Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe is the kind of simple yet unforgettable dish that turns heads at any cookout. With just a few ingredients—fresh pineapple, cinnamon, and brown sugar—you get an irresistible blend of smoky char and golden caramelization. Whether you’ve tasted it at a Brazilian steakhouse or this is your first time, grilling pineapple brings out a flavor that’s bold, juicy, and full of tropical joy. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make it, how long to grill pineapple, and why this fiery-sweet treat belongs at the center of your next BBQ spread.
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The Story Behind This Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe
I still remember my first experience at a Brazilian steakhouse. The parade of meats was impressive, sure—but it was the grilled pineapple that truly won me over. Slightly charred, cinnamon-spiced, and impossibly juicy, it stole the spotlight. I had never tasted fruit that felt both indulgent and refreshing at once.
Back home, I couldn’t shake that flavor from my memory. So I set out to recreate that Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe in my own backyard. The beauty is in its simplicity: no sauces, no marinades—just fresh pineapple, brown sugar, and a dash of cinnamon, kissed by open flame.
As I grilled it again and again, I realized this dish isn’t just delicious—it’s a conversation piece. Whether served with slow-cooked mains like these summer slow cooker favorites or next to a cozy sweet bite like air fryer banana bread, this pineapple brings a taste of joy and tropical nostalgia to every meal.
Why This Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe Works So Well
This recipe thrives on contrast. The sugars caramelize against the hot grill, forming a golden crust that locks in juicy flavor. Meanwhile, the cinnamon adds warmth that balances the fruit’s natural brightness. The process is quick—just 10 to 15 minutes—but the results are unforgettable.
You don’t need special equipment, either. A sharp knife, a grill, and maybe some skewers are all it takes. You can grill slices, rounds, or even spears depending on your setup. However you serve it, this Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe always earns compliments.
Another bonus? It works as a side dish, a palate cleanser, or a guilt-free dessert. And if you’re short on time, there are shortcuts using an air fryer or grill pan. But when you do it over fire, it becomes something more than just grilled fruit—it becomes a moment worth remembering.
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Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe (Better Than Dessert!) That Everyone Will Love
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Dessert, Grilled Recipes
- Cuisine: Brazilian, Latin American
Description
This Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe brings together smoky char, sweet cinnamon sugar, and juicy tropical flavor. Grilled to golden perfection in just minutes, it’s a steakhouse classic you can recreate at home.
Ingredients
1 whole ripe pineapple
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or grapeseed)
Instructions
Slice the top and bottom off the pineapple. Stand it upright and trim the skin in strips. Remove the eyes.
Cut the pineapple into spears, thick rounds, or rings, depending on your grill setup.
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll or sprinkle the mixture evenly over the pineapple.
Lightly brush each piece with neutral oil to prevent sticking.
Preheat grill to medium-high. Oil the grates or use foil/grill mat.
Grill pineapple pieces for 10–15 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes until caramelized and lightly charred.
Serve warm with optional lime drizzle, a scoop of ice cream, or next to grilled meats.
Notes
Apply cinnamon sugar right before grilling to prevent sogginess.
For extra flavor, brush with coconut rum glaze while grilling.
Air fryer alternative: 380°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.
Excellent as a sweet side dish or unique dessert option.
Avoid overcooking to prevent burnt sugar and dry pineapple.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 servings
- Calories: 140 calories
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
How to Make Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe Perfectly
Ingredients and Preparation Tips for Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe
A successful Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe starts with the right pineapple. Always choose a fresh, ripe one—look for a golden shell with a sweet aroma at the base. Canned or pre-cut pineapple won’t give you the same juicy texture or caramelized finish.
Start by cutting off both the top and bottom of the pineapple. Stand it up, then carefully shave off the skin in long vertical strips. Remove any remaining eyes using the tip of a paring knife. You can then cut it into spears, thick rings, or rounds depending on your grill style. For that signature Brazilian flavor, coat the pieces in a cinnamon-sugar blend made from brown sugar and a dash of cinnamon—just enough to create a golden crust when grilled.
