Sweet, smoky, and infused with warm cinnamon flavor, this Grilled Fireball Pink Pineapple Recipe transforms an ordinary pineapple into a stunning dessert centerpiece. Using a pink pineapple adds an extra layer of tropical sweetness and vibrant color, while a long soak in Fireball Whisky allows the fruit to absorb notes of cinnamon, spice, and caramel. As the pineapple slowly roasts or turns on a rotisserie, the sugars caramelize into a golden crust that creates an irresistible combination of crispy edges and juicy fruit.
This dessert is perfect for summer barbecues, backyard cookouts, holiday gatherings, and special celebrations. The dramatic presentation of a whole roasted pineapple makes it an eye-catching addition to any dessert table, while the sweet cinnamon flavor appeals to anyone who enjoys grilled fruit desserts. Whether prepared on a rotisserie grill or roasted upright in the oven, this cinnamon whisky pineapple recipe delivers a memorable combination of tropical fruit and warm spice.
Prep Time
24 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour
Total Time
25 hours 15 minutes
Servings
8 to 10 servings
1 whole pink pineapple, peeled and trimmed
1 bottle Fireball Whisky
1 cup light brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup ground cinnamon
Prepare the Pineapple
Begin by selecting a ripe pink pineapple. The fruit should have a sweet aroma and feel slightly firm while still yielding gently to pressure. Remove the leafy crown if desired, then carefully peel away the outer skin. Use a small knife to remove any remaining eyes from the fruit.
Pat the pineapple dry with paper towels before placing it into a large container deep enough to hold the fruit and the soaking liquid.
Infuse with Fireball Whisky
Pour the bottle of Fireball Whisky over the pineapple until the fruit is fully submerged. Cover the container tightly and refrigerate for 24 hours.
During this time, the pineapple absorbs the cinnamon whisky flavor while maintaining its natural sweetness and juicy texture. The extended soaking period creates a deeper flavor profile and helps the fruit develop a more complex taste once roasted.
After 24 hours, carefully remove the pineapple from the whisky and place it on a wire rack or tray to drain for several minutes.
Do not discard the whisky. The remaining liquid becomes infused with the sweet flavor of pink pineapple and can be reserved for future cocktails or dessert recipes.
Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a large shallow bowl, combine the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon.
Stir until the ingredients are evenly mixed and the cinnamon is distributed throughout the sugars.
Roll the drained pineapple in the cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing gently as needed so the coating adheres to all sides of the fruit. Continue coating until the pineapple is generously covered.
The sugar coating helps create the signature caramelized crust that forms during roasting while enhancing the natural sweetness of the pineapple.
Prepare for Cooking
Preheat your grill, rotisserie, or oven to 450°F.
If using a rotisserie, securely mount the pineapple onto the spit rod according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure the pineapple is balanced properly for even cooking.
If using an oven, stand the pineapple upright on a baking sheet or in a deep baking dish. The upright position allows the juices to circulate throughout the fruit while helping it cook evenly.
Roast the Pineapple
Cook the pineapple for approximately 1 hour.
If using a rotisserie, allow the pineapple to rotate continuously during cooking. This method creates even caramelization around the entire fruit and produces a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
If using an oven, rotate the baking dish every 15 to 20 minutes to promote even browning.
As the pineapple cooks, the sugars begin to melt and caramelize. The cinnamon coating develops a rich amber color while the fruit becomes exceptionally tender and juicy. The aroma of cinnamon, caramelized sugar, and tropical pineapple will fill your kitchen or outdoor cooking area.
For an extra-thick caramelized crust, carefully spoon some of the melted sugar from the baking dish over the pineapple during the final 15 minutes of cooking.
Rest and Serve
Once the pineapple is deeply golden and caramelized, remove it from the heat.
Allow the fruit to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute throughout the pineapple, ensuring every bite remains moist and flavorful.
Slice the pineapple into rings, wedges, or thick spears depending on your preferred presentation.
Serve warm with any caramelized juices spooned over the top.
Serving Suggestions
This grilled Fireball pink pineapple is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of complementary desserts.
Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a classic hot-and-cold contrast.
Top with freshly whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon.
Drizzle with homemade caramel sauce for an even richer dessert.
Pair with coconut ice cream to enhance the tropical flavors.
Serve over pound cake, angel food cake, or gluten-free sponge cake for an elegant plated dessert.
For entertaining, create a dessert platter featuring sliced pineapple, fresh berries, toasted coconut, and cinnamon whipped cream.
Pink pineapple is naturally sweeter and less acidic than traditional pineapple, making it especially well suited for grilling and roasting.
Allowing the pineapple to soak for the full 24 hours produces the most flavorful results.
The reserved pineapple-infused Fireball Whisky can be used in cocktails, dessert sauces, or holiday punches.
If pink pineapple is unavailable, a traditional ripe pineapple may be substituted.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently before serving to restore the caramelized texture and warm cinnamon aroma.
Must be 21 years of age or older to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly.
