Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Brown Sugar Butter Sauce

This dessert brings tropical notes to gatherings with smoky caramel and a creamy finish.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 21, 2025

This dessert brings tropical notes to gatherings with smoky caramel and a creamy finish.

Few treats capture the essence of summer like grilled pineapple brushed in a decadent coconut brown sugar butter sauce. The kiss of the grill transforms the fruit’s natural sugars into rich caramel notes, while the saucy glaze envelopes each slice in tropical warmth. Perfect for a backyard barbecue, family dinner, or an easy showstopping dessert, this recipe is packed with flavor and made with only a handful of ingredients.

Why Grilled Pineapple?

Grilling fruit may seem unconventional, but grilled pineapple is an undeniable crowd-pleaser. The heat caramelizes the fruit’s sugars, concentrating its flavor and infusing each bite with subtle smokiness. The charred edges contrast deliciously with the juicy, tangy center, while the coconut brown sugar butter sauce provides richness and aromatic depth.

Simple and fast prep usually takes less than 20 minutes.
Versatile: Serve as a dessert, side, or unexpected burger topping.
Dramatic presentation with minimal effort.
Make-ahead friendly: Grill and glaze the pineapple in advance.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time	Cook Time	Serves	Difficulty
10 minutes	12 minutes	6	Easy

Perfect for cookouts and celebrations, this recipe blends accessibility with irresistible tropical flair.

Essential Ingredients

This recipe demands fresh, ripe pineapple and a brief list of pantry staples for the glaze.

Fresh Pineapple: Choose a fruit that is golden, fragrant, and yields slightly to pressure.
Butter: Unsalted provides rich flavor and emulsifies the sauce.
Brown Sugar: Lends caramel notes and balances tartness.
Coconut Cream: Creates a luxurious, tropical base; coconut milk or coconut extract can substitute.
Flake Coconut (optional): Toasted, for garnish and crunch.
Cinnamon (optional): For hint of spice.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Pineapple
- Peel the pineapple, trim the ends, and cut out the tough core.
- Cut into rings about ½–¾ inch thick, or slice lengthwise into spears or wedges.
Make the Coconut Brown Sugar Butter Sauce
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, and coconut cream. Add a pinch of salt and optional cinnamon.
- Warm gently and whisk until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is glossy.
Heat Your Grill
- Preheat to medium-high. Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Brush & Grill
- Brush both sides of each pineapple slice generously with the sauce.
- Place on the grill. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side, until caramelized grill marks appear and the pineapple is heated through.
- Brush with more sauce as you flip for maximum flavor.
Serve
- Transfer to a platter. Drizzle with remaining sauce.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes, if desired.

Tips for Grilled Pineapple Perfection

Choose ripe pineapple: Look for golden skin, fragrant aroma, and a slight softness.
Cut evenly: Uniform slices ensure consistent cooking.
Use a well-oiled grill: Prevents sticking and tearing.
Don’t overcook: 2–3 minutes per side is plenty for caramelization without drying out the fruit.
Experiment with glaze add-ins: Spiced rum or vanilla can add extra depth.

Flavor Variations & Creative Twists

Spiced Rum Glaze: Stir 1 tablespoon of spiced rum into the sauce for a boozy, aromatic twist.
Chili-Lime Kick: Add a pinch of chili powder and lime zest to the glaze for a sweet-spicy contrast.
Maple or Honey Substitute: Swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for different nuances.
Vegan Option: Use coconut oil in place of butter.
Toasted Almond Garnish: Top with slivered, toasted almonds for crunchy contrast.

Serving Suggestions

As a side dish: Pair with grilled chicken, pork, or seafood for a bright, tropical accent.
Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut sorbet, and drizzle with extra sauce.
Burger topping: Add a grilled pineapple ring to burgers for a sweet, juicy burst.
Brunch: Serve with cottage cheese, yogurt, or pancakes.
Salad topper: Chop leftovers for fruit or green salads.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Make ahead: The sauce can be prepared up to three days in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator, and reheat gently before using.
Leftovers: Store grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Enjoy cold, or rewarm briefly in a skillet or microwave.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size	Calories	Carbohydrates	Fat	Sugar	Fiber
1/6 of pineapple	Approx. 150 kcal	30g	4g	25g	2g

Values vary based on portion size and exact ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

A: Fresh pineapple is best for grilling because it holds up to heat and develops better caramelization. Canned rings work in a pinch, but may be softer and contain more moisture.

Q: What if I don’t have coconut cream?

A: You can substitute coconut milk (preferably the full-fat kind) or use 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract for flavor. Adjust thickness with a little more butter or brown sugar as needed.

Q: Is this recipe vegan?

A: It can be made vegan by swapping butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine.

Q: Can I cook the pineapple indoors?

A: Yes, use a stovetop grill pan or heavy nonstick skillet over medium-high heat for similar results.

Q: How do I toast coconut flakes?

A: Spread sweetened or unsweetened flake coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant (about 3–5 minutes).

Pro Tips for Success

Use a silicone grill brush for even sauce application.
Cut pineapple into thick slices to prevent breakage on the grill.
Monitor closely—sugar can burn quickly. Pull the pineapple as soon as deep grill marks and bubbles appear.
Double the sauce for extra drizzling or dipping at the table.
Pair with coconut ice cream for the ultimate tropical sundae.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or simply seeking an exciting new summer dessert, grilled pineapple with coconut brown sugar butter sauce offers unbeatable flavor and endless versatility. Created with everyday ingredients yet bursting with vacation vibes, this recipe is a go-to for cookouts, parties, and indulgent weeknight treats alike. Experiment with fun twists, serve it at your next gathering, and transport your tastebuds to the tropics—one smoky, caramelized bite at a time.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

Read full bio of medha deb