This grilled pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat that’s super easy to make. The brown sugar rum glaze adds a delightful twist, making every bite extra special!
I always grill a little extra to enjoy on my ice cream. Who can resist that warm, caramelized goodness? 🍍 Just remember, it’s hard to share once you start!
Making this dish is a breeze! Just slice the pineapple, brush on the glaze, and grill until golden. It’s a fun and tasty way to elevate any summer gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe, sweet pineapple is key for this recipe. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple rings. Just make sure to drain them well before grilling.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works here, but I love the deeper flavor of dark brown sugar. If you need a substitute, try coconut sugar or maple syrup, keeping in mind that liquids could alter the glaze’s consistency.
Dark Rum: This adds a rich flavor to the glaze. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can use apple cider or pineapple juice instead. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still taste great!
Cinnamon: This is optional, but I find cinnamon adds warmth. If you’re not a fan, nutmeg or allspice are good substitutes to consider for a different taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best, but if you need a dairy-free option, try coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
How Do I Grill Pineapple Without Sticking?
Grilling can be tricky, especially with fruits like pineapple that can easily stick to the grates. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This helps create a good sear quickly.
- Brush the pineapple rings lightly with oil. You can use vegetable oil or even a little melted butter for added flavor.
- Place the rings directly on the grill and only flip them once. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes per side to get those beautiful grill marks.
Being patient when grilling will also help. If they’re sticking, they likely need more time before being flipped. Enjoy delicious, caramelized pineapple without the fuss!
The Best Grilled Pineapple With Brown Sugar Rum Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
For the Brown Sugar Rum Glaze:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes total. You’ll spend about 5 minutes getting everything ready, and then 10 minutes grilling the pineapple. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This step is important to get those beautiful grill marks on your pineapple!
2. Make the Brown Sugar Rum Glaze:
While the grill heats up, grab a small saucepan. Over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the brown sugar, dark rum, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well blended. Then, remove it from the heat and set aside to let the flavors combine.
3. Prepare the Pineapple:
Take your pineapple rings and brush them lightly with oil. This will help prevent the pineapple from sticking to the grill.
4. Grill the Pineapple Rings:
Place the oiled pineapple rings directly on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see lovely golden grill marks and the pineapple is caramelized. This will bring out the natural sweetness of the fruit.
5. Add the Glaze:
During the last minute of grilling, take your brown sugar rum glaze and brush it over the pineapple rings. Allow the glaze to caramelize slightly on the grill, adding even more flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and let it cool for just a minute. Serve each warm ring topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle any remaining brown sugar rum glaze over the top. Enjoy this sweet and smoky treat!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture for grilling. Just make sure you choose a ripe pineapple for the sweetest results. Peel, core, and cut it into rings as directed.
What Can I Substitute for Dark Rum?
If you don’t have dark rum, you can use spiced rum or even coconut rum for a different flavor profile. If avoiding alcohol is a concern, consider using apple juice or pineapple juice instead to maintain sweetness.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Leftover grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed, or enjoy cold in a fruit salad!
Can I Make the Brown Sugar Rum Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in a sealed container. When you’re ready to use it, gently reheat it on the stovetop until it’s warm and syrupy again.
