This tasty grilled pineapple is drizzled with a sweet brown sugar rum glaze that makes every bite a treat! The caramelized edges give it a lovely crunch. Perfect for summer barbecues!
Honestly, I can’t resist sneaking a slice when it’s fresh off the grill! 🍍 It’s super easy to make, and they’ll be the star of your next cookout—you might even want to make extra!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Choosing a ripe pineapple is key for sweetness. Look for pineapple with a golden color and sweet smell. If you can’t find fresh pineapple, canned slices in juice work, but they won’t have the same texture.
Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar adds a rich flavor due to its molasses content. You can substitute it with light brown sugar, but the glaze will be a bit less intense. For a healthier option, try coconut sugar, but keep in mind the taste will change slightly.
Dark Rum: Using dark rum gives a deeper flavor. If you prefer, you can swap it with coconut rum for a tropical twist or even use apple juice for a non-alcoholic version, though the flavor will be different.
Butter: Butter adds richness, but if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil works well. It complements the tropical flavors of the pineapple perfectly.
How Can I Get Perfect Grill Marks on My Pineapple?
Getting those beautiful grill marks adds visual appeal and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the pineapple slices on it. This is crucial for good caramelization.
- Make sure the grill grates are clean to prevent sticking.
- Brush both sides of the pineapple slices with glaze to prevent them from drying out.
- Place pineapple slices on the grill at a 45-degree angle to the grates for better marks. Don’t move them around too much; let them sit for 3-4 minutes on each side.
Letting the pineapple cool slightly before serving helps retain its juices, ensuring every bite is delightful.
The Best Grilled Pineapple With Brown Sugar Rum Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cored
For The Brown Sugar Rum Glaze:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook on the grill. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious grilled pineapple treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important for getting those lovely grill marks on your pineapple and caramelizing the sugars.
2. Prepare The Pineapple:
Carefully cut the peeled and cored pineapple into 1-inch thick slices. If you like, you can remove the tough core from each slice for easier eating.
3. Make The Glaze:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix together the brown sugar, dark rum, butter, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture for about 3-5 minutes until the sugar has dissolved and you have a smooth glaze. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t boil over!
4. Brush The Pineapple:
Using a brush or spoon, coat the pineapple slices with the brown sugar rum glaze. Save a little bit of the glaze for later use when serving.
5. Grill The Pineapple:
Place the glazed pineapple slices on your hot grill. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes, until you see nice grill marks and the pineapple is slightly caramelized. This creates a deliciously sweet flavor!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool for a minute. Serve the warm grilled pineapple slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, and drizzle with the reserved brown sugar rum glaze. Enjoy your delightful treat!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple is preferred for this recipe as it provides a firmer texture and brighter flavor. Just make sure to select a ripe pineapple for the best results. A ripe pineapple will have a sweet aroma at the base and should yield slightly when pressed.
Can I Substitute the Dark Rum?
Yes, you can substitute dark rum with spiced rum, or even a non-alcoholic option like pineapple juice or a mix of apple cider vinegar and brown sugar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly based on your choice!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices on a grill pan over medium heat or in the microwave for a quick warm-up. You might want to drizzle a little extra glaze over them to enhance the flavor!
How Can I Make This Recipe Non-Alcoholic?
If you’d like to make this recipe without alcohol, simply omit the dark rum and use an extra tablespoon of brown sugar plus a splash of pineapple juice to achieve a similar sweetness. The flavors will still be delicious without the rum!
