Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is a sweet, juicy treat that’s super easy to make! You toss fresh pineapple slices in the air fryer, and they come out warm with a caramelized touch. Yum!
You’ll love how the air fryer gives it a beautiful char without needing a grill. Perfect as a snack or dessert! I like to serve mine with a scoop of ice cream—and who can resist that combo? 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is key for this recipe, as it has the best flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple pieces can work, but they might be softer and less flavorful.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps the pineapple caramelize. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar, but add a little molasses if you have it for a deeper flavor.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings warmth and spice. If you want to mix it up, try nutmeg or allspice for a different twist.
Butter: While added melted butter enhances flavor, you can skip it to keep things lighter or use coconut oil for a tropical feel.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances sweetness. If you’re reducing sodium, you can leave it out.
How Do I Peel and Cut a Pineapple Like a Pro?
Pineapples can be tricky to prepare, but with a few steps, it’s easy. Start by cutting off the top and bottom to create a stable base. Stand the pineapple upright, then slice down the sides to remove the peel, making sure to cut deep enough to remove the “eyes” (the little brown spots).
- Once peeled, cut the pineapple in half lengthwise, and then into quarters to remove the tough core.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces or wedges for easy air frying.
Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if it takes a few tries to get it right!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- Cooking spray (for greasing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 10-12 minutes of cooking time. It’s a quick and easy treat that brings out the natural sweetness of the pineapple, perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
Start by peeling the fresh pineapple. Cut off the top and bottom, then carefully remove the skin. Make sure to take out any of the little brown “eyes” you see. Once it’s peeled, slice the pineapple into bite-sized cubes or wedges based on your preference. The key is to make them all about the same size so they cook evenly!
2. Season the Pineapple:
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt (if you’d like). If you want to add a bit more flavor, pour in 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Toss the pineapple pieces in this mixture until they are all nicely coated—this will help create that delicious caramelization while cooking!
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This should take about 5 minutes, which gives you just enough time to get organized for cooking!
4. Cook the Pineapple:
Once your air fryer is ready, lightly coat the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the seasoned pineapple in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, making sure to shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they are done when they are golden brown and nicely caramelized!
5. Serve:
When the pineapple is finished cooking, take it out of the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm as a yummy side dish, as a topping for desserts, or even mixed into salads for a sweet twist. Enjoy your deliciously sweet and caramelized air fryer grilled pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but keep in mind that it may be softer and have more moisture than fresh pineapple. Drain the canned pineapple well and pat it dry with paper towels before tossing it in the seasoning mixture. Reduce the cooking time to about 6-8 minutes to avoid mushiness!
What if I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a little molasses (about 1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of sugar) for a similar flavor. Alternatively, using regular white sugar will also work; just note that the flavor will be slightly different.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer for a few minutes to warm it through, or enjoy it cold in salads or desserts!
Can I Add Other Spices or Flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor kick. You can also drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the pineapple before air frying for added sweetness.
