Cinnamon pineapple is a tropical-inspired treat that blends the juicy, sweet taste of fresh pineapple with the comforting spice of cinnamon. This vibrant dish takes cues from Caribbean and Latin American cuisines, where fruit and aromatic spices often go hand in hand. No matter if you grill, bake, or sauté it, the heat helps to caramelize the pineapple’s natural sugars, taking its flavor to a whole new level.
Many people appreciate just how easy and adaptable cinnamon pineapple is to make. It works great as a quick weeknight dessert or as a warm, inviting dish at a summer cookout. Whichever way you serve it, the irresistible scent of cinnamon and pineapple will have everyone gathering in the kitchen.
Why This Cinnamon Pineapple Recipe Shines
This recipe is a winner because it’s both quick and versatile. Perfect for both everyday family dinners and parties, it easily fits into both dessert and side dish roles. Plus, the uplifting aroma of cinnamon adds a special touch. If you’re a fan of recipes that blur the boundaries between breakfast and dessert, you’ll love exploring more like this in our breakfast & dessert ideas.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make cinnamon pineapple, you’ll need:
- 1 fresh pineapple (or substitute with drained canned rings)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey, maple syrup)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil
- Small pinch of salt
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, clove, or ginger
- Cooking spray or oil for grilling or roasting
Brown sugar is easily swapped for honey, agave, or maple syrup. For a dairy-free version, coconut oil works perfectly. Fresh pineapple delivers the best flavor, but canned will do in a pinch—just make sure it’s packed in juice, not syrup. You can prepare this recipe on a grill, oven, or stovetop. For more inspiration, try pairing it with global flavors such as these Vietnamese appetizers.
Choosing the Best Pineapple
Choose a ripe pineapple that feels slightly soft, smells sweet at the base, and shows golden yellow color on the skin. Healthy leaves should pull away with little effort. Avoid pineapples with bruises, soft spots, or an off smell.
Cinnamon Types and Spice Add-ins
Ground cinnamon mixes easily and covers the pineapple well, but you can use cinnamon sticks for more depth during cooking. Extra spices like nutmeg, clove, or ginger can give the dish a unique twist. If you’re planning a summer party, create a tropical menu by serving it alongside some fun skewered appetizers.
How to Make Cinnamon Pineapple: Step by Step
Making cinnamon pineapple is simple and works for the grill, oven, or skillet:
- Prepare the Pineapple: Remove the skin and core, then slice into ½-inch thick pieces or spears. Canned pineapple should be well drained.
- Mix the Coating: In a bowl, combine your sweetener of choice, cinnamon, melted butter or coconut oil, salt, and any extra spices until you have a loose paste.
- Coat the Fruit: Lay your pineapple pieces in a tray or bowl, pour the mixture over, and gently toss so each piece is evenly covered.
- Cook Your Way:
- Grill: Preheat to medium-high, oil lightly, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until you see grill marks and caramelization.
- Oven: Set to 425°F (220°C), line a tray, roast pineapple pieces for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and sizzling.
- Skillet: Heat on medium, add pineapple, and cook 2–3 minutes each side until browned and fragrant.
- Serve: Serve immediately while warm. Cinnamon pineapple is delicious on its own, atop ice cream, with pancakes, yogurt, or even a fresh mint garnish.
Tips for the Best Results
- Make sure pieces are not crowded to avoid steaming.
- Go for fully ripe pineapple for more sweetness.
- Tweak spice levels to your liking.
- Keep pineapple still on the grill for deeper marks.
- Pat pieces dry before coating to help the mix stick.
Shortcuts and Make-Ahead Hints
Slice and coat pineapple in advance to save time, refrigerate up to a day before cooking, or rely on pre-cut pineapple from the store. For more easy meal-prep ideas, try a cozy bowl like our healthy cream of rice bowl.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Cinnamon pineapple can be enjoyed many ways:
- Warm, as a snack or dessert
- Over vanilla ice cream for a sundae
- On pancakes or waffles at breakfast
- With yogurt and granola as a quick parfait
- As a side at barbecues with grilled meats
- Stirred into your morning oatmeal
Variation Ideas:
- Add chili or cayenne for heat
- Sprinkle with coconut for a tropical touch
- Finish with rum or bourbon for an adult treat
- Use coconut oil and plant-based sweeteners for a vegan version
Great for parties and special gatherings, this dish also brings a sunny vibe to winter meals. On colder days, serve it with hearty, allergy-friendly options like our gluten-free, dairy-free soups.
Health Benefits and Nutrition Info
Cinnamon pineapple is not just tasty—it’s good for you. Pineapple provides vitamin C to support immunity, is a rich source of fiber for digestion, and contains bromelain, which may help reduce inflammation. It’s naturally low in fat and sugars, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without overindulging. If you want to learn more about the healthiness of pineapple and cinnamon, check out this helpful article on pineapple benefits or cinnamon benefits (external link).
Cinnamon itself contains antioxidants and may help keep blood sugar levels even. The combo of pineapple and cinnamon creates a special dessert that works well in most diets.
If you’d like to lighten it further, cut back on the sugar or use a natural option like honey. For those with allergies, coconut oil makes it dairy-free, and be sure to check your spices.
Nutritional facts per serving (with fresh pineapple):
- About 120 calories
- 1 gram protein
- 2 grams fat (if using coconut oil)
- 30 grams carbs
- 22 grams sugar
- 3 grams fiber
These are estimates—toppings or serving size might affect totals. This treat fits beautifully in a healthy, balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to fry pineapple?
Pineapple generally needs 2–3 minutes per side in a skillet over medium heat. Watch for golden brown color and caramelized edges. Don’t overcook, or it might become mushy.
Is roasted pineapple healthy?
Yes! Roasting keeps much of the fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. The fruit becomes sweeter, letting you use less added sugar.
How do you make spiced pineapple?
Just toss pineapple with cinnamon, sugar or honey, and a hint of nutmeg or ginger. Cook until caramelized—either roast, grill, or sauté—adjusting spices to preference.
How to serve cinnamon pineapple hot?
Coat pineapple with the cinnamon-sugar mix. Grill or sauté for a few minutes until hot and golden. Serve right away, perhaps over ice cream or pancakes.
Storing and Reheating Cinnamon Pineapple
Cool any remaining pineapple and store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For long-term storage, freeze pieces on a sheet, then bag or box them for up to 2 months. You can enjoy these leftovers in creative ways, such as mixing them into yogurt or repurposing as a topping for cakes. For more sweet ideas, browse our vintage cake recipes.
To reheat, use the microwave for about a minute or a skillet over low heat. This brings back its flavor and moisture.
Use up leftovers by stirring into oatmeal, topping desserts, or blending into yogurt bowls and smoothies.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon pineapple is a recipe that brings genuine joy with little effort. It’s budget-friendly, satisfying, and easy to adapt for different tastes. Even on the busiest nights, it’s quick to make and fills your home with a warm, inviting scent. Experiment with new spices and serving ideas as you wish.
Be sure to give this recipe a try! Share your own twists or questions—my family can’t get enough when it’s served hot and fresh.