This easy rum-soaked grilled pineapple is a sweet treat that you can whip up in no time. Just soak fresh pineapple slices in rum, then grill them until caramelized. Yum!
Honestly, it’s like a mini tropical vacation on your plate. I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Talk about a sunny dessert! 🌞🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Use a ripe and sweet pineapple for the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh pineapple, canned pineapple rings will work, but they might not get the same nice char on the grill.
Dark Rum: Dark rum adds depth and sweetness. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try using coconut water or a mix of pineapple juice with a splash of vanilla extract.
Brown Sugar: This gives a rich sweetness. You can substitute it with coconut sugar or even maple sugar if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is classic, but you could experiment with nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a unique twist.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is ideal, but if you’re in a pinch, imitation vanilla will work too. Just use a little less, as it can be stronger.
How Do You Properly Grill Pineapple for the Best Flavor?
Grilling pineapple is simple, but the technique is key for great results. To get that mouthwatering caramelization, follow these steps:
- Make sure your grill is hot. Preheat to medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Oil the grates. This helps prevent the pineapple from sticking and tearing.
- Grilling time matters! Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until you see nice grill marks and caramelization. Keep an eye on it, as timing can vary based on grill heat.
- Let it cool slightly after grilling before serving. It’ll be super hot straight off the grill!
Enjoy your pineapple with ice cream and toppings for a delightful dessert!
How to Make Easy Rum-soaked Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rum Marinade:
- 1/2 cup dark rum
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
- 1 cup vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- Caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus a marinating time of 30 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll then need about 10 minutes to grill. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 25 minutes to enjoy this sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rum Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the dark rum, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Use a spoon to stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved. This creates a sweet marinade that will soak into the pineapple.
2. Marinate the Pineapple:
Take your pineapple rings and place them in a shallow dish. Pour the rum mixture over the rings, making sure each one is well-coated. Let them sit and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, to absorb all that delicious flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the pineapple is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s a good idea to oil the grates lightly to prevent the pineapple from sticking. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil, held with tongs, for this step.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Once the grill is hot, carefully remove the pineapple rings from the marinade and place them directly on the grill. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until the pineapple is nice and caramelized with lovely grill marks.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, take the pineapple rings off the grill and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Drizzle some caramel sauce over the ice cream and add fresh mint leaves for a pretty finish, if you like. Enjoy your delicious rum-soaked grilled pineapple!
Can I Use a Different Type of Rum?
Absolutely! While dark rum adds rich flavor, you can use light rum or flavored rums (like coconut) for a twist. Just keep in mind that the desired taste will change slightly, so choose one that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pineapple?
You can marinate the pineapple for up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. If you’re planning on marinating longer, keep the pineapple in the fridge to prevent it from becoming too mushy from the rum and sugar.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave for a quick snack, or enjoy it cold as a topping for yogurt or in a fruit salad!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Alcohol?
Yes, you can! Replace the dark rum with a mixture of pineapple juice and a splash of vanilla extract to capture that tropical flavor without the alcohol. The brown sugar and cinnamon still work great to enhance the taste!