This sweet spice mixture clings perfectly to the pineapple, helping it caramelize and sizzle beautifully on the grill.
Tools you’ll need:
- A sharp chef’s knife
- A grill (charcoal or gas)
- Tongs or skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
If you love savory BBQs like this grilled corned beef brisket, this pineapple makes the perfect sweet contrast.
Grilling Brazilian Pineapple the Right Way
The best part of the Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe is watching that golden crust form. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean and lightly oil the grates using a paper towel dipped in neutral oil held with tongs. This step helps prevent sticking without overpowering the fruit’s flavor.
Position the pineapple slices directly over the heat or slide them onto skewers if preferred. Let them grill until golden brown and deeply fragrant—typically between ten and fifteen minutes, flipping them every few minutes for even coloring.
Since pineapple browns quickly due to its natural sugars, keep a close eye and rotate pieces frequently to avoid burning.
If you want a similar effect indoors, you can try a broiler or grill pan, but nothing matches the fire-kissed edge of open-flame grilling. For more creative BBQ side ideas, check out these corn ribs made in the air fryer.
Timing tips:
| Thickness | Time per side | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| Spears | 2 to 3 min | 10 to 12 min |
| Rounds | 3 to 4 min | 12 to 15 min |
| Whole (rotisserie) | 5 min | 15 to 20 min |
Watch for flare-ups, especially when the sugar drips onto the flames. If your grill has uneven heat zones, shift the pineapple to prevent charring and ensure an even finish.
When it’s ready, your pineapple should be golden, glossy, and lightly charred. The smell will scream tropical paradise, and the taste will absolutely deliver.
Flavor, Tradition & Serving Tips for Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe
Why They Serve Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe at Steakhouses
One of the most iconic parts of the Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe is its surprising role at traditional churrascarias. Unlike typical sides, grilled pineapple offers both function and flavor. Rich in the enzyme bromelain, it helps break down proteins—making it easier to digest the endless servings of meat.
But beyond digestion, its sweet and tangy flavor acts as a natural palate cleanser. After a juicy steak or smoky sausage, one bite of this warm pineapple refreshes your taste buds and resets your appetite. That’s exactly why it’s served in between meat courses at many Brazilian steakhouses.
It’s more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. With each rotation over the fire, the cinnamon-sugar coating bubbles into a caramel crust, creating a dish that’s both rustic and elegant.
For a perfect summer BBQ lineup, pair it with light mains like this air fryer trout recipe or enjoy it after a hearty meal topped off with this air fryer s’mores dip.
Best Ways to Serve Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe
Once your Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe is grilled and glistening, there are countless ways to serve it. You can slice it into smaller pieces and serve it as a side with grilled meats or pile it up as a dessert centerpiece at your table.
Here are a few creative ways to enjoy it:
- As a Side Dish: Serve it warm alongside savory dishes. It pairs perfectly with smoky meats, grilled vegetables, or slow-cooked recipes.
- As a Dessert: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey-lime syrup for a tropical treat that feels indulgent yet fresh.
- As a Breakfast Topper: Leftover pineapple? Chop it and spoon it over yogurt or pancakes the next morning.
You can even slice it thin and layer it into a BBQ taco, or tuck pieces into sandwiches for a juicy kick.
For gatherings, consider offering it on skewers with other fruits or even next to savory nibbles like chicken and waffles—the contrast will spark conversation and delight your guests.
Whether served solo or as part of a larger spread, this grilled pineapple brings brightness, sweetness, and a touch of smoky magic to any table.
Expert Tips & Variations for Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe
How to Avoid Sticky Pineapple Disasters on the Grill
Grilling pineapple can feel effortless when you sidestep a few common missteps. A frequent issue in the Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe is that the sugary coating can easily burn or adhere to the grill grates. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to prevent that and keep your pineapple picture-perfect.
