The sweet, smoky aroma of caramelizing pineapple on the grill is something I crave every summer. Grilled Pineapple Slices with Honey Glaze have become my go-to treat whenever I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The honey glaze adds a luscious sweetness that perfectly balances the pineapple’s natural tang, creating a flavor that’s both simple and extraordinary. Whether you’re pairing these slices with a sizzling barbecue or enjoying them as a refreshing dessert, this recipe brings a tropical twist that’s surprisingly easy to pull off. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without the smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple kissed by honey.
Why love Grilled Pineapple Slices with Honey Glaze?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and basic grilling skills, making it perfect for any home cook. Bursting with flavor: The honey glaze enhances the pineapple’s natural sweetness, creating a delightful balance of smoky and tangy notes. Quick and versatile: Ready in minutes, these slices work as a refreshing dessert or a unique side for any barbecue. Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Sweet, juicy, and caramelized—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Grilled Pineapple Slices with Honey Glaze Ingredients
For the Pineapple Slices
- Fresh pineapple – Choose ripe, firm fruit for sweet, juicy slices that grill beautifully.
- Vegetable oil – Lightly brush to prevent sticking and help caramelize the pineapple’s natural sugars.
For the Honey Glaze
- Honey – Adds a luscious sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky pineapple flavor.
- Fresh lime juice – Balances sweetness with a bright, tangy kick for depth.
- Ground cinnamon – A pinch enhances warmth and adds subtle spice to the glaze.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh mint leaves – Sprinkle for a refreshing, aromatic finish.
- Sea salt flakes – A tiny sprinkle amplifies the pineapple’s natural flavors and honey glaze.
How to Make Grilled Pineapple Slices with Honey Glaze
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high, about 400°F. Clean grates, then lightly oil them to ensure the pineapple slices don’t stick and develop perfect char marks.
- Slice Pineapple: Trim the top, bottom, and skin from a ripe pineapple, then slice into ½-inch-thick rings or wedges for easy grilling and gorgeous, juicy pieces.
- Oil Slices: Lightly brush both sides of each pineapple slice with vegetable oil; this prevents sticking and encourages beautifully caramelized edges that are golden brown and slightly charred.
For the Honey Glaze:
- Combine Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of ground cinnamon until smooth and glossy, creating a shiny, amber-hued glaze.
- Grill Pineapple: Arrange slices on preheated grill, cooking 3–4 minutes per side until they show dark char lines and become tender but still hold their shape.
- Glaze & Caramelize: Brush each slice generously with honey glaze, grilling an additional 1–2 minutes per side until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes to a deep golden hue.
- Serve: Transfer warm pineapple to a platter, garnish with fresh mint leaves or sea salt flakes, and enjoy the sweet, smoky delight immediately.
Optional: Sprinkle extra cinnamon for a warm, spicy twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Pineapple Slices with Honey Glaze are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the fresh pineapple and brush it with vegetable oil up to 24 hours in advance to save on time during busy cookout days. Additionally, you can prepare the honey glaze by whisking the honey, lime juice, and cinnamon together and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to grill, simply bring the slices and glaze to room temperature, grill the pineapple as directed, and brush on the glaze for a deliciously caramelized finish. Trust me, you’ll enjoy the ease of preparing these sweet treats ahead of time—just as delightful as when made fresh!
What to Serve with Grilled Pineapple Slices with Honey Glaze?
Get ready to elevate your summer gatherings with delightful pairings that accentuate the tropical sweetness of grilled pineapple.
- Savory Barbecue Ribs: The smoky, tender meat of ribs pairs perfectly with the sweet acidity of pineapple, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
- Coconut Rice: Creamy and slightly sweet, coconut rice complements the caramelized honey glaze beautifully, adding a tropical flair.
- Spicy Shrimp Tacos: The spicy kick of shrimp tacos contrasts wonderfully with the sweet pineapple, making for an explosion of flavors in each bite.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries, mango, and mint brings out the fruity freshness of the pineapple, creating a refreshing side dish.
Pairing your grilled pineapple with a cool and refreshing fruit salad adds texture and lightness to your meal. The juicy notes enhance the tropical theme, making your dining experience truly memorable.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve atop creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert, where warm and cold merge into a luxurious bite.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: A sparkling beverage with lime not only refreshes but enhances the citrus notes in the honey glaze, creating a cohesive flavor echo.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a touch of rich chocolate drizzle for those with a sweet tooth; it perfectly marries with the honey glaze for an indulgent twist.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: The savory grilled chicken, seasoned with herbs, adds a satisfying heartiness alongside the sweet pineapple slices for a balanced plate.
