Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is a sweet treat that’s super easy to make! Just slice fresh pineapple, sprinkle some cinnamon, and let the air fryer work its magic for a few minutes.
This juicy pineapple gives you those lovely caramelized edges, making it perfect on its own or on top of ice cream. Trust me, you’ll want to lick the plate! 🍍
I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a quick way to impress friends and family with a delightful dessert that’ll make their taste buds dance!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh, ripe pineapple is the star here. Look for one that’s sweet and has a nice aroma. If pineapple isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple chunks, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and enhances the caramelization process. You can substitute with coconut sugar or white sugar if needed, though they won’t give the same rich flavor.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon complements the sweetness of the pineapple perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using nutmeg or allspice for a different twist.
Butter: Using melted butter adds richness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil works well and adds a nice tropical flavor.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both add extra sweetness and can be omitted if you prefer a less sweet dish. Agave syrup can also work as a substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Pineapple Gets Perfectly Caramelized?
To achieve delicious caramelization, it’s important to coat the pineapple evenly and ensure they’re not crowded in the air fryer. This promotes even cooking and prevents sogginess.
- Make sure to preheat the air fryer before adding the pineapple. This helps kickstart caramelization.
- Toss the pineapple with brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl to ensure each piece is coated. If you added butter or sweeteners, mix well.
- Keep pineapple chunks in a single layer in the fryer. This ensures maximum exposure to the hot air.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to let all sides brown evenly. Don’t skip this step!
Let it cool slightly before enjoying. This smooths out the flavors and makes it a delightful topping for various desserts!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy treat. In just around 20 minutes, you can enjoy delicious, caramelized grilled pineapple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This helps ensure that the pineapple cooks evenly and caramelizes nicely.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
In a large bowl, add the pineapple chunks along with the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. If you’re adding melted butter and honey or maple syrup, go ahead and toss them in too. Mix everything well until the pineapple is fully coated with the sweet and spicy mixture.
3. Arrange the Pineapple in the Air Fryer:
Carefully place the coated pineapple chunks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they don’t overlap, as this helps them cook evenly and get that nice caramelization.
4. Cook the Pineapple:
Cook the pineapple for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This helps to ensure that all sides are cooked and golden brown. The pineapple is ready when it looks caramelized and slightly browned.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When the cooking time is up, remove the pineapple from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute or two. Serve it warm as a topping for delicious desserts like ice cream or yogurt, or enjoy it as a delightful side dish with grilled meats. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but be sure to drain it well to remove excess moisture. Additionally, reduce the cooking time to about 6-8 minutes, as canned pineapple is already soft and will cook faster.
What If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
No problem! You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar mixed with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of white sugar) or simply use granulated sugar and add a touch of maple syrup or honey to maintain some moisture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or a microwave for a few seconds to enjoy it warm again!
Can I Add Other Spices or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding nutmeg, ginger, or even chili powder for a spicy kick. You can also mix in other fruits like peaches or bananas for variation, just adjust the cooking time accordingly if the pieces are larger or juicier.
