Enjoy sweet and juicy grilled pineapple right from your air fryer! This quick recipe makes perfect, caramelized slices that are simply mouthwatering.
I love serving these warm slices over ice cream or just enjoying them on their own. Seriously, these are mini tropical vacations on a plate! 🍍✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is crucial for this recipe. Look for one that’s sweet-smelling and slightly soft when pressed. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple chunks in juice can work, but they may be juicier and have a different texture.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel flavor. If you don’t have it, white sugar with a touch of molasses (about 1 teaspoon) can be used as a substitute. You could also try coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Coconut Oil: I love melted coconut oil for its slight coconut flavor. You can replace it with any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil if you prefer. Just make sure it’s safe for high temperatures.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings warmth to the dish. You can swap it out for nutmeg or a pumpkin spice mix for a different flavor, but cinnamon is classic!
Honey or Maple Syrup: This drizzle is optional, but it enhances the sweetness a lot. If you are vegan, stick with maple syrup. Agave nectar is another good substitute if you’re looking for something lighter.
How Do I Get the Perfect Caramelization on My Pineapple?
Caramelizing pineapple makes it so delicious! The key is to coat the pineapple evenly and give it enough time in the air fryer. Here are some steps to help you achieve perfect caramelization:
- Mix the pineapple with brown sugar, cinnamon, coconut oil, and salt in a bowl. Ensure each piece is well-coated; this helps in caramelization.
- Preheat your air fryer properly. A consistent temperature of 375°F ensures the sugar melts and caramelizes without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Cook the pineapple in a single layer to allow hot air to circulate around each piece, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Shake the basket halfway through the cook time. This prevents them from sticking together and promotes even browning.
Once you see a nice golden brown on the edges, you’ll know you got it right! Enjoy your delicious grilled pineapple!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 12 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. In total, you’ll need approximately 17 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious dessert or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This will help the pineapple cook evenly and get that delicious caramelization.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
In a large mixing bowl, put the bite-sized pineapple chunks. Add the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted coconut oil, and a pinch of salt. Using your hands or a spatula, toss everything together until the pineapple pieces are well-coated and look shiny. Yum!
3. Load the Air Fryer Basket:
Carefully place the coated pineapple chunks into the air fryer basket. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer without overcrowding. This allows the hot air to circulate around the pineapple for even cooking.
4. Cook the Pineapple:
Cook the pineapple in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes. At the halfway mark, give the basket a shake. This helps to ensure that all sides get that lovely caramelized look. You’re looking for a nice golden color and a bit of char on the edges!
5. Drizzle and Serve:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pineapple from the air fryer. If you want, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the top for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful treat!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but it’s important to drain it well to remove excess moisture. Pat the chunks dry with paper towels before tossing them with the sugar and spices. Keep in mind that canned pineapple may not get as caramelized as fresh, so adjust your cooking time slightly if needed.
What Other Spices Can I Add?
Feel free to experiment! You can add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder. Just start with a small amount and adjust to taste!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold, or reheat it gently in the microwave or air fryer for a few minutes to bring back some of that warmth!
Can I Grill Pineapple Without an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! You can grill pineapple on an outdoor grill or even a stovetop grill pan. Just follow the same coating instructions and grill on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until nicely charred. This method will give you that delicious smoky flavor!
