This grilled pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat, topped with a warm brown sugar and rum glaze! It’s the perfect dessert for summer get-togethers or just a cozy night at home.
Honestly, watching the pineapple caramelize on the grill is pure magic! 🍍 Nothing beats that sweet aroma wafting through the air. I always serve it with a scoop of ice cream—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor! Look for ones that are fragrant and have a slight give when pressed. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple can be used, but grill it without the syrup.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a deep caramel flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to mimic the taste.
Dark Rum: This ingredient gives the glaze its rich flavor. If you want a non-alcoholic version, use apple juice or pineapple juice for sweetness. For a lighter flavor, try white rum.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps balance the sweetness. Feel free to use coconut oil for a tropical twist or a dairy-free substitute if needed.
Cinnamon: This adds warmth and deliciousness. You can swap it with nutmeg or allspice for a different spice profile if you prefer.
How Do I Grill Pineapple Perfectly?
Grilling pineapple can be tricky if you want those lovely grill marks without burning it. Start by making sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This ensures a good sear without overcooking the inside.
- Cut your pineapple into 1/2 inch thick rings—too thin may fall through the grill, and too thick won’t cook evenly.
- Oil your grill grates lightly to prevent sticking. A paper towel dipped in oil works well to wipe the grates.
- Grill the pineapple for 3-4 minutes per side. Look for those beautiful caramelized marks!
- Don’t forget to brush the glaze during the last minute to let it caramelize—this is key for that sweet, sticky finish.
How to Make The Best Grilled Pineapple With Brown Sugar Rum Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
For the Brown Sugar Rum Glaze:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to grill, making a total of around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty treat that will impress your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
First, you’ll want to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your pineapple will cook evenly and get nice grill marks.
2. Cut the Pineapple:
Next, take your ripe pineapple and start by cutting off the top and bottom. Peel away the skin and remove the core. Then, slice the pineapple into rings that are about 1/2 inch thick. These rings are perfect for grilling!
3. Make the Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, dark rum, unsalted butter, ground cinnamon, and sea salt. Heat this mixture over medium heat. Stir it until it starts to bubble and the sugar dissolves, creating a sweet glaze. Once done, remove it from heat and set it aside.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Now, it’s time to grill! Lightly grease the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Place your pineapple slices on the grill and cook them for about 3–4 minutes on each side. Look for those beautiful grill marks and ensure the pineapple is tender.
5. Add the Glaze:
When your pineapple is almost done grilling, brush the brown sugar rum glaze over the slices for the last minute of cooking. This will allow the glaze to caramelize lightly, adding even more flavor!
6. Serve Deliciously:
Once the grilling is done, carefully remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool for a minute. To serve, place a slice of the grilled pineapple on a plate, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top. If you like, garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious grilled pineapple dessert! It’s a sweet and tropical treat that everyone will love!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sugar Instead of Brown Sugar?
Yes! You can use white sugar or coconut sugar as a substitute. If you use white sugar, the flavor will be a bit less rich, but it will still create a delightful glaze. For coconut sugar, the taste will be slightly different, but enjoyable!
What If I Don’t Have Dark Rum?
No worries! You can use light rum or even bourbon as a substitute. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, simply replace the rum with pineapple juice or a splash of vanilla extract for flavor.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the grill or in a pan to enjoy it warm again. You can also add it to smoothies or salads for a refreshing twist!
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it on the stove before brushing it over the pineapple slices. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water to loosen it up.