Expert Tips for Grilled Pineapple Slices with Honey Glaze
- Choose ripe pineapple: Select firm, golden pineapple for the best balance of sweetness and texture when grilling grilled pineapple slices with honey glaze.
- Preheat the grill properly: A hot grill (around 400°F) ensures lovely char marks and caramelization without overcooking or drying out the pineapple.
- Brush with oil carefully: Lightly oil the pineapple slices to prevent sticking but avoid excess oil, which can cause flare-ups on the grill.
- Apply glaze at the right time: Brush the honey glaze during the last couple of minutes on the grill to achieve a perfect, sticky caramelization without burning.
- Watch the grilling time: Keep slices tender by grilling 3–4 minutes per side—overcooking can make pineapple mushy and lose its fresh flavor.
- Add finishing touches: Sprinkle sea salt flakes or fresh mint just before serving to elevate the natural sweetness and add a refreshing contrast.
Grilled Pineapple Slices with Honey Glaze Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists that will elevate your grilled pineapple experience even further!
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper on the pineapple slices before grilling for a delightful heat contrast. It’s a fun surprise that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
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Coconut Infusion: Brush the slices with coconut cream instead of vegetable oil for a tropical twist. This adds a rich flavor that enhances the overall experience.
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Bourbon Glaze: Replace honey with a mix of bourbon and brown sugar for a caramelized, buttery finish. The bourbon adds depth, making each bite utterly indulgent.
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Minty Freshness: Mix fresh mint into your honey glaze for an invigorating flavor boost. The mint will bring a refreshing twist that complements the sweetness.
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Maple Sweetness: Swap honey for maple syrup in the glaze to create a deeper, earthy flavor profile. It’s a lovely change that enhances the natural caramelization of grilled pineapple.
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Lemon Zest: Add a pinch of lemon zest to the honey glaze for a bright, zesty note. It’s an easy way to add a pop of freshness to the final dish.
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Cheesy Delight: Top the grilled slices with crumbled feta cheese to introduce a crumbly, savory element. The cheese’s saltiness provides a beautiful balance to the sweet pineapple.
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Nutty Crunch: Finish with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or almonds for added texture and richness. The nuts offer a wonderful crunch that takes your grilled pineapple slices to the next level.
Embark on this flavorful adventure and find your favorite combination!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Pineapple Slices with Honey Glaze
Room Temperature: Enjoy your grilled pineapple slices fresh for the best flavor, ideally consuming them within 1-2 hours after grilling.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in a skillet for optimal flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze grilled pineapple slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the grill for a few minutes, brushing with honey glaze for that fresh taste of grilled pineapple slices.
Irresistibly Juicy Grilled Pineapple Slices with Honey Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my pineapple is ripe enough for grilling?
Choose a pineapple with a sweet fragrance at the base and vibrant golden-yellow skin. It should feel firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure. Avoid fruit with dark spots all over or a fermented smell, as that usually indicates overripeness.
What’s the best way to store leftover grilled pineapple slices with honey glaze?
Store cooled grilled pineapple slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining their juicy texture. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the grill or in a warm skillet to revive that smoky-charred flavor.
Can I freeze grilled pineapple slices with honey glaze, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Lay the grilled pineapple slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm (about 2 hours). Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air. Stored this way, they’ll keep their best quality for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and briefly reheat on the grill with a fresh brush of honey glaze.
My pineapple slices sometimes turn mushy after grilling. How can I prevent this?
Overcooking is the culprit! Grill the slices 3–4 minutes per side only, until tender but still holding shape. Using ripe, firm pineapple also helps maintain texture. Avoid grilling over flames that are too hot or cooking for too long, as this breaks down the fruit’s structure and releases too much juice.
Is this grilled pineapple recipe safe for pets or people with allergies?
While pineapple is generally safe for many pets in small amounts, grilled pineapple with honey glaze contains ingredients like honey and cinnamon that may not be suitable for all animals—always check with a vet first. For humans with allergies to honey or cinnamon, you can omit these or substitute with maple syrup and a pinch of nutmeg to keep the sweet-spicy element friendly and flavorful.
Irresistibly Juicy Grilled Pineapple Slices with Honey Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high, about 400°F. Clean grates and lightly oil them.
- Trim the top, bottom, and skin from the pineapple, then slice into ½-inch-thick rings or wedges.
- Lightly brush both sides of each pineapple slice with vegetable oil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, fresh lime juice, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
- Arrange slices on the grill and cook 3–4 minutes per side until charred and tender.
- Brush each slice with honey glaze and grill for an additional 1–2 minutes per side until caramelized.
- Transfer to a platter, garnish with fresh mint leaves or sea salt, and serve immediately.
