How to Make a Rum Glazed Pineapple at Home

The sweet, caramelized taste of a nicely glazed pineapple with rum speaks of a tropical paradise like no other. This meal is a must-try whether you're trying to wow people at a BBQ or you just have a sweet tooth for something tropical to eat. You can turn an ordinary pineapple into a flavorful, rich dessert with only a few basic ingredients and a splash of whiskey. Here's an easy guide on making a rum-glazed pineapple at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, gather the following ingredients to ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable:

• 1 fresh pineapple
• ½ cup dark rum (preferably a spiced or aged variety for added depth of flavor)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

These ingredients are easy to find and, when combined, create a rich, caramel-like glaze that perfectly complements the pineapple’s natural sweetness.

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple

Start by preparing your pineapple. If you’re using a whole pineapple, cut off the top and bottom, then carefully slice off the skin, removing all the eyes and brown spots. Slice the pineapple into rings, wedges, or spears, depending on your preference. For a more elegant presentation, you can core the rings to create pineapple circles, but leaving the core intact is also fine if you like a slightly firmer texture.

Step 2: Make the Rum Glaze

Next, it’s time to make the rum glaze that will elevate this dish. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the brown sugar and stir until it begins to dissolve and form a thick syrup.

Add the dark rum slowly, stirring constantly to prevent any clumping of the sugar. The mixture will bubble up slightly when the rum is added, so be cautious. Keep stirring until the glaze is smooth and all the sugar is fully dissolved. Reduce the heat to low, then add the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Continue to simmer for 1-2 minutes until the glaze has thickened slightly.

Step 3: Glaze the Pineapple

Now that your glaze is ready, it’s time to coat the pineapple. If you’re cooking on the stovetop, use a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan. Heat the pan over medium-high heat, and then place your pineapple slices or wedges in a single layer.

Using a basting brush, generously apply the rum glaze to each piece of pineapple. Allow the pineapple to cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until it begins to caramelize and form a golden-brown crust. Flip the slices over, brush more glaze on the other side, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. The high heat will caramelize the sugars in the glaze, creating a rich, sticky coating that’s full of flavor.

Step 4: Grilling Option for an Extra Smoky Flavor

For those who love the taste of grilled fruit, consider making your rum glazed pineapple on the barbecue. The open flame adds a subtle smokiness that complements the sweetness of the pineapple and the depth of the rum glaze.

To grill, preheat your barbecue to medium-high heat. Brush the pineapple rings or spears with the glaze on both sides, and place them directly on the grill. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, applying more glaze as needed, until you see beautiful grill marks and the pineapple is tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your pineapple is beautifully caramelized, it’s time to serve. Rum glazed pineapple can be enjoyed on its own as a dessert, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of other dishes. Try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, as a topping for pancakes, or alongside grilled meats for a sweet and savory combination.

For an added flair, sprinkle some toasted coconut or chopped nuts over the top before serving. The result is a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress friends and family, and the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make.

Tips for the Perfect Rum Glazed Pineapple

• Choose a ripe pineapple: A sweet, ripe pineapple will provide the best flavor. Look for a pineapple that has a strong, sweet aroma and yields slightly when pressed.
• Use high-quality rum: A good-quality dark rum will enhance the glaze, adding complexity to the overall taste.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar, or add a splash of lime juice for some tangy brightness.

Conclusion - Rum Glazed Pineapple at Home Is The Real Treat

Making a rum glazed pineapple at home is easier than you might think, and the result is a deliciously caramelized treat that can elevate any meal. With the rich flavors of rum, butter, and brown sugar complementing the natural sweetness of the fruit, this recipe is perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a special treat.