Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe

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The Comfort of Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe

There’s something deeply comforting about the sweet warmth of grilled pineapple, especially when it’s kissed with aromatic cinnamon and a splash of dark rum. I love how the fruit caramelizes on the grill, developing those lightly crisp edges while remaining tender and juicy inside. It feels like sunshine on a plate—simple yet indulgent.

You’ll notice that the rum adds a subtle depth without overpowering the fresh pineapple, making this Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe perfect for a relaxed weekend brunch or a cozy evening treat. It’s a lovely way to invite a little tropical magic into your kitchen, even if you can’t feel the ocean breeze outside.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease and the way the flavors come together effortlessly. Whether you’re serving it solo, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or as a dazzling side to grilled meats, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredient Guide

• Fresh pineapple: The star ingredient; look for one ripe, fragrant, and firm. Sweetness and juiciness make all the difference.
• Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps carry the cinnamon and sugar flavors into the fruit.
• Dark brown sugar: Provides deep caramel notes and helps create those golden grill marks.
• Dark rum (optional): Adds warmth and complexity, but can be omitted for a family-friendly version.
• Ground cinnamon: This warm spice pairs beautifully with pineapple’s natural acidity and sweetness.
• Pinch of salt: Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness of the pineapple and sugar.

Prep Before You Begin

Before you start grilling, it’s key to prepare everything so the cooking flows easily. Make sure your pineapple is fresh and you have all the ingredients measured and ready—this kind of mise en place keeps things simple and stress-free. You’ll want your grill or grill pan preheated to around 375-400°F for an ideal medium heat.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe

Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be rewarded with beautifully caramelized pineapple that bursts with warmth and tropical sweetness.

1. Slice and prepare: Use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple, then trim away the rind carefully. I like cutting the pineapple into ¾- to 1-inch spears, but you could also do rings. If you opt for rings, use a small cutter to remove the tough core. This step ensures even cooking and tender bites every time.
2. Marinate: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, dark brown sugar, dark rum (if you’re using it), ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Then place the pineapple pieces into a large zip-top bag and pour in the marinade. Gently toss to coat every inch of the fruit. Let it chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. You’ll notice the fruit soaking up all those delicious flavors.
3. Preheat the grill: Warm your grill or grill pan over medium heat until it reaches about 375-400°F. This temperature is perfect to achieve a golden sear without drying the pineapple.
4. Grill the pineapple: Place the marinated pineapple pieces on the hot grill. Cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, brushing each side occasionally with the excess marinade. This step keeps the fruit moist and amplifies the caramelization, making the edges lightly crisp with luscious crisped sugars.

5. Plate and serve immediately: Transfer the grilled pineapple to a serving platter. The contrast between the smoky grill marks and the golden, velvety interior is stunning. You’ll enjoy a tender fruit with a hint of caramelized sugars and spice—pure bliss on the palate.

Creative Variations for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe

• Add a touch of fresh mint or basil on top for an herbaceous brightness that complements the smoky flavor.
• Swap rum for spiced tequila or bourbon to give your pineapple a different warming note.
• Serve with creamy coconut yogurt or whipped mascarpone for extra indulgence.
• Add a sprinkle of chili powder or cayenne for a surprising kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
• Use grilled pineapple chunks as a topping for grilled chicken tacos or burgers to elevate your weeknight meals.
• Try a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for a tropical dessert twist.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

• Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It maintains good flavor but may lose some crispness.
• While freezing pineapple is possible, the texture will soften upon thawing, so I only recommend freezing if you plan to use it in smoothies or baking.
• To reheat, gently warm pineapple slices in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking or drying out the tender fruit.
• Re-grilling is also an option; just a quick 1-2 minutes per side on a hot grill or pan restores that smoky char.

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Rum Recipe FAQs

• Can I make this recipe without alcohol? Absolutely. The rum is optional and can be left out without sacrificing the deliciousness. The brown sugar and cinnamon will still deliver wonderful flavor.
• What if I don’t have a grill? No problem. Use a grill pan or even a cast-iron skillet on the stove for similar caramelization and smoky notes.
• How ripe should the pineapple be? Choose pineapple that’s fragrant with a slight give when pressed. Overripe pineapple can become mushy on the grill, while underripe will be too tart and firm.
• Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the pineapple up to a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and toss gently before grilling for even coating.
• What should I serve with grilled pineapple? It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or as a zesty addition to salads and salsas.

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