This dessert is simplicity done right—nothing fussy, just bold flavor and tropical vibes. From prep to plate, it’s one of the quickest ways to end a BBQ on a high note.
Grilled Pineapple Delight
Tom Jackson
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Dessert
Cuisine
American
Servings
4
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Calories
461
Grilled Pineapple Delight takes sweet fresh pineapple and transforms it into something smoky, caramelized, and utterly indulgent. With a quick sear over high heat, each spear develops a golden crust before it’s tossed into creamy vanilla yogurt and topped with crunchy coconut flakes.
Ingredients
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 32 oz vanilla yogurt
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut flake
Directions
Preheat Your Grill
Fire up your grill or smoker (like a Yoder YS640) to 400°F over direct heat.
Prepare the Pineapple
- Using a sharp chef’s knife, slice off the rind.
- Cut the flesh into uniform spears or wedges.
Toast the Coconut
- Spread coconut flakes in a thin layer on a sheet pan.
- Place the pan directly on the grill grates and watch carefully. Once tan (about 2–5 minutes), remove to cool.
Grill the Pineapple
Grill pineapple spears over direct heat, 3–4 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and edges lightly caramelize. Transfer to a clean surface.
Combine & Serve
- Dice the grilled pineapple.
- In a bowl, stir together yogurt, diced pineapple, and most of the toasted coconut.
- Reserve a handful of pineapple and coconut for garnish. Serve chilled.

Recipe Note
What You’ll Love
Bold fireworks with minimal effort—sweet, smoky pineapple meets creamy vanilla yogurt and toasted coconut for a trifecta of flavor and texture.
Cool, creamy balance—the chilled yogurt cuts the pineapple’s heat and caramel, creating a soothing tropical bite.
Textural contrast—soft fruit, creamy base, and crisp coconut make every spoonful exciting.
Fast, shareable, crowd-pleasing—ready in under 20 minutes and ideal for warm-weather cookouts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of vanilla yogurt?
Yes—even plain Greek yogurt works. For sweetness, drizzle in honey or maple syrup if using unsweetened varieties.
How long do I grill the pineapple?
Typically 3–4 minutes per side over direct heat at 400°F. You’re aiming for light caramelization and softening—not mush.
Can I bake or toast the coconut in the oven?
Absolutely—spread the flakes on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for ~5 minutes, stirring halfway until just golden.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes—assemble the base and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before garnishing and serving.
Can I cook these indoors?
We rate these as a 2 out of 5. Can be done inside, but loses key flavor or texture.
Nutrition
Nutrition
- Serving Size
- 17.49 oz
- per serving
- Calories
- 461
- Carbs
- 47 grams
- Protein
- 16 grams
- Fat
- 23 grams
- Sodium
- 159 milligrams