This Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat! Just slice up fresh pineapples, sprinkle some brown sugar, and let the air fryer do its magic. Yum!
I’ve got to say, the caramelized edges are the best part. They’re like little flavor explosions! Pair it with ice cream, and you have a dessert that’s hard to beat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is key for this recipe. It offers a juicy texture and sweet flavor. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, you could use canned pineapple slices. Just make sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar slightly if needed, as they may be sweeter.
Brown Sugar: This adds a molasses-like flavor. If you want a healthier option, try coconut sugar or honey, but remember they will change the flavor profile slightly. Agave syrup can also work as a substitute!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for adding warmth. If you’re looking for a twist, you might try pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg. These alternatives can create a different but tasty flavor combination.
Melted Butter: For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter. I find that coconut oil adds a lovely tropical flavor that pairs nicely with the pineapple.
Vanilla Extract: This enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor. If you’re out of vanilla extract, a splash of almond extract can provide a nice alternative, though it will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Pineapple in the Air Fryer?
Getting that lovely grilled finish is all about the right technique when cooking in the air fryer. Here are steps to follow:
- Ensure your pineapple pieces are cut evenly. This helps with even cooking.
- Mix the coating well before adding the pineapple. This ensures every piece gets a good flavor boost.
- Preheating the air fryer is crucial. It helps to caramelize the sugar quickly for a nice exterior.
- Spread the pineapple in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can prevent proper cooking.
- Don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through! This promotes even cooking and caramelization.
- Check the pineapple for doneness at the 8-minute mark. You want it tender but still holding its shape.
These tips will help you achieve that rich, grilled flavor and sweet caramelization, perfect to serve warm!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium fresh pineapple
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. In no time, you’ll have warm, caramelized pineapple ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
Begin by peeling the fresh pineapple. Cut it into even-sized chunks or wedges, making sure they are not too thick. This will help them cook evenly and get that delicious grilled flavor.
2. Make the Coating:
In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well mixed. This sweet mixture will enhance the natural sweetness of the pineapple!
3. Coat the Pineapple:
Add the pineapple pieces to the bowl and gently toss them in the mixture until all the pieces are well-coated. It’s okay to use your hands to make sure every piece is covered in that tasty coating!
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is important because it helps the pineapple cook evenly and caramelize nicely.
5. Air Fry the Pineapple:
Arrange the coated pineapple pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overcrowded to allow hot air to circulate around each piece. Air fry them for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking and caramelization.
6. Check for Doneness:
After 10 minutes, check your pineapple. It should be tender with a delightful caramelized exterior. If you like it a bit more caramelized, feel free to air fry it for another minute or two!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pineapple is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm as a delicious dessert all on its own, or top it on ice cream or yogurt for an extra treat. Enjoy your refreshing snack!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but make sure to drain it well to remove excess moisture. You may want to reduce the cooking time to about 5-6 minutes, as canned pineapple is already soft and can caramelize quickly.
What if I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
No problem! You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for each cup of sugar). Alternatively, using coconut sugar can give a similar flavor and caramelization effect!
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 for about 3-4 minutes to regain some of the delicious caramelized texture, or enjoy it cold in fruit salads!
Can I Add Other Spices to the Mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even cayenne for a spicy kick. Just remember that a little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste!
