Charred pineapple frozen margaritas are the ideal summer refresher. Pineapple caramelized under the broiler or on the grill and then blended with tequila, lime, and pineapple juice makes a smoky-sweet frozen cocktail perfect for warm days.

We all need a refreshing drink now and then, and this one is worth the effort. I’m excited to share that I’ve been working on a cookbook — a project that’s been keeping me busy since December as I collaborate with a publisher. There’s still a lot to do, but I can’t wait to reveal more when the time is right.
For the moment, I’ll just say: it’s exhausting, and the book isn’t finished yet.
The cookbook will be focused on Instant Pot and multi-cooker recipes with a promise of 15 minutes or less prep time. Quick, practical recipes are the goal — and I’m thrilled about it.

But for now, let’s drink — for my mental health. After months of cooking and juggling two kids at home while developing new recipes, I needed a break. I’ve been taking a step back to clean, do laundry, and reset.
When I was a kid, a classmate occasionally stayed home for what her mom called a “mental health day.” That idea feels more relevant than ever: we could all use more breaks, less pressure, and a little more fun — preferably with frozen cocktails in hand.
While I slowly surface from cookbook work and catch up with life, I’m content to sip a charred pineapple frozen margarita and relish the smoky, caramelized flavor that charring adds. Call it charred, brûléed, or brulee if you prefer — it all tastes great.
Cheers to taking a break and to summer sips.

Charred Pineapple Frozen Margaritas
Sugared, broiled pineapple blended with lime, ice, and tequila for a perfectly chilled summer cocktail.
Cocktail
Ingredients
-
2
cups
cubed fresh pineapple -
2
tbsp
brown sugar -
5
cups
ice cubes -
1/2
cup
tequila -
1/4
cup
lime juice -
1/3
cup
pineapple juice -
2
tbsp
simple syrup -
lime wedges
garnish -
fresh mint
garnish -
pineapple slices
garnish
Instructions
-
Preheat your broiler to high and line a small baking sheet with parchment. Spread the pineapple cubes on the sheet and sprinkle with brown sugar. Broil until the pineapple is dark golden, about 10 minutes on the first side. Flip the pieces and broil 5–7 minutes more until nicely charred.
-
Add ice, the charred pineapple, pineapple juice, tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup to a blender. Use the crush-ice or frozen-drink setting and blend until the mixture reaches a smooth, slushy margarita texture.
-
Rim glasses with salt or chile-lime seasoning if desired. Pour the margaritas into glasses and garnish with lime wedges, pineapple slices, fresh mint, or any combination you like. Serve immediately and enjoy.