Grilled pineapple with rum is one of those simple pleasures that captures the spirit of summer in every bite. It’s tropical, sweet, a little smoky, and just boozy enough to feel like a vacation. This pairing brings together the natural sugars of ripe pineapple and the rich, caramel notes of rum, especially when warmed over an open flame or a hot grill. It’s a combination that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light, perfect for ending a warm evening outdoors.
There’s something about grilled fruit that transforms it. The heat caramelizes the sugars and softens the texture, creating a contrast of crispy char and juicy flesh. Pineapple, with its firm structure and tart-sweet flavor, holds up beautifully on the grill. Add a splash of rum and it becomes even more complex. The alcohol cooks off quickly, leaving behind its rich aroma and subtle depth that enhances every bite. Whether served on its own or with something creamy and cool, grilled pineapple with rum feels just right for a backyard gathering or a special treat for yourself.
This dish isn’t limited to summer. It brings a hint of the tropics to your table even in colder months. That burst of sunny pineapple and the warm hint of rum can transport you, even for a moment, to sandy shores and swaying palm trees. It’s also a great option when you’re looking to keep things easy but still want to impress. The ingredients are simple and the preparation quick, but the results are anything but ordinary.
Grilled pineapple with rum is versatile too. It can be served warm or chilled, as a dessert or even a surprising side with savory grilled meats. Its sweet, smoky flavor complements a variety of dishes and adds a playful twist to the usual cookout lineup.
So, the next time you’re planning a casual dinner or want something just a little different, think about throwing a few pineapple slices on the grill and brushing them with rum. It’s a quick escape to the islands with every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 whole pineapple peeled, cored, and cut into rings
- 1/4 cup dark rum or as desired
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar for caramelization
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional for extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the dark rum, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon together.
- Brush the pineapple slices with the rum mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Grill the pineapple slices for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the sugar has caramelized.
- Remove from the grill and serve warm. Enjoy as is, or pair with vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition
Sounds easy, but does it really taste good? I am skeptical about grilled pineapple.
The cinnamon was too much for my taste. I think I prefer it plain or with just sugar.
Delicious! My family loved it and it pairs well with ice cream as you said! Will make again.
OMG, this is sooo good! I never thought of grilling pineapple, but now I’m obsessed! 🥰
Seems an easy recipe but my grill won’t even get hot! Can I do this in the oven??
Grill pineapple? Isn’t that just a waste of good fruit? Ugh, I’m skeptical.
I love grilled pineapple! It’s actually super delicious when caramelized. Give it a try before knocking it! 😊
I don’t get how you can call this a recipe. Just put pineapple on the grill and add rum? Doesn’t seem like cooking to me.
Yummy! Taste so good after off the grill! Next time, I’m gonna try with some coconut too! 🥥🍍
Coconut sounds awesome! I never thought of that. Can’t wait to see how it turns out! 🌴
This was a hit at our BBQ! The rum really makes it special. I added a bit of nutmeg too.
Grilled pineapple…why? Just eat it raw, it’s better! 😒
I did not have rum, so I used whiskey and it was still super delicious!
This was sooo good! The rum really brings out the flavor of the pineapple.
This is an awesome recipe! The pineapple comes out so sweet and juicy when grilled. Can’t wait to make it again!
I’m glad you loved it! Grilled pineapple is my go-to summer treat. Can’t wait to try your tips!
I thought this would be easy but my grill is broken. I just made it in the oven and it was okay, but I’m sure the grill would be better.
I’ve done it in the oven too! It still tastes great! But yeah, the grill does give it that smoky flavor. Better luck next time!
Grilled pineapple? Isn’t that just for desserts? Why would someone want this?
Grilled pineapple is amazing! It adds a sweet and smoky flavor that just hits different. Give it a try! 🍍
I dunno, seems weird to grill fruit. I mean, isn’t fruit supposed to be fresh? 😕
Just two words: absolutely fantastic!
I’m so glad you loved it! It’s one of my favorites too!
Absolutely… but isn’t using rum for pineapple kind of a waste? Lol. Just saying!
My kids gobbled these up! I left out the rum since they are kids, but they were still super yummy.
Grilling pineapple? Who knew? My kids devoured this! Thanks for sharing!
YUM! This made my BBQ perfect. Who knew pineapple could be so good?!
Pineapple?? Is that even good on a BBQ? Sounds kinda strange to me.
I can’t believe you grilled pineapple! I always thought it was just for desserts. Gotta try this!
Kinda just tastes like burnt fruit to me. Not my thing.
I tried this but the rum taste was too strong for me. Maybe use less rum next time.
Really easy recipe, took me 10 minutes. Way better than boring ol fruit salad!
simple and yummy! did not expect it to be this good 👌
5 stars all the way! I added some maraschino cherries on top, loved it!
WTF! Is this even a real recipe?? Rum and fruit can’t be good together. Just eat pineapple plain!
Uh, can I use fresh pineapples? Just asking because I think canned ones might work too?
This was AMAZING! The rum really makes the pineapple pop. My guests were blown away!
I mixed up the cinnamon with cayenne pepper by accident. The pineapple was spicy! LOL, but still good.
Absolutely loved this recipe! The caramelization made the pineapple taste like candy. Will definitely make again!
So simple yet so delicious, I felt like a chef! Will try with other fruits too 🥳.
Grilled pineapple is the best! I’ve tried adding strawberries too, yum! 🍓
I don’t know about the rum part, seems a bit much. But the idea of grilled pineapple does sound good.
I didn’t have rum so used apple juice instead. Still turned out good, but not the same tho.
Grilled pineapple? Who even thought of that? Sounds weird but I tried it and it’s delish!
I dunno, it still sounds kinda weird to me. Pineapple should be fresh, not grilled! 🤷♂️
Grilled pineapple is actually pretty popular in some places! You should try it with ice cream, it’s a game changer!
Not a fan. The rum flavor was way too strong for my taste. I think I’ll skip it next time.
I made this for a BBQ and everyone loved it! The caramelization is just perfect. Don’t skip the ice cream!
This sounds amazing! Can’t wait to try it at my next cookout. Grilled pineapple is the best!
Shouldn’t the rum evaporate when grilling? Is it still alcoholic?
Delish! But my hubby said it’s way too sticky. Still yum though.
Naww, sticky is good! Just means it’s extra yummy! 🍍🙌
I think it’s all about how well you grill them! Maybe reduce the rum or sugar next time? 🤔
Yum!! I used cinnamon and it made it taste so much better! Great summer treat.
Cinnamon sounds interesting! Never thought about adding it. I’ll have to try it next time.
I dunno, cinnamon with pineapple? Seems weird to me. Just stick with the classic rum and sugar!
Too sweet for my taste. Maybe cut back on the sugar next time?