Name: Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 14 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 ripe pineapple; 2/3 cup brown sugar, lightly packed; 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) salted butter, melted; 3 tablespoons lime juice (about two small limes); 3/4 teaspoon coconut extract; 2 teaspoons flaky sea salt; Lime zest; Vanilla ice cream; Caramel sauce

Nothing says tropical indulgence quite like the sweet smokiness of pineapple kissed by the grill. This Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe is a simple yet sensational way to enjoy pineapple, bringing out its natural sugars with a tangy lime twist and a hint of coconut that’ll have you coming back for more.

The image shows several grilled pineapple rings arranged closely on a wooden board. Each pineapple ring has a vibrant yellow color with dark brown grill marks running across them, creating a striking contrast. The texture of the pineapples looks juicy and slightly caramelized, with some edges showing a slight char. The wooden board sits on a white marbled surface, and in the background, there is a lime wedge and a bowl of salt partially visible. The scene has bright, natural lighting that highlights the juicy texture of the pineapples. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I honestly can’t get enough of this grilled pineapple—there’s something magical about caramelized fruit with a touch of tropical flair that feels special but never complicated. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual barbecue or a fancy dessert twist, this recipe delivers every time.

Effortless Flavor Boost: The combo of lime and coconut extract elevates the pineapple’s natural sweetness perfectly.
Quick and Easy: Prep takes minutes and grilling is fast—great for spontaneous gatherings or last-minute treats.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm from the grill, with ice cream, or as a refreshing side dish.
Healthy Indulgence: Fruit, a little butter, and natural sweeteners make this a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The image shows several grilled pineapple rings on a black grill with dark grill lines marking each piece. Each pineapple slice is bright yellow with a slightly translucent texture and has charred dark brown lines running horizontally across the surface, adding a smoky effect. The rings are thick, laying flat on the grill bars, and the close-up view highlights the juicy, cooked fruit with some areas showing slight caramelization. The background has the black grill surface visible between the pineapple rings. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this grilled pineapple recipe has a purpose. The balance between tart lime, toasted coconut notes, and buttery sweetness creates a flavor profile that feels both exotic and comforting. Plus, using fresh pineapple is key to getting that juicy, caramelized finish.

Flat lay of a whole ripe pineapple with vibrant yellow flesh and green spiky crown, a small white ceramic bowl filled with light brown packed brown sugar crystals, a small white ceramic bowl containing melted salted butter glowing softly, two fresh small whole limes with glossy green skin, a small white ceramic bowl holding clear pale lime juice, a small white ceramic bowl with pure white coconut extract liquid, and a neat pile of large flaky sea salt crystals on a white ceramic dish, all arranged in perfect symmetry, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p awthu7i m7354615311229779997

Pineapple: Choose one ripe and fragrant with a firm texture—it’s crucial for juicy, flavorful slices that hold up on the grill.
Brown Sugar: Adds deep caramel notes that help with the beautifully charred edges.
Salted Butter: Melts into the fruit, amplifying richness and helping the sugar caramelize perfectly.
Lime Juice: Brings zing and balances the sweetness, brightening up every bite.
Coconut Extract: A subtle tropical hint that transforms the flavors and keeps things interesting.
Flaky Sea Salt: Sprinkled on top to cut through sweetness and add a delicate crunch.
Optional Toppings (Lime Zest, Vanilla Ice Cream, Caramel Sauce): These add-ons let you tailor the dish towards a fresh dessert or an indulgent treat.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of my favorite things about this Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can dial up the coconut for a more tropical vibe or swap lime for lemon for a slightly different citrus twist. Feel free to experiment and make it suit your taste!

Variation: I once added a sprinkle of chili powder to the sugar glaze for a spicy-sweet kick, and my friends couldn’t get enough of it!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pineapple Like a Pro

First things first—grab a ripe pineapple and get it ready. I peel the skin carefully, core it, and slice about half-inch thick rings or rounds. This thickness grills nicely without falling apart and gives you 12 pieces or so—perfect for sharing. Make sure your knife is sharp and steady; it makes all the difference and saves time.

Step 2: Whisk Up Your Flavorful Glaze

Mix together brown sugar, melted salted butter, fresh lime juice, and coconut extract in a bowl. The melted butter helps everything blend smoothly and lets the sugar stick to the pineapple when you brush it on. Don’t skip the lime juice here; it brightens the whole glaze beautifully.

Step 3: Brush, Season, and Salt

Brush both sides of your pineapple slices generously with the brown sugar mixture so it clings well. Then sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on each side to balance the sweetness with a subtle savory note and add lovely texture.

Step 4: Fire Up the Grill and Cook Quick

Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 300-350°F). Place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. You’re looking for deep grill marks and caramelization without burning. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or even a skillet on the stovetop works well—just keep the heat moderate.

Step 5: Serve Warm, Enjoy Immediately

Once grilled to perfection, plate your pineapple slices and serve right away. They’re amazing warm and juicy, especially if you top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of lime zest for an extra fresh pop.

Top Tip

I’ve learned that the magic really happens in the glazing and timing. Brush generously and don’t rush the grilling—this is where the pineapple gets that perfect sweet-smoky-charred flavor without drying out.

Proper Pineapple Selection: Picking a ripe but firm pineapple makes slicing and grilling much easier and tastier.
Patience on the Grill: Resist the urge to move the pineapple too much; let the grill marks form naturally for flavor.
Use Flaky Sea Salt: The texture and flavor of flaky salt is a game-changer compared to regular table salt.
Avoid Overcooking: Pineapple cooks quickly; watch for caramelization but don’t let it char black or dry out.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a little fresh lime zest on top right before serving—it adds that zesty punch and bright color. Sometimes I add a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a dessert flair that’s simply irresistible.

Side Dishes

This grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a tropical-inspired meal. It also goes well alongside coconut rice or a refreshing green salad, making it an easy but impressive side dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like to thread the grilled pineapple rings onto skewers with chunks of mango and toasted coconut flakes for a vibrant tropical fruit kebab. It’s a crowd-pleaser and adds a pop of color to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover pineapple stores great in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just keep in mind that it’s best enjoyed warmed up to revive that soft, caramelized texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen grilled pineapple slices before, and they thaw nicely. They become a lovely frozen treat or can be blended into smoothies. Freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to a bag to avoid clumping.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop leftover pineapple in a hot skillet or under the broiler for just a minute or two—it brings back that fresh-from-the-grill warmth without making them soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use canned pineapple for this grilled recipe?

Canned pineapple tends to be too soft and wet, which makes it tricky to grill without falling apart. Fresh, ripe pineapple is best for grilling because it holds its shape and caramelizes beautifully.

What if I don’t have coconut extract on hand?

If you’re out of coconut extract, vanilla extract works as a decent substitute to add a bit of warmth and sweetness, though you’ll miss the distinct coconut flavor. Alternatively, toasted shredded coconut sprinkled over the pineapple after grilling adds great texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe without butter?

Yes! You can substitute the butter with coconut oil to keep the tropical vibe, or simply brush the pineapple with the brown sugar and lime mixture without any fat for a lighter option. Just know that butter helps carry the flavors and adds richness.

How do I prevent the pineapple from sticking to the grill?

Make sure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled before heating. Brushing the pineapple with the butter mixture also helps prevent sticking. Use medium heat and avoid flipping too often to maintain good grill marks and ease of turning.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels fancy and effortless at the same time. It’s my go-to when I want a fresh dessert without turning on the oven or a sweet side that steals the show at any meal. Give it a try—you might find it becoming your favorite summer treat too.