Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat that’s super easy to whip up! Just slice fresh pineapple, sprinkle it with a bit of brown sugar, and let the air fryer do its magic.
It’s like bringing a tropical vacation right to your kitchen! I love to serve it with vanilla ice cream—it’s an amazing combo that feels fancy but is really simple to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is the star here, bringing a juicy sweetness. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple chunks can work, but they may have more moisture. Just be sure to drain them well!
Brown Sugar: I love using brown sugar for its rich flavor, but you can swap it with coconut sugar for a healthier twist. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, try Stevia or erythritol.
Cinnamon: A little cinnamon adds warmth and spice. You can switch it up with nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor profile, but remember to use sparingly!
Coconut Oil or Butter: Coconut oil provides a lovely tropical taste. If you prefer butter, go for unsalted for better flavor control. For dairy-free needs, stick with coconut oil.
Fresh Mint: Mint is optional but does add a fresh burst when serving. If mint isn’t your thing, try using basil for a unique twist or leave it out altogether!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Caramelized Pineapple in an Air Fryer?
Caramelizing pineapple enhances its sweetness and adds a lovely texture. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start your air fryer at 375°F (190°C) to give the pineapple a good sear.
- Combine brown sugar and cinnamon thoroughly before adding pineapple so it’s evenly coated.
- Spread the pineapple in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding will cause steaming instead of frying.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking—this helps with even grilling and browning.
- Keep an eye on the time! Aim for 10-12 minutes based on chunks’ size; larger pieces might need more time.
Let the pineapple cool slightly before serving, as it will be very hot. It’s a great treat on its own or as a topping for desserts, yogurt, or even grilled meats!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 whole pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or melted butter
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious air fryer grilled pineapple takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10-12 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need roughly 25-30 minutes to enjoy this sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is important because a hot air fryer helps to caramelize the sugars in the pineapple perfectly.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Then, take your bite-sized pineapple chunks and add them to the bowl. Drizzle the coconut oil or melted butter over the pineapple. Toss everything together gently until the pineapple is well coated with the sugar and spice mixture.
3. Air Fry the Pineapple:
Place the seasoned pineapple chunks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If you have a lot of pineapple, you might need to cook them in batches. This ensures that they cook evenly and get that nice char.
4. Cook Until Caramelized:
Air fry the pineapple for 10-12 minutes. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even cooking and browning. Keep an eye on them as they start to caramelize and get slightly charred—it’s when they’ll taste the best!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pineapple is finished and looking delicious, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Serve it warm, and if you’d like, garnish with fresh mint leaves. It’s perfect as a dessert or as a sweet addition to salads or grilled dishes. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Other Sweeteners Instead of Brown Sugar?
Yes! You can substitute brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or even coconut sugar. Just adjust the amount based on sweetness preference; for liquids like honey or maple syrup, you may need to reduce the amount of coconut oil slightly to maintain the right consistency.
What If I Don’t Have Cinnamon?
No worries! You can either omit the cinnamon or substitute it with nutmeg, allspice, or a pinch of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. Each will give your grilled pineapple a unique twist!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving to bring back some of the original texture and warmth.
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Also, reduce the cooking time to about 6-8 minutes, as canned pineapple is already soft and may cook faster than fresh.
