Grilled Pineapple Honey Cinnamon: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Grilled Pineapple Honey Cinnamon: Prepare to embark on a flavor journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine the sweet, tangy burst of perfectly grilled pineapple, infused with the warm, comforting notes of cinnamon and the golden sweetness of honey. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience.

Pineapple, a symbol of hospitality and luxury throughout history, has graced tables for centuries. From its origins in South America to its widespread cultivation across tropical regions, this fruit has always been celebrated for its unique flavor profile. The addition of honey and cinnamon elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness.

What makes Grilled Pineapple Honey Cinnamon so irresistible? It’s the delightful combination of textures – the slightly caramelized exterior giving way to the juicy, tender fruit within. The honey adds a touch of decadent sweetness, while the cinnamon provides a warm, aromatic spice that perfectly complements the pineapple’s natural tang. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect treat for a quick weeknight dessert or an impressive addition to your next barbecue. Whether you’re looking for a healthy-ish indulgence or a crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 large, ripe pineapple
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Optional: 1/4 cup dark rum (for flambéing)
• Optional: Vanilla ice cream, for serving
• Optional: Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Preparing the Pineapple:

1. Choosing the Right Pineapple: The key to delicious grilled pineapple is starting with a perfectly ripe one. Look for a pineapple that is golden-yellow in color, feels heavy for its size, and has a sweet, fragrant aroma at the stem end. Avoid pineapples that are green, bruised, or have a fermented smell.
2. Cutting the Pineapple: There are a few ways to cut a pineapple for grilling. I prefer to cut it into rings, as it provides a beautiful presentation and even cooking.
   • First, using a large, sharp knife, cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple.
   • Next, stand the pineapple upright and carefully slice off the skin, following the curve of the fruit. Remove any remaining “eyes” with a small paring knife.
   • Now, you can either cut the pineapple into rings about 1 inch thick, or cut it into wedges. If you choose rings, use a small cookie cutter or knife to remove the tough core from the center of each ring.
   • If you prefer wedges, simply cut the pineapple in half lengthwise, then each half into quarters, and then each quarter into smaller wedges.
3. Preparing the Honey-Cinnamon Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined. This glaze will add a wonderful sweetness and warmth to the grilled pineapple.

Grilling the Pineapple:

1. Preheating the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the pineapple from sticking. You can use a grill brush to clean the grates and then rub them with an oil-soaked paper towel.
2. Grilling the Pineapple Rings or Wedges: Place the pineapple rings or wedges on the preheated grill. Be careful not to overcrowd the grill; you may need to grill in batches.
3. Cooking Time and Turning: Grill the pineapple for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly softened and caramelized. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Use tongs to carefully flip the pineapple.
4. Applying the Honey-Cinnamon Glaze: During the last minute of grilling, brush the honey-cinnamon glaze generously over the pineapple on both sides. This will create a beautiful, glossy finish and enhance the flavor.
5. Optional Flambéing (Adults Only!): If you’re feeling adventurous and want to add a dramatic flair, you can flambé the pineapple.
   • Remove the pineapple from the grill and place it on a heatproof platter.
   • Carefully warm the dark rum in a small saucepan or microwave (do not boil!).
   • Pour the warmed rum over the pineapple and immediately ignite it with a long-handled lighter or match.
   • Let the flames burn out completely before serving. Be extremely cautious when flambéing, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. This step is optional, but it adds a wonderful rum flavor and a visually stunning presentation.

Serving and Enjoying:

1. Serving Suggestions: Grilled pineapple is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm, caramelized pineapple pairs perfectly with the cold, creamy ice cream.
2. Garnishing: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing aroma. You can also sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon or drizzle with more honey.
3. Other Serving Ideas:
   • Serve as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
   • Add to salads for a sweet and tangy flavor.
   • Use as a filling for tacos or quesadillas.
   • Chop it up and add it to salsa.
   • Serve alongside grilled chicken or pork.
4. Storage: Leftover grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
5. Tips and Variations:
   • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey-cinnamon glaze.
   • Use brown sugar instead of honey for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
   • Add a splash of lime juice to the glaze for a tangy twist.
   • Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg, ginger, or allspice.
   • Grill other fruits along with the pineapple, such as peaches, plums, or mangoes.

