Name: Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 ripe pineapple; 2/3 cup brown sugar, lightly packed; 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) salted butter, melted; 3 tbsp lime juice (about two small limes); 3/4 tsp coconut extract; 2 tsp flaky sea salt; lime zest; vanilla ice cream; caramel sauce

There’s something truly magical about the combination of caramelized pineapple, zesty lime, and creamy coconut, don’t you think? This Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe transforms a simple fruit into a juicy, tropical delight you'll want to make again and again.

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 remember the first time I grilled pineapple — the grill marks, the sweet aroma mixed with a hint of coconut—it was like summer on a plate. This recipe brings out the best of that juicy fruit with a tangy twist that’s so refreshing, you’ll want to share it at every BBQ or weekend treat.

Simple yet impressive: You only need a handful of ingredients, but the flavors feel rich and layered.
Perfect balance: The sweet caramelized pineapple works beautifully with the tart lime and fragrant coconut extract.
Quick & versatile: Ready in just minutes, it can be a dessert, side, or even a snack anytime.
Great for all skill levels: Whether you’re a grill novice or seasoned pro, it’s difficult to mess this up.

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 with Lime and Coconut Recipe is carefully chosen to build those tropical flavors we crave. You’ll want a ripe pineapple that’s sweet and juicy, and the brown sugar and butter help create that perfect caramelization on the grill.

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: Look for one that smells sweet at the base and has a slight give when pressed—this ensures it’s perfectly ripe.
Brown sugar: Adds deep sweetness and helps achieve that gorgeous caramel color on the grill.
Salted butter: Gives richness and a subtle salty touch that balances the pineapple’s sweetness.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed is best for bright acidity that cuts through the sweet crust.
Coconut extract: A little goes a long way in adding that luscious tropical flavor vibe.
Flaky sea salt: Sprinkled on last minute to add texture and punch, making every bite sing.

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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 this recipe as is, but feel free to experiment with it! Sometimes I swap the coconut extract for fresh shredded coconut sprinkled on top, or add a dash of cayenne for an unexpected kick that’s wildly addictive. You can tailor it exactly to your taste.

Variation: Adding a drizzle of honey or caramel sauce on top transforms it into a decadent dessert. I once served it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and it was an instant crowd-pleaser.
Dietary tweaks: If you’re avoiding butter, coconut oil works wonderfully and enhances that tropical feel.
Seasonal twist: Swap lime juice for fresh orange juice in winter to brighten it up differently.

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

Step 1: Prep Your Pineapple for Maximum Flavor

Start by peeling and coring your pineapple, then slice it into about ½ inch thick rings. I usually get a dozen slices from a medium pineapple. Keep the slices uniform so they grill evenly. Don’t toss the core — you can save it for smoothies!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Magical Marinade

In a bowl, whisk the brown sugar, melted salted butter, lime juice, and coconut extract until smooth. This mixture gives the pineapple its luscious, caramelized glaze. Make sure the butter is fully melted so everything blends evenly.

Step 3: Brush, Salt, and Fire Up the Grill

Brush both sides of each pineapple ring liberally with the marinade. Then sprinkle flaky sea salt on top—that crunch paired with sweetness is key to this recipe. Heat your grill to medium (about 300-350°F) and get ready to char those beauties.

Step 4: Grill Quickly for Juicy, Caramelized Perfection

Grill each pineapple slice for 2-3 minutes per side. You’re looking for golden caramelization and grill marks, but be careful not to overcook or they’ll lose their juiciness. Keep an eye on them—pineapple sugars can burn quickly!

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Plate immediately while warm. This is when the flavors shine brightest! Add any extra toppings you like—lime zest, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce all work beautifully here.

Top Tip

I’ve made this Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe dozens of times now, and some small tweaks make a big difference. Here are a few nuggets I picked up along the way that’ll help you get it just right.

Don’t skip the flaky sea salt: It adds a crunchy, briny pop that balances the sweet caramelization. Trust me, it’s the finishing touch your taste buds will thank you for.
Use fresh lime juice: Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness and zing. Fresh limes make the pineapple sing with vibrant tang.
Keep an eye on the grill: Pineapple sugars burn fast. Flip as soon as you see nice grill marks and that golden color.
Butter consistency matters: Make sure it’s fully melted before mixing so your glaze spreads smoothly and evenly.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with a sprinkle of fresh lime zest—it adds just a hint of brightness that complements the grilled fruit perfectly. And on special days, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over warm pineapple? Pure bliss. Sometimes I drizzle a little caramel sauce on top for extra richness.

Side Dishes

This grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for an easy weeknight meal. I often serve it alongside coconut rice or a fresh green salad to keep things light and tropical. It’s also a crowd-pleaser as a fresh, fruity side at BBQs.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try stacking the pineapple rings into a small tower or laying them on a large platter sprinkled with toasted coconut flakes and chopped mint. You can also skewer the slices on bamboo sticks for fun, easy-to-eat grilled pineapple kebabs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe fresh, I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pineapple stays juicy, but I recommend reheating briefly to restore some of that warm, caramelized goodness.

Freezing

I’ve had good luck freezing grilled pineapple for up to 6 months. It’s perfect if you want to prep ahead or save some for hot days—thaw them a bit and enjoy as a cool treat, almost like a tropical popsicle.

Reheating

To keep the best texture and flavor, I reheat grilled pineapple slices in a hot skillet or quick blast in the oven. Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to make the pineapple watery instead of caramelized and firm.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make the grilled pineapple without a grill?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, use a grill pan on your stovetop or even a regular skillet over medium heat. Cook the pineapple slices about 2-3 minutes per side, just like on the grill, until caramelized and softened.

How ripe should the pineapple be?

For this recipe, choose a pineapple that’s ripe but still firm. It should have a sweet aroma at the base and give slightly when pressed. Too underripe and it won’t caramelize well; too ripe and it might become mushy on the grill.

Can I use fresh coconut instead of coconut extract?

Yes, you can sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on the pineapple after grilling to add coconut flavor and texture. However, coconut extract is more concentrated and infuses the glaze with deeper flavor during grilling. Feel free to try both!

What toppings pair well with this grilled pineapple?

Some of my favorite toppings include fresh lime zest for brightness, a scoop of vanilla ice cream for creaminess, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for indulgence. You can also sprinkle chopped mint or toasted coconut for extra flair.

Final Thoughts

I always come back to this Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe when I want something quick, tasty, and a little tropical. It’s a versatile recipe that’s as great on a cozy weeknight as it is at a summer cookout. Give it a try — I’m confident you’ll be as hooked on that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and salty as I am.