Flavorful Grilled Caramelized Pineapple Recipe with Easy Brown Sugar Rum Glaze
This grilled caramelized pineapple with brown sugar rum glaze is a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dessert or side dish that balances tropical brightness with smoky caramel perfection.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- Fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings or wedges
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons dark or spiced rum
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple: Peel and core the pineapple. Slice into 1/2-inch thick rings or wedges. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (about 5 minutes).
- Make the Glaze: In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup (50g) dark brown sugar, 2 tablespoons (30ml) melted unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons (30ml) dark or spiced rum, 1 teaspoon (5ml) fresh lime juice, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract if using. Whisk until smooth and syrupy (about 3 minutes).
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F). If using charcoal, wait until coals are glowing and covered with white ash. Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Glaze and Grill the Pineapple: Brush both sides of each pineapple slice with the brown sugar rum glaze. Place slices on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, brushing with more glaze halfway through. Look for deep grill marks and bubbling caramel on edges. Avoid moving the slices too much to get that perfect char (about 8-10 minutes total).
- Finishing Touch: Remove from grill and let rest for 2 minutes. The glaze will thicken slightly as it cools, adding sticky sweetness.
- Serve: Serve warm as a dessert or side. Garnish with fresh mint or a sprinkle of toasted coconut if desired.
Notes
Pat pineapple dry before grilling to ensure better caramelization and prevent flare-ups. Apply glaze in layers, brushing before grilling and midway through cooking. Manage grill heat carefully to avoid burning the sugar glaze. Use tongs gently to keep pineapple slices intact. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute rum with pineapple juice and a splash of vanilla extract. For dairy-free, use coconut oil instead of butter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 pineapple slices
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 30
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 3
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 0.5
Keywords: grilled pineapple, caramelized pineapple, brown sugar rum glaze, easy dessert, summer dessert, grilled fruit, tropical dessert