If you’re craving a dessert that brings tropical sunshine right to your backyard cookout, look no further than this Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe. It’s a vibrant combination of juicy pineapple caramelized over a hot grill, kissed by warm cinnamon spice and the rich depth of dark rum. Each bite bursts with sweetness and smoky char that makes it a delightful treat for all seasons. Trust me, once you try this recipe, grilling fruit will become your new favorite way to impress guests or indulge in a quick, flavorful dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s truly magical about this recipe is how just a handful of straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients come together to create such an extraordinary flavor experience. Every element has its purpose — from the buttery sweetness to the warm spice, and yes, that splash of rum that takes it to another level.
- Fresh pineapple: The star of the dish, juicy and naturally sweet, perfect for grilling to enhance its flavors.
- Melted butter: Adds richness and helps caramelize the pineapple evenly on the grill.
- Dark brown sugar: Provides a deep molasses sweetness that complements the fruit’s tang.
- Dark rum (optional): Infuses the pineapple with a subtle boozy complexity that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon: Warming spice that adds a fragrant, cozy note.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and cuts through sweetness for a balanced taste.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of fresh color and mild herbaceous contrast.
How to Make Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple
Start by cutting off the top and bottom of your pineapple. Then carefully remove the tough rind before slicing the fruit into spears or rings—whichever shape you prefer. This preparation ensures each piece grills evenly and is easy to handle on the grill. The juicy flesh is what we want to shine, so take your time to get clean, uniform slices.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, dark brown sugar, dark rum (if you’re using it), ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This mixture is pure magic — the butter helps achieve that golden caramelization, while the sugar and rum create an irresistible glaze. Pour your marinade over the pineapple slices in a zip-top bag and let them soak up these flavors for 20 to 30 minutes. This step really elevates the dish.
Step 3: Heat the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to a medium heat, aiming for around 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is key because it’s hot enough to caramelize the natural sugars and make those beautiful grill marks, but gentle enough to keep the pineapple juicy and not burnt.
Step 4: Grill the Pineapple
Place the marinated pineapple pieces on the grill and cook them for 4 to 6 minutes per side. Don’t forget to brush on some of the leftover marinade while grilling—it boosts flavor and keeps the fruit moist. The pineapple should be tender and caramelized, with a lovely smoky char that perfectly complements the cinnamon and rum notes.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Once grilled, transfer your pineapple to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley for a splash of vibrant green. Serving it warm is a fantastic way to enjoy the full aroma and luscious texture. It’s simple, beautiful, and utterly delicious—ready to be devoured immediately.
How to Serve Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing grilled pineapple with fresh parsley offers a nice pop of color and a mild herbal lift that offsets the sweet, rich flavors. You can also try a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a dollop of whipped cream for a tropical and indulgent touch.
Side Dishes
This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like pork chops or chicken to add a sweet and tangy contrast. It also works beautifully alongside coconut rice or a light green salad with lime vinaigrette for a fresh, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive presentation, serve the grilled pineapple slices stacked or layered with scoops of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can even skewer the pineapple with chunks of other grilled fruits like mango or peaches to create colorful, fruity kebabs that are perfect for summer gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover grilled pineapple, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days while it still retains its juicy, grilled flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze grilled pineapple, but be mindful that the texture might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, spread the slices on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen grilled pineapple is great for smoothies or cooking later.
Reheating
Reheat leftover grilled pineapple gently by warming it in a skillet over medium-low heat or briefly in the oven. This keeps it from drying out and helps revive some of the caramelized goodness. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the fruit mushy.
FAQs
Can I make this Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe without rum?
Absolutely! The rum is optional and mainly adds a depth of flavor, but the dish is just as delicious without it. You can substitute with a splash of pineapple juice or simply omit it and still enjoy a fantastic treat.
What kind of pineapple works best for grilling?
Go for a ripe but firm pineapple. It should have a sweet aroma at the base, a golden hue, and give slightly when pressed. Overripe pineapple can become mushy on the grill, so firmness helps maintain great texture.
How long can the pineapple marinate?
Marinating for 20 to 30 minutes is ideal to absorb flavors without becoming too soft. If you want a stronger cinnamon and rum taste, you can marinate up to an hour, but avoid much longer to prevent the pineapple from breaking down.
Is this recipe suitable for a healthy diet?
Yes! While it includes butter and sugar, grilled pineapple is a naturally nutrient-rich fruit with vitamins and fiber. You can reduce sugar or butter slightly to lighten it up, and it makes a refreshing alternative to heavy desserts.
Can I cook the pineapple indoors without a grill?
Definitely! Use a grill pan or even a hot cast-iron skillet on the stove. The key is high heat to get those lovely caramelized edges. Just watch carefully to avoid burning and use the marinade to keep it moist.
Final Thoughts
I hope this recipe inspires you to fire up the grill and try the Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe yourself. It’s one of those dishes that’s as simple as it is spectacular, delivering a burst of tropical sunshine and cozy spice with every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ or craving a quick, sweet treat, this grilled pineapple will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a go—you won’t regret it!
Print
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Pineapple recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fresh pineapple with a sweet and spiced marinade. The pineapple is marinated in a blend of melted butter, dark brown sugar, dark rum, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, then grilled to caramelized perfection. Served warm and garnished with fresh parsley, this dish makes a perfect dessert or side for your barbecue gatherings.
Ingredients
Pineapple
- 1 fresh pineapple
Marinade
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dark rum (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple: Cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple, carefully remove the rind, and slice the fruit into spears or rings depending on your preference for grilling.
- Make the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, dark brown sugar, dark rum (if using), ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Place the pineapple slices in a zip-top bag, pour the marinade over them, seal the bag, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat, aiming for a temperature between 375°F and 400°F to ensure even cooking and caramelization of the pineapple.
- Grill the Pineapple: Remove the pineapple from the marinade and place the pieces on the hot grill. Cook each side for 4-6 minutes, brushing occasionally with the leftover marinade to keep the pineapple moist and flavorful while allowing it to develop beautiful grill marks.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the grilled pineapple to a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately while warm to enjoy the best texture and taste.
Notes
- You can omit the dark rum for a non-alcoholic version without sacrificing flavor.
- Make sure the grill is properly preheated to get nice caramelized grill marks on the pineapple.
- Marinating time can be increased up to 1 hour for a more intense flavor, but not longer as the acidity may break down the pineapple too much.
- Use fresh parsley just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and freshness.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan on the stovetop works well as an alternative.
