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; ⅔ cup brown sugar lightly packed; ¼ cup (½ stick) salted butter melted; 3 tbsp lime juice about two small limes; ¾ tsp coconut extract; 2 tsp flaky sea salt; lime zest; vanilla ice cream; caramel sauce

There’s something magical about the sweet, smoky flavor of pineapple fresh off the grill, especially when it’s brightened up with zesty lime and that dreamy touch of coconut. This Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe is one of those simple yet showstopper treats that’s perfect for summer evenings or whenever you want a fresh twist on dessert.

The image shows four thick rings of grilled pineapple stacked on a light wooden board, each ring with charred dark brown grill marks evenly spaced on the bright yellow flesh. The pineapples look juicy with some caramelized spots adding texture and color variation. Part of a green and white striped cloth is seen on the left, along with a small wooden bowl containing salt and a wedge of lime. The surface under the board is white with a marbled texture. 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 can’t tell you how many times I’ve whipped up this grilled pineapple to wow friends at barbecues or just add a sunny mood to a weeknight dessert. The balance of caramelized sweetness, tangy lime, and that subtle coconut aroma always amazes me—it’s like a mini tropical vacation on your plate.

Simple ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples, which means you can throw this together anytime without a special trip to the store.
Quick to prepare: From start to finish, it takes less than 15 minutes, making it a fantastic last-minute treat.
Versatile serving options: Serve it warm as a dessert or pair it with savory dishes for an unexpected sweet twist.
Fresh flavor combo: The lime brightens the caramelized pineapple while the coconut extract adds a subtle, exotic flair that’s totally addictive.

Four yellow pineapple rings with dark brown grill marks lie flat and slightly shiny on black grill bars. The pineapples have a smooth, moist texture with small charred spots and a hollow center. The grill bars run horizontally under the fruit, and the background shows depth and shadows in a close-up view. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe plays a special role that brings everything together in harmony. Using fresh pineapple is key because it caramelizes beautifully and absorbs the flavors of lime and coconut perfectly.

Flat lay of a whole ripe pineapple with green spiky leaves and golden textured skin, a small white ceramic bowl filled with light brown packed brown sugar, a small white ceramic bowl containing melted golden salted butter, two small whole fresh limes with one cut in half showing juicy green interior, a small white ceramic bowl of flaky white sea salt, a small white ceramic bowl with clear pale coconut extract liquid, and a small white ceramic bowl holding finely grated lime zest, all arranged in perfect symmetry and balanced proportions 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

Ripe pineapple: Choose one that smells sweet at the base and feels firm but slightly soft to the touch; this ensures juiciness and natural sweetness.
Brown sugar: Adds a deep caramel flavor when it melts on the grill—definitely packs more warmth than plain white sugar.
Salted butter: Brings richness and helps the sugar caramelize, giving those golden grill marks a mouthwatering crunch.
Lime juice: The acidity cuts through the sweetness, balancing and lifting the whole dish with a zesty punch.
Coconut extract: Just a splash adds that unmistakable tropical vibe without overpowering the pineapple.
Flaky sea salt: A sprinkle of salt contrasts the sweet caramelized flavors and makes the taste pop even more.

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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

I love playing around with this recipe depending on the mood. Sometimes I swap out coconut extract for a splash of rum for a boozy twist, or even sprinkle chopped fresh mint on top for an herbaceous surprise. You should definitely feel free to make it yours!

Variation: When I’m in a hurry, I brush the pineapple only on one side and flip carefully—sometimes it’s an indulgent shortcut I don’t mind making for speed.
Dairy-free option: Use melted coconut oil instead of butter to keep it vegan-friendly while still getting a nice caramelized finish.
Spicy kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the brown sugar mix gives the grilled pineapple an unexpected spicy warmth I’ve grown to adore.

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

Step 1: Prep your pineapple like a pro

Start by peeling your pineapple carefully. The trick I learned is to slice off the top and bottom first, then stand the pineapple upright and cut down the sides, taking off the skin in strips. Next, core it and slice into about ½ inch thick rings. This thickness is perfect to get grill marks and a little softness without turning mushy.

Step 2: Whisk together the magic marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk the brown sugar, melted salted butter, fresh lime juice, and coconut extract until smooth and combined. This mixture is your flavor powerhouse—it gives the pineapple that irresistible caramelized glaze and tropical aroma.

Step 3: Coat and season your pineapple rings

Brush each pineapple slice generously on both sides with the brown sugar mixture. Then sprinkle flaky sea salt sparingly—this little sprinkle really wakes up the flavors. Don’t be shy about coating all surfaces; every bite should have that luscious glaze.

Step 4: Grill to golden perfection

Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 300-350°F. Place pineapple rings carefully on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. You’re looking for those beautiful grill lines and that caramelized sugar bubbling and softening the fruit. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn—you want golden, not charred.

Step 5: Serve warm and enjoy the tropical magic

Once grilled, plate your pineapple while it’s still warm. You can serve it as is, or add some lime zest, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent finish.

Top Tip

After several tries, I realized that getting the grill temperature just right is key to nailing this Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe. Too hot and the sugar burns, too cool and the pineapple won’t caramelize properly.

Medium Heat Mastery: Keep your grill between 300-350°F for perfect caramelization without burning.
Brush Often: Don’t forget to reapply the buttery sugar melt if you grill in batches—this keeps the flavor vibrant.
Use Flaky Sea Salt: Coarse salt crystals provide a nice contrast to the sweet pineapple; fine salt just disappears.
Watch the Clock: Two to three minutes per side is enough; too long and the rings become mushy.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe

Garnishes

When I serve this, I love adding freshly grated lime zest right on top—that brightens every bite. Sometimes, if it’s dessert time, a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream melts lovely alongside the warm pineapple. For a fancier twist, a light drizzle of caramel sauce is always a hit with guests.

Side Dishes

This pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or shrimp, adding a sweet and tangy counterpoint. Or whip up a fresh cilantro and avocado salad alongside it for a light, tropical-inspired meal that sizzles with flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like threading grilled pineapple rings onto skewers with shrimp or chunks of tofu to create colorful tropical kebabs. They’re fun for parties and look gorgeous served on a platter garnished with toasted coconut flakes and lime wheels.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always stash leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge, where it keeps well for up to three days. The flavors actually meld beautifully over time, making the next-day snack even tastier—just eat cold or warm it up gently.

Freezing

I’ve frozen grilled pineapple slices a handful of times with good results—just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They last up to six months and thaw nicely for smoothies or as a frozen treat on a hot day.

Reheating

To reheat, I use a skillet on the stove over medium-low heat, warming pineapple slices just until heated through so they don’t become overly soft. Alternatively, a quick turn in the oven or toaster oven at low temp works wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

Fresh pineapple works best because it holds up to grilling and caramelizes in a way canned pineapple can’t. Canned fruit is typically softer and less juicy, so it may not get the same texture and flavor from the grill.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No worries! You can use a grill pan or even a regular skillet over medium heat. Just cook the pineapple rings for 2-3 minutes on each side until caramelized and heated through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can grill the pineapple in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently before serving for the best texture.

What are the best toppings to enhance this dish?

Fresh lime zest, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, vanilla ice cream, and caramel sauce are my favorite toppings. They all bring out different layers of flavor and add texture contrasts.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe has become my go-to treat when I want to impress guests or just treat myself to something fresh and sweet without fuss. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the simple joys of cooking—the smell, the sizzle, and that first juicy bite. I hope when you try it, you get that same little burst of tropical happiness I always do.