Introduction
I make these grilled fruit skewers with honey cinnamon glaze every time we fire up the grill in the summer, and they always disappear first. Grilling the fruit brings out a natural caramelized sweetness you just can’t get from raw fruit, and the honey cinnamon glaze takes it over the top. These only take a few minutes on the grill, so they’re easy to throw together while the main dish is cooking. They’re great for backyard barbecues, summer parties, or even a simple dessert after dinner. If you love fruit on skewers, you’ll also want to try these chocolate drizzled fruit kabobs for a more indulgent version that’s equally simple and stunning.
How to Make Grilled Fruit Skewers With Honey Cinnamon Glaze (Quick Overview)
To make these grilled fruit skewers with honey cinnamon glaze, thread chunks of pineapple, peaches, and other firm fruit onto skewers, brush with a honey cinnamon glaze, then grill for a few minutes per side until lightly charred. The whole thing takes about 15 minutes from start to finish.
About the Ingredients
Pineapple
Pineapple is one of the best fruits for grilling because it holds its shape and caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The natural sugars get even sweeter once they hit the heat, making it a perfect fit for these grilled fruit skewers.
Peaches
Firm, ripe peaches grill up soft and juicy with a slightly smoky edge. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines work just as well in this honey cinnamon fruit kabob recipe.
Honey
Honey is the base of the glaze and adds natural sweetness that caramelizes nicely on the grill. Maple syrup can be used as a substitute if you prefer. Honey is one of nature’s most versatile natural sweeteners — according to Eat Right’s guide to natural sweeteners, honey contains trace antioxidants and has a lower glycemic impact than refined sugar when used in small amounts, making it a smart choice for a glaze in these grilled fruit skewers with honey cinnamon glaze. If you love honey as a finishing touch on warm fruit desserts, it also pairs beautifully with our no-churn mango coconut ice cream — a drizzle over the top turns it into a stunning summer dessert combination.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the glaze, balancing out the sweetness of the fruit. A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Butter
A small amount of melted butter helps the glaze stick to the fruit and adds richness as it melts into the warm fruit on the grill.
Tips and Tricks
Cut all the fruit into similar-sized chunks so the grilled fruit skewers cook evenly and look neat on the plate.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling so they don’t burn.
Brush the glaze on right before grilling and again partway through cooking for the best flavor and shine.
Pro Tips
For extra flavor, add a splash of orange juice or a squeeze of lime to the honey cinnamon glaze for a little brightness.
Use a grill basket or foil with holes poked in it if you’re worried about smaller fruit pieces falling through the grates of these grilled fruit skewers with honey cinnamon glaze.
Don’t overcook the fruit — a few minutes per side is enough to get those grill marks without turning the fruit mushy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, melted butter, and cinnamon to make the glaze.
- Cut the pineapple and peaches into similar-sized chunks.
- Thread the fruit onto the skewers, alternating pineapple and peach pieces.
- Brush the skewers generously with the honey cinnamon glaze.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the grilled fruit skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, brushing with more glaze, until lightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and serve warm, with extra glaze drizzled over the top if desired.
Variations
For a tropical version of these grilled fruit skewers with honey cinnamon glaze, add chunks of mango or banana to the skewers.
If you don’t have a grill, these can be cooked in a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
For a dessert twist, serve the warm skewers over vanilla ice cream or with a dollop of whipped cream.
You can swap the cinnamon for a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor profile in the glaze.
For added crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the skewers right after grilling.
How to Store
These honey cinnamon fruit kabobs are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat briefly in a skillet over medium heat or enjoy cold straight from the fridge.
The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week, then warmed slightly before brushing onto the fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fruit works best for grilling?
Firm fruits like pineapple, peaches, nectarines, and apples hold up best on the grill for these grilled fruit skewers with honey cinnamon glaze.
Can I make these without a grill?
Yes, a grill pan on the stovetop works great if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
Should I soak wooden skewers before grilling?
Yes, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes so they don’t burn or catch fire on the grill.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the honey cinnamon glaze can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to use.
Are these skewers good for kids?
Yes, just make sure to remove the skewer sticks before serving to younger kids, or use blunt-end skewers.
Can I add other fruits to these skewers?
Absolutely — mango, banana, and even strawberries work well in this honey cinnamon fruit kabob recipe, though softer fruits may need less grilling time.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, these grilled fruit skewers are made with simple, wholesome ingredients and naturally sweetened with honey, making them a healthier dessert or snack option.
What can I serve alongside these for a party dessert spread?
These grilled fruit skewers with honey cinnamon glaze pair beautifully alongside our rainbow fruit kabobs with marshmallow dip for a complete fresh fruit dessert station that works for all ages.
Grilled Fruit Skewers With Honey Cinnamon Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, melted butter, and cinnamon to make the glaze.
- Cut the pineapple and peaches into similar-sized chunks.
- Thread the fruit onto the skewers, alternating pineapple and peach pieces.
- Brush the skewers generously with the honey cinnamon glaze.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, brushing with more glaze, until lightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and serve warm, with extra glaze drizzled over the top if desired.