Brazilian-Style Grilled Pineapple Recipe for Sweet Tangy Dessert

This Brazilian Grilled Pineapple recipe features fresh pineapple slices rubbed with brown sugar and cinnamon, then grilled until caramelized and finished with a drizzle of honey. The result is sweet, slightly smoky pineapple that makes a delightful side for grilled meats, a bright addition to salads, or a simple summer dessert.

If you haven’t tried grilling fruit before, you’ll be surprised how much grilling heightens flavor. The heat caramelizes the pineapple’s natural sugars and adds a touch of smokiness. Coating the slices in a cinnamon-and-brown-sugar mix before grilling intensifies that sweetness and creates a beautiful caramelized exterior. Allowing the pineapple to rest in the sugar mixture for a few minutes deepens the flavor even more.

What sets this Brazilian-style pineapple apart is the simple sugar-and-cinnamon coating and the final drizzle of honey. While plain grilled pineapple is naturally delicious, the cinnamon, brown sugar, and honey transform it into a familiar treat enjoyed across Brazil. The flavors are warm and balanced — sweet, spicy, and slightly smoky.

Ingredients

• Pineapple – Use a ripe, fresh pineapple, peeled and cut into strips thick enough to hold on the grill.
• Brown sugar – Light brown sugar or coconut sugar work well to sweeten the pineapple.
• Cinnamon – Ground cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic spice.
• Honey – A light drizzle after grilling adds sheen and extra sweetness.
• Mint leaves – Fresh mint for garnish and a burst of color.

How To Make Brazilian Grilled Pineapple

• Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a shallow baking dish.
• Trim and slice the pineapple into long, even strips. Transfer the slices to the baking dish with the sugar and cinnamon.
• Toss the pineapple pieces until they are well coated. For a deeper flavor, let them sit in the sugar mixture for 10–15 minutes to macerate.
• Preheat the grill to high (around 450°F / 230°C). Oil the grill grates or spray lightly with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
• Grill the pineapple strips for about 8–10 minutes per side, or until they develop golden-brown grill marks and begin to caramelize.
• Transfer the grilled pineapple to a serving dish, drizzle with honey, and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

For a subtle variation, add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the sugar mixture for a more complex spice profile.

What to serve with grilled pineapple

Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as steak, pork, or fish — it cuts through richness with bright acidity and sweetness. Add a few slices to summer salads for a tropical twist, or serve the pineapple alongside roasted or grilled vegetables for a balanced plate.

For dessert, serve the warm pineapple with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, salted caramel ice cream, or a dairy-free frozen treat. A drizzle of dulce de leche elevates the dish if you want a decadent option. For a lighter finish, pair the grilled pineapple with vanilla Greek yogurt, overnight chia pudding, or an oats-and-chia bowl.