glossy, slightly sticky coating on the surface of the fruit. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side on a medium-high grill.

4. Can I make these skewers with other fruits?
Absolutely! This recipe is a great template for other firm fruits. Peaches, nectarines, plums (all halved and pitted), and firm mangoes are excellent choices. You may need to adjust the grilling time slightly, as softer fruits will cook faster. This glaze is also delicious on grilled bananas (leave them in their peel, sliced lengthwise).

5. How do I store leftover grilled pineapple?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), remove the pineapple from the skewers and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s delicious cold, chopped into yogurt or a salad. You can also gently reheat it in a pan or in the microwave, but it will be softer than when it was freshly grilled.

6. Why did my pineapple stick to the grill grates?
Sticking is usually caused by one of three things: the grill wasn’t hot enough, the grates weren’t clean, or the grates weren’t oiled. To prevent this, make sure your grill is fully preheated to medium-high, scrub the grates clean with a brush before you start, and then apply a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil to the grates right before you place the skewers down.

7. Is this Grilled Pineapple Skewers recipe considered healthy?
It’s a “healthier” dessert option. The base of the recipe is fruit, which is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, it does contain added sugar and butter. You can make it healthier by reducing the amount of brown sugar or substituting it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey. For the lightest version, you can grill the pineapple with just a sprinkle of cinnamon and no glaze at all—it will still be delicious as the grill’s heat caramelizes the fruit’s natural sugars.

8. Can I make this recipe without any sugar?
Yes, you can. If you’re avoiding added sugar, you can simply grill the pineapple plain. The natural sugars within the ripe fruit will still caramelize on the hot grates, creating a wonderfully sweet and smoky flavor. To add flavor without sugar, you can marinate the pineapple chunks in a mix of lime juice, cinnamon, and a little vanilla before grilling. It will be less of a glazed “dessert” and more of a fresh, vibrant grilled fruit side.

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