Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is a sweet and easy treat that’s sure to brighten your day! With just pineapple slices and a sprinkle of sugar, it becomes caramelized and amazing.
It’s like a mini tropical getaway right in your kitchen! I love serving it warm with ice cream for a tasty dessert—who can resist that combo? 🍍🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Make sure to choose a ripe pineapple for the best sweetness and flavor. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple works fine too—just drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Brown Sugar: This gives a lovely caramelization and depth of flavor. If you’re out, try using white sugar mixed with a little molasses, or coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and richness. If you’re a cinnamon lover, feel free to double the amount! You can also swap it for nutmeg or allspice if you want to switch up the flavor.
Honey: While it’s optional, honey enhances the sweetness. Maple syrup is a great alternative if you’re looking for a vegan option or simply want a different taste.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and aids in caramelization. Coconut oil is a flavorful substitute, especially if you’re aiming for a tropical taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Pineapple Cooks Evenly in the Air Fryer?
To achieve perfectly grilled pineapple, it’s crucial to have even spacing in the air fryer. Follow these steps to ensure great results:
- Preheat your air fryer to the right temperature before adding the pineapple. This helps with caramelizing.
- Mix your pineapple chunks thoroughly with the coating before placing them in the basket.
- Arrange the chunks in a single layer, leaving space between them. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking.
- Don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through cooking! This lets the hot air circulate better.
- Keep an eye on them towards the end; cooking times can vary between air fryer models.
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 honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted coconut oil)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple in about 15-17 minutes!
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 those delicious caramelized edges.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
In a large mixing bowl, add the pineapple chunks, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. If you like your pineapple sweeter, drizzle in the honey as well. Toss everything together until the pineapple is well coated in the mixture.
3. Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket:
Take the coated pineapple pieces and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It’s important not to overcrowd them, as this will help them cook evenly and get that nice grilled effect.
4. Cook the Pineapple:
Set the air fryer to cook for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking for even grilling. The pineapple is done when the edges are caramelized and the fruit is tender and juicy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the grilled pineapple from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm as a delightful side dish, a sweet dessert, or even as a tasty topping for yogurt or ice cream!
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple is preferred for its texture and flavor, you can use canned pineapple in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent the caramelization you’re aiming for. Reduce the cooking time to about 5-7 minutes since canned pineapple is already soft.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of This Recipe?
If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or omit the honey altogether. Alternatively, if you like it sweeter, feel free to add more honey or even a splash of maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Adjust to your taste!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to get that grilled texture back. You can also enjoy it cold in salads or with yogurt!
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Other fruits like peaches, mangoes, or even apples can be grilled in the air fryer using the same method. Just remember to adjust cooking times, as firmer fruits may take a bit longer, while softer fruits may need less time.
