Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a light dessert, this recipe shines with its sweet and smoky flavors. The combination of grilled pineapple and a warm honey cinnamon drizzle elevates this dish, making it a favorite among fruit lovers. It’s easy to prepare and serves beautifully, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special treat at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 16 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Naturally Sweet: The natural sweetness of grilled pineapple combined with honey creates a deliciously satisfying dessert without any added sugars.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish at barbecues or enjoy it as a light dessert after dinner—it’s perfect for both!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, grilled pineapple is not only tasty but also good for you.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and beautiful grill marks make this dish visually appealing, sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure that your grilling experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Grill brush
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good quality grill allows for even cooking and those beautiful grill marks that enhance flavor.
• Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is crucial for combining the honey and cinnamon smoothly, ensuring an even drizzle over the pineapple.
• Basting Brush: A basting brush helps in evenly applying the honey mixture onto the grilled pineapple, maximizing flavor.

Ingredients

For the Honey Cinnamon Drizzle

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon

For the Grilled Pineapple

• 1 pineapple (sliced into spears)

How to Make Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. Ensure it’s clean by using a grill brush to remove any leftover debris from previous cooking sessions.

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple

• Lightly spray the grill grates with non-stick spray.
• Place the sliced pineapple spears on the grill.
• Grill each side for about three minutes until they are caramelized and have nice grill marks.

Step 3: Make the Honey Cinnamon Drizzle

While the pineapple is grilling:
1. Soften the honey in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened honey with cinnamon, stirring well until fully blended.

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Once the pineapple is done grilling:
* Remove it from the grill carefully.
* Drizzle your homemade honey cinnamon mixture generously over each piece.
* Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a side dish or a dessert, its sweet and smoky flavors make it an excellent choice for any meal.

As a Standalone Dessert

• Serve warm: Enjoy the grilled pineapple fresh off the grill for a delightful treat.
• Top with ice cream: Pair it with vanilla or coconut ice cream for a creamy contrast.

In Fruit Salads

• Combine with mixed fruits: Add the grilled pineapple to a fruit salad for extra sweetness and texture.
• Dress with lime juice: A splash of lime juice enhances the flavors and adds brightness.

Accompaniment to Grilled Meats

• Pair with chicken or turkey: The sweetness balances savory grilled meats beautifully.
• Serve alongside beef dishes: The contrast of flavors elevates your meal experience.

On Breakfast Plates

• Add to pancakes or waffles: Use grilled pineapple as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a tropical twist.
• Mix into yogurt parfaits: Layer with yogurt and granola for a delicious breakfast option.

How to Perfect Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

To achieve the best results when making Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, consider these tips:

• Choose ripe pineapples: Select pineapples that are golden and fragrant for optimal sweetness.
• Preheat the grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat for even cooking.
• Use non-stick spray generously: This helps prevent the pineapple from sticking and ensures easy flipping.
• Monitor grilling time: Grill each side for about three minutes; adjust based on your grill’s heat level.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger to the honey mixture for added flavor complexity.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing blend of quinoa, cucumbers, and herbs makes a light side.
2. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers complement the sweet pineapple.
3. Rice Pilaf – A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices adds depth to your meal.
4. Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw provides a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn pairs well with the caramelized flavors of grilled pineapple.
6. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy fries bring out the natural sweetness of both dishes while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Boldly ignore the grill temperature: Using too high a heat can burn the pineapple before it cooks through. Aim for medium heat to achieve that perfect caramelization without charring.

• Boldly skip the honey softening: If you don’t soften the honey, it may not mix well with cinnamon. Microwave it for about 30 seconds to get a smooth drizzle.

• Boldly forget to prepare the grill: Not using non-stick spray can lead to sticking and tearing of the pineapple slices. Always prepare your grill for a successful sear.

• Boldly overlook serving suggestions: Grilled pineapple is versatile! Pair it with yogurt, ice cream, or even on top of salads for added flavor and texture.

• Boldly underestimate resting time: Allowing the grilled pineapple to rest for a minute after grilling enhances its sweetness and flavor. Don’t rush to serve!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or juice if necessary, and warm for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this delicious dessert, here are some common questions answered:

What is Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle?

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a sweet treat made by grilling pineapple slices and drizzling them with a warm honey-cinnamon sauce.

How do I choose the right pineapple?

Look for pineapples that are firm and have a sweet aroma at the base. The skin should be golden yellow, indicating ripeness.

Can I use other fruits instead?

Absolutely! You can try grilling peaches, mangoes, or even bananas alongside your grilled pineapple for variety.

What are some variations of this recipe?

You can add spices like nutmeg or ginger to the honey mixture or serve it with whipped cream or coconut yogurt for an extra treat.

How should I serve Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle?

This dish works well as a side with grilled meats or as a light dessert topped with ice cream or yogurt.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle offers a delightful combination of flavors that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect as a side dish or light dessert, it’s easy to customize with different toppings or spices. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own!