This easy rum-soaked grilled pineapple is a tasty treat that combines sweet, juicy pineapple with a splash of rum for a fun twist. Perfect as a dessert or a fun side dish!
When I fire up the grill, I can’t resist adding this pineapple. It gets caramelized and brings out the fruit’s natural sweetness. It’s like a tropical vacation on a plate! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. Look for one with a sweet smell and slightly soft to the touch. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple slices can work, but the grilling time may need to be adjusted.
Dark Rum: Dark rum adds a deep flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can replace it with pineapple juice or a mix of vanilla extract and water.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar is great, but you can use dark brown sugar for a richer taste. If you need a substitute, try maple syrup or honey—just adjust the quantity to taste as they are sweeter.
Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon pairs beautifully with pineapple. If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, you can leave it out or swap it with nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor.
How Do I Perfectly Grill Pineapple Without It Falling Apart?
The key to grilling pineapple is maintaining its firmness while achieving those beautiful grill marks. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the pineapple into rings about 1-inch thick. This thickness helps them hold up on the grill.
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat. A hot grill allows for quicker cooking and better caramelization.
- Soaking in the marinade adds flavor but also helps soften the pineapple. Aim for at least 30 minutes of soaking.
- Use tongs to flip them gently on the grill after 3-4 minutes, making sure not to poke holes in the rings.
Remember, you want the pineapple to have those lovely char marks, so don’t rush it! Enjoy your grilling experience!
How to Make Easy Rum-soaked Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- Caramel sauce (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes for soaking the pineapple in the rum marinade. After that, grilling will take about 10 minutes. So, you’ll need around 55 minutes in total to enjoy this flavorful dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Begin by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that the pineapple gets those delicious grill marks and caramelizes nicely. Just a few minutes should do the trick!
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Take your ripe pineapple and carefully peel it. Make sure to remove the tough core and then slice the pineapple into rings that are about 1-inch thick. These thick rings will hold up well on the grill and retain their juiciness.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup dark rum, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 2 tbsp melted butter. Stir everything together until the sugar has dissolved into the mixture. This sweet and boozy marinade will give your pineapple a fantastic flavor!
4. Soak the Pineapple:
Place your pineapple rings in a shallow dish and pour the rum mixture over them, making sure they’ll be well coated. Let the pineapple soak in the mixture for at least 30 minutes to soak up all those delicious flavors. If you can wait longer, it’s even better!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Once your grill is hot, carefully place the soaked pineapple rings on it. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes or until you see pretty grill marks and the pineapple starts to caramelize. The aroma will be irresistible!
6. Serve:
After grilling, transfer the warm pineapple rings to serving plates. For a tasty finish, top each ring with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle caramel sauce over it. The warm pineapple pairs perfectly with the cold ice cream!
7. Enjoy:
Dig in while everything is warm and gooey! This easy rum-soaked grilled pineapple dessert is sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple is the star of this dish and will give you the best flavor and texture. Just make sure it’s ripe for the sweetest taste. Avoid canned pineapple, as it can be too soft and less flavorful after grilling.
What If I Don’t Have Dark Rum?
No problem! You can substitute light rum or even a splash of bourbon or whiskey for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, use a mixture of pineapple juice and vanilla extract instead!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick treat, or enjoy cold over yogurt or in a smoothie!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the rum marinade a day in advance; just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to soak the pineapple. This can save you time on the day of the barbecue!