Start by brushing each slice with a thin layer of neutral oil before it hits the grill. This not only adds a subtle shine but also creates a clean separation between the fruit and the hot metal grates. Another great tip is to lightly mist the grill with high-heat spray just before cooking.
If your grill tends to flare up or runs a bit too hot, use a grill mat or wrap the pineapple in foil. You’ll still get lovely caramelization without risking a direct flame burn. Foil also gives you better control over browning without losing that signature grilled texture.
When using a cinnamon-sugar coating, be sure to apply it just before cooking. If left to sit too long, the fruit can become overly wet, and the sugar might begin caramelizing prematurely, which can lead to scorching.
Keep your grill temperature steady and at medium heat. Too high, and your pineapple might blacken before it cooks through. Flip every few minutes to ensure even caramelization without burning.
Looking for another tropical dish that’s fast and grill-free? These air fryer banana chips offer a perfect balance of crunch and sweetness in under 10 minutes.
Delicious Variations to Try with Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe
Once you’ve nailed the base Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe, the door opens to all sorts of fun and flavorful customizations. Pineapple pairs beautifully with everything from smoky heat to creamy toppings.
Try these irresistible twists:
- Coconut Rum Glaze: Combine melted coconut oil, dark rum, and maple syrup. Brush generously before and during grilling for a tropical flair.
- Chili-Cinnamon Kick: Stir a pinch of cayenne into your cinnamon-sugar blend to add a gentle heat that balances the sweetness.
- Zesty Lime Drizzle: A squeeze of fresh lime just before serving brightens the whole dish.
- Bourbon Vanilla Dip: Serve alongside a creamy dip made with bourbon, vanilla, and whipped yogurt or cream.
- Tropical Skewers: Alternate pineapple with banana or mango chunks on skewers and grill for an easy dessert platter.
If you’re cooking indoors or avoiding outdoor grilling, this recipe adapts easily to air fryer or oven methods. Just preheat your air fryer to 380°F, lay the coated pineapple on parchment or foil, and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning.
Need more inspiration for pairing sweet and savory? This chicken and waffles air fryer recipe brings that same delicious balance to the table with crispy texture and cozy flavor.
No matter which variation you choose, adding new flavors to your Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe keeps things exciting and makes every bite feel like a special occasion.
Why This Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe Belongs on Your Grill
The Brazilian BBQ Pineapple Recipe isn’t just a side dish—it’s a celebration of flavor, fire, and simplicity. Whether you’re grilling for a summer crowd or adding something special to a weeknight dinner, this tropical treat brings a vibrant touch to your table. With its caramelized edges, juicy sweetness, and warm spice, it’s easy to see why it’s a Brazilian steakhouse staple—and why you’ll want to make it again and again.
Pair it with savory mains, serve it as dessert, or use it as your go-to wow-factor at BBQs. Either way, this grilled pineapple will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes—just like it did in my kitchen.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long to grill Brazilian pineapple?
Grill pineapple slices for 10 to 15 minutes total, flipping every 2 to 3 minutes. You want caramelized edges and golden grill marks without burning the sugars.
Why do they serve pineapple at Brazilian Steakhouse?
Brazilian steakhouses serve grilled pineapple to cleanse the palate and aid digestion. The bromelain enzyme helps break down proteins, while the sweetness offers a refreshing contrast to heavy meats.
How do you keep pineapples from sticking to the grill?
Lightly coat the pineapple with oil before grilling. You can also oil the grates or use a grill mat or foil to reduce direct contact with flames.
How long to cook pineapple on the barbecue?
Cook time on a barbecue is typically 12–15 minutes depending on the thickness of the slices. Rotate frequently to avoid burning and achieve even browning.
Welcome to Yumi Meals!
I’m Yumi, and this space is a heartfelt extension of my lifelong love for cooking. What began in my grandmother’s kitchen has become a journey of sharing soulful, approachable recipes that celebrate connection, tradition, and creativity. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, I hope Yumi Meals brings warmth and inspiration to your table.