Detailed Explanation of Pineapple Selection:

Choosing the perfect pineapple is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your grilled pineapple. Here’s a more in-depth look at what to look for:

1. Color: A ripe pineapple should have a golden-yellow color, especially near the base. Avoid pineapples that are completely green, as they are likely underripe. However, don’t be afraid of pineapples with some green patches, as they can still be ripe. The color is just one indicator.
2. Weight: A ripe pineapple should feel heavy for its size. This indicates that it is full of juice and sweetness.
3. Smell: The most reliable way to determine ripeness is by smelling the pineapple at the stem end. It should have a sweet, fragrant aroma. If it smells fermented or sour, it is likely overripe.
4. Touch: The pineapple should feel slightly soft to the touch, but not mushy. If it is rock hard, it is probably underripe.
5. Leaves: The leaves of a ripe pineapple should be green and healthy-looking. You should be able to easily pull out one of the leaves from the top. If the leaves are brown or dry, the pineapple may be past its prime.
6. Season: Pineapples are typically in season during the spring and summer months. During these months, they are more likely to be ripe and flavorful.

Grilling Techniques for Optimal Results:

Mastering the grilling technique is essential for achieving perfectly caramelized and flavorful grilled pineapple. Here are some tips to ensure success:

1. Grill Temperature: Maintaining the correct grill temperature is crucial. Medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C) is ideal for grilling pineapple. If the grill is too hot, the pineapple will burn on the outside before it has a chance to soften and caramelize on the inside. If the grill is too cool, the pineapple will take too long to cook and may become dry.
2. Clean and Oiled Grates: Clean grill grates are essential for preventing the pineapple from sticking. Use a grill brush to remove any debris from the grates before preheating the grill. Once the grill is preheated, lightly oil the grates with cooking oil. This will create a non-stick surface and help the pineapple release easily.
3. Even Cooking: To ensure even cooking, turn the pineapple frequently. This will help to prevent burning and ensure that all sides are caramelized.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can lower the temperature and prevent the pineapple from cooking properly. Grill in batches if necessary.
5. Use Tongs: Use tongs to carefully flip the pineapple. Avoid using a fork, as this can pierce the pineapple and cause it to lose its juices.
6. Monitor Closely: Keep a close eye on the pineapple while it is grilling. It can burn quickly, so it is important to monitor it closely and adjust the heat as needed.
7. Resting Time: After grilling, allow the pineapple to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and prevent the pineapple from drying out.

Conclusion:

This Grilled Pineapple with Honey Cinnamon recipe is truly a game-changer, transforming a simple fruit into a decadent and unforgettable treat. I’ve made this countless times, and it’s always a hit, whether it’s a casual backyard barbecue or a slightly more formal dinner party. The combination of the smoky char from the grill, the sweetness of the pineapple, the warmth of the cinnamon, and the rich, golden honey creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress!

But why is this recipe a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, it’s incredibly versatile. It’s a healthy dessert option that feels indulgent, a fantastic side dish to grilled meats, and even a surprisingly delicious topping for yogurt or ice cream. The grilling process caramelizes the natural sugars in the pineapple, intensifying its sweetness and adding a depth of flavor you just can’t achieve any other way. The honey and cinnamon complement this perfectly, creating a warm and comforting flavor profile that’s perfect for any time of year.

Looking for serving suggestions? I love to serve this grilled pineapple warm, straight off the grill, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. It’s also fantastic with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of extra honey. For a more savory option, try pairing it with grilled chicken or pork. The sweetness of the pineapple balances the richness of the meat beautifully.

And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey mixture for a little kick. Or, substitute the cinnamon with nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor profile. You could even marinate the pineapple in a mixture of rum, lime juice, and brown sugar before grilling for a tropical twist. The possibilities are endless!

Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

* Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Dice the grilled pineapple and combine it with red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice for a refreshing and flavorful salsa.
* Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Thread chunks of grilled pineapple onto skewers with grilled chicken or shrimp for a delicious and easy appetizer.
* Grilled Pineapple Pizza: Add grilled pineapple to your homemade pizza for a sweet and savory twist.
* Grilled Pineapple Smoothie: Blend grilled pineapple with yogurt, milk, and other fruits for a healthy and delicious smoothie.

I truly believe that this Grilled Pineapple with Honey Cinnamon recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of grilled pineapple.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what you served it with, and what your family and friends thought. I can’t wait to hear all about it! Happy grilling!