Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is a tasty and fun treat that’s super easy to make! Sweet pineapple slices get a lovely caramelized finish that makes each bite a delight.
Honestly, this dish is like a tropical vacation on a plate! I love serving it with vanilla ice cream for a yummy dessert or a simple snack. It’s hard to resist! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. Look for one that has a sweet aroma and gives slightly when pressed. If fresh isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple slices in juice, but make sure to drain and dry them before cooking.
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can replace it with maple syrup or coconut sugar – both provide a unique flavor that pairs well with pineapple.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth to the dish. For a twist, you might try using nutmeg or allspice. Just remember these spices are stronger, so start with less until you find your perfect flavor balance.
Butter or Coconut Oil: Both options work great, but coconut oil gives a tropical vibe that suits pineapple perfectly. If you want a dairy-free option, stick with coconut oil or any neutral oil you have on hand, like canola or grapeseed oil.
How Can I Make Sure My Pineapple is Perfectly Caramelized?
The key to caramelization is cooking the pineapple long enough at the right temperature. When you air fry at 375°F (190°C), the heat helps in breaking down sugars in the pineapple, leading to that delicious caramelization.
- Preheat your air fryer properly for even cooking.
- Drizzle your choice of melted butter or coconut oil over the pineapple to help it caramelize nicely.
- Arrange the pineapple in a single layer in the air fryer basket—overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure all sides get that golden color.
Let your pineapple cool slightly after air frying, as it will be hot. Enjoy the juicy, sweet treat on its own or as a delightful addition to other dishes!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty treat will take about 5 minutes for prep and about 12 minutes for cooking in the air fryer, so you’ll be enjoying your delicious grilled pineapple in around 20 minutes total. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Let it warm up for about 5 minutes while you prepare the pineapple. This helps achieve that perfect caramelized finish.
2. Prepare the Sugar and Spice Mix:
In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Give it a good mix until everything is combined. This mix will enhance the pineapple’s sweetness!
3. Coat the Pineapple Chunks:
Add the pineapple chunks to the bowl and drizzle with the melted butter or coconut oil. Toss everything together until the pineapple chunks are nicely coated with the sugary spice mix.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket:
Place the coated pineapple chunks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded to ensure even cooking. You might need to cook them in batches if you have a lot.
5. Air Fry the Pineapple:
Let the pineapple air fry for about 10-12 minutes. Be sure to shake the basket halfway through to help the pineapple cook evenly. Watch for that beautiful caramelization and golden-brown color!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pineapple from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to handle. Serve it warm, and for an extra special touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Enjoy your delicious air fryer grilled pineapple as a delightful dessert or a vibrant side dish!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to drain the canned pineapple well to remove excess liquid. This will help achieve that caramelized texture. Since canned pineapple is softer than fresh, reduce the air frying time by a couple of minutes to avoid overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold, or reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave until warm. Just be careful not to overdo it to keep it from becoming mushy!
Can I Use Different Sweeteners?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to reduce sugar or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like Stevia. Just remember that liquid sweeteners might add extra moisture, so adjust the melted butter accordingly to keep things balanced.
What Other Spices Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Other great additions include nutmeg, ginger, or even a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick. You can also mix in some vanilla extract for added flavor. Adjust the amounts based on your personal preference!
