If you’re searching for a treat that’s as vibrant as it is effortless, this Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine juicy, golden pineapple chunks kissed with warm cinnamon and brown sugar, gently caramelized in your air fryer until they’re absolutely irresistible. It’s a sunshiny side dish, dessert, or snack that always wows guests and family alike. Whether you serve it on its own, spoon it over creamy yogurt, or top a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe brings tropical joy to your table with just a handful of ingredients and barely any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe is in its simplicity: each ingredient plays a starring role, from the sweet pineapple to the warm, aromatic cinnamon. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Fresh pineapple: Go for a ripe pineapple for maximum sweetness and juiciness; it’s the star of the show and brings that perfect tropical flavor.
- Brown sugar: This adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that helps the pineapple caramelize beautifully while air frying.
- Ground cinnamon: Just a touch gives a cozy, spiced note that complements the pineapple’s natural acidity and sweetness.
- Melted coconut oil or butter: Either option helps the sugar and spices stick while adding a subtle richness and gloss to every bite.
- Pinch of salt: Don’t skip this! A little salt enhances all the flavors and balances out the sweetness.
- Honey or lime juice for drizzling (optional): These finishing touches add extra sparkle—honey for more sweetness, lime for a tangy pop.
How to Make Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pineapple
Start by peeling, coring, and cutting your pineapple into generous 1-inch chunks or long spears—whichever suits your mood. The key is to keep the pieces roughly the same size so they cook evenly and caramelize just right.
Step 2: Toss with Flavor
In a large mixing bowl, combine your pineapple pieces with the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted coconut oil or butter, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together until each piece is glistening and well coated. This quick step infuses every bite with sweet, spiced flavor and sets the stage for caramelization.
Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 380°F and let it preheat for a couple of minutes. This ensures your pineapple starts cooking the instant it hits the basket, leading to that perfect golden finish. If your air fryer doesn’t require preheating, you can skip ahead to the next step.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Arrange the pineapple in a single layer in your air fryer basket—don’t overcrowd, or the pieces won’t caramelize as nicely. If you’re working with a smaller air fryer, cook in batches. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the pineapple is golden, lightly caramelized, and irresistibly tender.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once your pineapple is done, transfer it to a serving bowl. While it’s still warm, drizzle with honey for extra sweetness or squeeze over fresh lime juice for a bright, tangy zing. These finishing touches elevate your Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe to a whole new level.
How to Serve Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect presentation, sprinkle your pineapple with a little extra cinnamon or a handful of toasted coconut flakes. A mint sprig or a dusting of lime zest adds a burst of color and freshness that makes every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe pairs beautifully with dishes that crave a touch of sweetness—think alongside grilled chicken, teriyaki salmon, or even spicy tacos. Or, keep it simple and serve as a vibrant side at your next barbecue or brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe to dessert heights by piling it on top of vanilla ice cream, swirling it into creamy yogurt, or scattering it over a stack of pancakes. For something unexpected, skewer the chunks and serve them as a fun party bite or add them to a tropical fruit salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store your caramelized pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays delicious for up to 3 days and is great cold or at room temperature.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze extra pineapple for later treats. Spread the pieces on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before using.
Reheating
To recapture that just-cooked magic, pop your pineapple back into the air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave works too, though the air fryer keeps those golden edges crisp.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh pineapple gives the best texture and flavor, you can use canned pineapple rings or chunks in a pinch—just be sure to drain them well, and pat them dry so they caramelize nicely in the air fryer.
Is this Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe vegan?
Yes, it can be! Simply use coconut oil instead of butter, and skip the honey drizzle or opt for maple syrup. Every other ingredient is naturally plant-based and gluten-free.
Can I add other spices to the mix?
Definitely! Try a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick, some ground ginger for warmth, or a dash of cardamom for an exotic twist. This Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe is super customizable to your taste.
How do I know when the pineapple is done?
Your pineapple is ready when it’s golden, lightly caramelized, and tender to the bite. If you like it extra caramelized, leave it in for another minute or two but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
What’s the best way to cut a pineapple for this recipe?
After peeling and coring, cut your pineapple into 1-inch chunks or spears. Chunks are perfect for snacking or topping, while spears make for a fun, hand-held option—both work wonderfully in this Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe is proof that a handful of simple ingredients and a little bit of heat can turn everyday fruit into something truly spectacular. If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s easy, vibrant, and guaranteed to delight, give this one a whirl—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Air Fryer Pineapple Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Dessert
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Air Fryer Pineapple recipe offers a quick and delicious way to enjoy caramelized pineapple as a healthy dessert, side dish, or topping. Featuring lightly spiced, tender pineapple chunks air fried to golden perfection, it’s a flavorful and nutritious treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fruit
- 1 fresh pineapple (peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks or spears)
Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Fat
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil or butter
Optional Toppings
- Honey or lime juice for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple: In a large bowl, combine the peeled, cored, and cut pineapple chunks or spears with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted coconut oil or butter, and a pinch of salt. Toss well until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange Pineapple in Basket: Place the seasoned pineapple in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding which can prevent proper caramelization.
- Air Fry the Pineapple: Cook the pineapple for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even caramelization and tenderness.
- Serve Warm: Once golden and lightly caramelized, remove the pineapple from the air fryer. Serve immediately, optionally drizzled with honey or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added flavor.
Notes
- This recipe works wonderfully as a side dish, healthy dessert, or as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream.
- For a spicy-sweet variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning before air frying.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to achieve perfect caramelization.
- Use fresh pineapple for the best texture and natural sweetness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
