Introduction
There’s something magical about transforming a simple fruit into a spectacular dessert. Grilled pineapple with a cinnamon honey drizzle is my go-to recipe when I want to impress guests or treat myself to a luxurious yet healthy dessert. The combination of charred pineapple, sweet honey, and warm cinnamon creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
Why Grilled Pineapple?
Grilling pineapple isn’t just a cooking method—it’s an art form that elevates this tropical fruit from good to absolutely extraordinary. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, creating a complex flavor profile that’s both smoky and sweet.
Key Benefits of Grilled Pineapple
- Nutritional Powerhouse: Rich in vitamin C and manganese
- Low-Calorie Dessert: Perfect for health-conscious individuals
- Versatile Dish: Can be served as dessert, side dish, or appetizer
- Quick Preparation: Takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Pineapple | 1 whole | Preferably ripe and golden |
| Honey | 1/4 cup | Raw, organic preferred |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 tablespoon | Fresh, high-quality ground |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | Unsalted, for brushing |
| Sea Salt | Pinch | Enhances flavor complexity |
Essential Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Basting brush
- Serving platter
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Pineapple Preparation
- Wash the pineapple thoroughly
- Cut off the top and bottom
- Stand pineapple upright and slice off the skin
- Remove any remaining “eyes”
- Cut into 1/2 inch thick rings
- Seasoning and Prepping
- Pat pineapple rings dry with paper towels
- Brush lightly with melted butter
- Sprinkle a small amount of sea salt
- Grilling Process
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat
- Place pineapple rings directly on clean grill grates
- Grill 2-3 minutes per side
- Look for beautiful caramel-colored grill marks
- Cinnamon Honey Drizzle
- Mix honey and ground cinnamon in a small bowl
- Whisk until completely combined
- Warm slightly for easier drizzling
Serving Suggestions
I love serving grilled pineapple in multiple ways:
- As a standalone dessert
- Alongside vanilla ice cream
- Chopped in a tropical fruit salad
- Paired with Greek yogurt
- Topping for morning pancakes
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Vitamin C | 80% Daily Value |
| Manganese | 40% Daily Value |
Pro Tips
- Choose a pineapple that’s golden and fragrant
- Let pineapple sit at room temperature for maximum sweetness
- Don’t overcrowd the grill
- Turn rings only once for perfect grill marks
- Experiment with different honey varieties
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this recipe without a grill? A: Absolutely! A grill pan or cast-iron skillet works perfectly.
Q: How do I know if my pineapple is ripe? A: Look for a golden color and sweet aroma. The leaves should be green and fresh-looking.
Q: Can I make the cinnamon honey drizzle ahead of time? A: Yes! It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Q: Is this dessert gluten-free? A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Q: How long can grilled pineapple be stored? A: Best consumed immediately, but can be refrigerated for 1-2 days.
Conclusion
Grilled pineapple with cinnamon honey drizzle is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and culinary creativity. With minimal ingredients and simple techniques, you can transform an ordinary fruit into an extraordinary experience.
Bon appétit!
