Get ready to turn your next meal or gathering into a sweet and smoky celebration with these irresistible Pineapple Skewers! A handful of pantry staples—think brown sugar, honey, a whisper of cinnamon, and a zing of lime—elevate fresh, juicy pineapple to pure magic, sizzling and caramelizing on the grill. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a playful (and secretly healthy) dessert, Pineapple Skewers are guaranteed to be a show-stealer. Friends and family will have no idea how effortless these are to make—you’ll just have to be ready to share the recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Pineapple Skewers lies in their simplicity. Every ingredient plays a starring role, from the tangy tropical fruit to the subtle spices, caramel-like sweetness, and fresh garnishes. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few handy tips for the best flavor and presentation.
- Pineapple: Fresh, peeled, cored, and cut into chunks—ripe pineapple delivers the juiciest, most flavorful results.
- Brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses sweetness that helps with caramelization on the grill.
- Lime juice: Brightens the dish and balances the sweetness with a citrusy zing.
- Honey or maple syrup: Either works—these natural sweeteners add gloss and subtle complexity.
- Ground cinnamon: Just a touch infuses the skewers with warm, cozy spice.
- Pinch of salt: Don’t skip it! A little salt makes every other flavor pop.
- Chopped fresh mint or toasted coconut (optional): Garnishes for a burst of color and extra tropical flair.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Wooden skewers need a soak in water to avoid burning; metal skewers can be used again and again.
How to Make Pineapple Skewers
Step 1: Whisk the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until everything is thoroughly blended—the mixture should be syrupy and deeply fragrant. This is the flavor powerhouse that’s going to infuse the pineapple with sweet, tangy, and spicy notes.
Step 2: Marinate the Pineapple
Add the pineapple chunks to the bowl and toss gently to coat each piece with the marinade. Let the fruit soak up those wonderful flavors for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature. Don’t skip this step; a little patience rewards you with Pineapple Skewers that are bursting with taste in every bite.
Step 3: Prepare Your Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, now’s the perfect time to soak them in water for about 20 minutes to prevent scorching. Thread the marinated pineapple chunks evenly onto your skewers, allowing a bit of space between each piece so the grill’s heat can work its caramelizing magic.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the Pineapple Skewers directly on the grates and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning as needed, until the edges are caramelized and you see lovely grill marks. The sugars will bubble and char ever so slightly, bringing out the pineapples’ natural juiciness.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Remove from the grill and, while still warm, sprinkle with chopped fresh mint or a handful of toasted coconut if you like. These simple touches not only brighten the dish visually but add bursts of flavor that make your Pineapple Skewers extra special. Serve them warm or at room temperature—either way, they’ll disappear fast!
How to Serve Pineapple Skewers
Garnishes
A final flourish takes these skewers from tasty to unforgettable. Sprinkle on chopped fresh mint for a pop of green and a breezy aroma, or dust with toasted coconut for a tropical crunch that complements the soft, caramelized pineapple. You can even dust with a little extra cinnamon for warmth or add a squeeze of extra lime for those who love citrus.
Side Dishes
Pair your Pineapple Skewers with classic BBQ fare like grilled shrimp or chicken to bring out their tropical best, or serve alongside a crisp green salad to balance the sweetness. They’re just as happy sharing a plate with rice pilaf, coconut jasmine rice, or even smoky grilled corn for a summery spread that feels straight from the islands.
Creative Ways to Present
When it comes to presentation, Pineapple Skewers are pure fun. Try laying them on a rustic wooden platter, nestled among edible flowers or banana leaves for island vibes. For party bites, use mini skewers or toothpicks. Or build a tropical fruit platter around them with mango slices, strawberries, and kiwi for a rainbow effect that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have extra Pineapple Skewers, let them cool to room temperature, then slide the fruit off the skewers and store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and juicy for up to three days, perfect for snacking or quick desserts.
Freezing
While freshly grilled skewers shine brightest, you can freeze leftover pineapple pieces after grilling (just not on the skewers) for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy them chilled, add to smoothies, or reheat briefly for a warm treat.
Reheating
To rewarm Pineapple Skewers, place the fruit back on a grill pan or in a hot oven for just a few minutes until heated through—no need to recaramelize fully, just let them get nice and warm. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent them from getting mushy.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Absolutely—you can substitute canned pineapple chunks if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them very well and pat them dry so they don’t steam instead of caramelizing. The flavor and texture will differ slightly, but your Pineapple Skewers will still taste delicious!
How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling keeps them from catching fire, so don’t skip it. If you plan to make skewers often, consider picking up reusable metal skewers for an easy, worry-free option.
Can Pineapple Skewers be made without a grill?
Yes! You can cook Pineapple Skewers indoors using a grill pan or even under the broiler. Just keep a close eye and rotate them for even caramelization. You’ll get tasty results with a kitchen full of tropical aromas, minus the outdoor mess.
What proteins pair well with Pineapple Skewers?
Grilled shrimp and chicken are classic partners, turning Pineapple Skewers into an easy tropical main course. The sweet pineapples balance beautifully with savory, smoky flavors, making them perfect for surf and turf BBQs or summer cookouts.
Are Pineapple Skewers suitable for special diets?
Definitely! These skewers are gluten-free, vegetarian, and dairy-free by nature. Just double-check your sweetener if you’re cooking for vegans—maple syrup is a great choice. They’re light, full of flavor, and easily fit into a wide range of diets.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one way to bring a burst of sunshine to your table, it’s with Pineapple Skewers. They’re easy to assemble, utterly joyful to eat, and a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether for your next backyard BBQ or a weeknight treat, give these skewers a whirl—you’ll love the sweet, caramelized taste and the happy faces around your table!
Print
Pineapple Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 6 skewers 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free
Description
These Pineapple Skewers are a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and caramelized flavors, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish for any summer gathering. Grilled to perfection, these tropical skewers are a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite protein for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- pinch of salt
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh mint or toasted coconut
Additional:
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon, and salt. Add the pineapple chunks and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Skewer Pineapple: Thread pineapple chunks onto skewers.
- Grill: Grill for 2–3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until caramelized and slightly charred.
- Finish: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped mint or toasted coconut if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- These skewers also pair well with grilled shrimp or chicken for a tropical twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
