The Best Brazilian Grilled Pineapple Recipe Everyone Will Love

There’s something special about Brazilian grilled pineapple.

It’s sweet, smoky, juicy; and just the right amount of caramelized. 

Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ or just want a quick dessert off the grill, this simple treat brings a bold tropical twist that everyone will rave about.

Here’s how to make the best Brazilian grilled pineapple recipe; with just a few ingredients and no fuss.

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What Is Brazilian Grilled Pineapple?

Brazilian grilled pineapple, also known as “abacaxi grelhado,” is a 

classic treat often served at churrascarias (Brazilian steakhouses).

You’ll usually see it roasted on skewers and brushed with a brown sugar-cinnamon glaze.

The heat of the grill caramelizes the sugars and brings out the pineapple’s natural sweetness.

The result: a warm, juicy, slightly crispy edge that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients You'll Need

This recipe keeps it simple.

All you need is:

• 1 fresh, ripe pineapple

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• Optional: A pinch of cayenne for a little heat

You don’t need oil or butter; pineapple has enough juice to stay moist on the grill.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pineapple

Start by cutting off the top, bottom, and skin.

Slice the pineapple into spears or thick rings, depending on your grill setup.

Remove the core if you like a softer bite.

Make the Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.

Add a pinch of cayenne if you want a spicy twist; it won’t overpower, but it adds depth.

Coat the Pineapple

Roll each slice or spear in the sugar mix until well covered.

Let it sit for a few minutes so the coating starts to soak in.

Preheat and Clean the Grill

Get your grill nice and hot; medium-high heat works best.

Clean your grates to avoid sticking or burnt sugar.

If your grill has leftover residue from previous BBQs, this is where a wooden grill scraper is safer than a wire brush.

Tools like the Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper do the job well without leaving behind bristles.

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Grill the Pineapple

Place the coated pineapple directly on the grill grates.

Let them cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, turning gently with tongs.

You want deep grill marks and golden brown edges; watch closely so the sugar doesn’t burn.

Serve Warm

Serve the pineapple warm off the grill.

You can enjoy it as-is, or top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, coconut whipped cream, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes.

Grilled pineapple is also a great dessert after savory meals like BBQ chicken.

If you're planning a full cookout menu, check out this helpful guide on what to serve with barbeque chicken to round out your meal.

Tips for Extra Flavor

• Marinate longer: Let the pineapple sit in the sugar mix for 20 minutes before grilling to deepen the flavor.

• Add citrus: A splash of lime or orange juice over the top before grilling adds a zesty finish.

• Try rum glaze: Mix dark rum with brown sugar and cinnamon for a boozy glaze before grilling.

If you’re looking for more tasty and easy grill ideas to pair with this dessert, explore these easy gas grill recipes anyone can try for tasty meals from our blog at Behind The Grill.

Why This Recipe Works

Grilling pineapple brings out its best qualities.

The natural sugars caramelize under heat, creating a lightly crisp outside and soft, juicy inside. 

The cinnamon-sugar combo adds warmth and richness.

And because it’s so simple, you don’t need fancy ingredients; just a good pineapple and a hot grill.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.

It’s also a great way to impress guests without a ton of effort.

Perfect For Any BBQ or Weeknight Treat

Whether you're firing up the grill for steak or just want a sweet finish, grilled pineapple pairs well with anything.

It’s especially great after grilled meats, offering a fresh and fruity balance to heavier dishes.

If you're new to grilling fruits, this is a perfect place to start; it’s nearly foolproof and sure to wow the crowd.

Looking to take your grilling experience to the next level?

Click the image to check out our full line of BBQ tools and accessories that help you grill smarter, cleaner, and easier—only from Easy Function.

P.S. We regularly publish new recipes and grilling tips. Here’s the most recent one: The Best Grilled Pineapple Chicken Recipe for Busy Weeknights