Introduction to Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple Spears
If you’re looking for a warm-weather treat that’s both easy and show-stopping, these brown sugar grilled pineapple spears are the perfect dessert. With just a few pantry staples, you can transform fresh pineapple into a caramelized, juicy, and sweet side or dessert that pairs perfectly with BBQ or stands alone.
Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sugars, and when brushed with a buttery brown sugar glaze, the edges turn golden and slightly crisp while the inside stays tender and juicy. This method is popular in many tropical cuisines, and you can see variations of it in Hawaiian-style grilled fruits and Brazilian barbecue menus alike.
Perfect for cookouts, quick summer treats, or healthy-ish desserts, this recipe takes less than 10 minutes to prepare. For creative twists, serving tips, and sweet glaze variations, check out these grilled pineapple dessert ideas to take your spears to the next level.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These brown sugar grilled pineapple spears are the kind of dessert that feels special but couldn’t be simpler to make. Whether you’re serving them at a summer cookout or just want a light, naturally sweet treat, they hit the perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing.
Grilling brings out the fruit’s natural sugars, and when combined with a buttery brown sugar and cinnamon glaze, the pineapple develops a caramelized coating that’s warm, flavorful, and slightly crisp. You’ll find similar techniques in dishes from grilled tropical cuisines, where heat enhances the juiciness and aroma of fruits like pineapple, mango, and bananas.
This dish is also incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side with grilled meats, top it with vanilla ice cream for a full dessert, or cut it into chunks and mix it into yogurt or fruit bowls. For presentation ideas and sweet-spicy glaze alternatives, explore these grilled pineapple recipes that elevate summer dining with minimal effort.
What Makes This Pineapple Dessert a Must-Try
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Quick and easy – Just 10 minutes from prep to plate
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Naturally sweet – No refined sugar overload
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Crowd-pleaser – Kids and adults love it
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Pairs perfectly with ice cream, whipped cream, or grilled proteins
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Easy to customize – Add chili powder, lime juice, or coconut flakes
This is more than just grilled fruit—it’s a simple summer dessert that delivers big flavor and warm, tropical vibes with almost no work at all.
Ingredient Breakdown and Substitutions
With just a handful of ingredients, this grilled pineapple dessert is as easy as it is delicious. The key lies in creating the perfect balance between sweet and savory while allowing the natural fruit flavor to shine through.
Simplified Ingredients
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Fresh pineapple – Sweet, juicy, and perfect for caramelizing
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Brown sugar – Adds richness and a hint of molasses
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Melted butter – Helps create a glaze and promotes browning
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Ground cinnamon – Gives warmth and depth
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Vanilla extract (optional) – Adds a rich aroma
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Salt – Enhances the sweetness of the fruit
Grilling fruit like pineapple caramelizes the natural sugars, similar to techniques used in grilled desserts around the world. The result? A smoky-sweet dish that’s as impressive as it is easy.
Substitutions and Add-Ons
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Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar
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Try coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free twist
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Add chili powder or cayenne for a spicy contrast
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Sprinkle with toasted coconut or lime zest after grilling
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Swap in pineapple rings or chunks if preferred over spears
Explore more variations and glazes in these grilled pineapple ideas for cookouts, tropical desserts, or snack boards.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat your grill
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Set grill or grill pan to medium heat.
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Prepare the glaze
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In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, salt, and optional vanilla.
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Coat the pineapple
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Brush the glaze generously over all sides of the pineapple spears.
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Grill the pineapple
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Place directly on the grill. Cook 3–4 minutes per side or until grill marks appear and sugar caramelizes.
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Serve and enjoy
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Serve warm as-is or topped with ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of remaining glaze.
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Need a visual on grilling techniques? Explore this grilled fruit prep board for inspiration.
Tips for the Best Grilled Pineapple
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Use ripe pineapple – Look for golden color and sweet smell
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Don’t skip the salt – It amplifies the sweetness and enhances caramelization
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Cut evenly – Consistent spears cook more uniformly
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Use a grill basket for smaller pineapple pieces
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Clean grill grates to prevent sticking
Want to master more fruit-forward grill recipes? Browse this summer grilling guide.
How to Serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Spears
These caramelized spears are incredibly versatile. Try them:
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Over vanilla ice cream or coconut sorbet
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With a side of whipped cream or mascarpone
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On a platter with grilled peaches, bananas, or mango
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Alongside grilled chicken or pork for a savory-sweet combo
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Chopped and folded into fruit salsa or tropical yogurt bowls
Check out these grilled dessert boards for entertaining ideas.
Storage and Reheating Tips
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
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Reheat in a skillet or on a grill pan to refresh caramelization
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Microwave gently, but texture will be softer
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Use cold pineapple in yogurt, smoothies, or fruit bowls
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Do not freeze – freezing changes the texture
Learn more about fruit refrigeration and storage to keep grilled pineapple fresh.
Variations and Add-Ons
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Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers for crunch
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Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce
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Serve with toasted nuts like pecans or macadamias
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Add a touch of rum or bourbon to the glaze for depth
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Create pineapple kabobs with other grilled fruits
Try more creative grilled fruit combos to mix and match at your next cookout.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Using unripe pineapple – Results in tough, sour spears
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Overcooking – Makes pineapple mushy and can burn sugar
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Skipping the glaze – Reduces the caramelized effect
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Grilling on high heat – Sugar may burn before fruit is done
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Using canned pineapple – Too soft and too wet for proper grill marks
Need more grilling guidance? Review this grilling fruit technique breakdown to improve your results.
FAQs – People Also Ask
Can I make this without a grill?
Yes—use a grill pan, broiler, or even a cast-iron skillet.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! Make ahead and serve cold or reheat briefly on the stove.
What’s the best pineapple to use?
Fresh, ripe pineapple with golden skin and a sweet aroma.
Can I use canned or frozen pineapple?
Fresh is best. Canned is too soft and won’t grill as well.
What goes well with grilled pineapple?
Ice cream, whipped cream, grilled meat, or even tropical cocktails.
Brown Sugar Pineapple Spears – A Quick Grilled Dessert
Description
These brown sugar pineapple spears are brushed with a buttery cinnamon glaze and grilled to golden perfection. Sweet, caramelized, and quick to prepare, they make an easy summer dessert or tropical side dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or spears
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat.
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.
Brush the brown sugar mixture generously over all sides of the pineapple pieces.
Place pineapple directly on the grill. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the sugar begins to caramelize.
Remove from heat and serve warm as a side dish or dessert. You can also drizzle any remaining brown sugar mixture over the top.
Notes
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
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Total Time: 15–20 minutes
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Servings: 4
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Best Served: Warm, fresh off the grill
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Storage: Fridge up to 3 days
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Reheat: Grill pan or skillet for best results
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Pairs With: Ice cream, grilled meats, yogurt bowls
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Optional Add-ins: Chili flakes, coconut, lime zest, caramel drizzle
