Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is a tasty treat that’s super easy to make! Just slice fresh pineapple, sprinkle a bit of sugar and cinnamon, and pop it in the air fryer for a quick cook.
This sweet treat adds a yummy twist to any meal. I like to serve it with ice cream for dessert, and trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time! 🍍🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A fresh, ripe pineapple is best for this recipe. If fresh pineapple is unavailable, canned pineapple chunks can work as a substitute but may not caramelize as nicely. I personally love selecting a pineapple that has a sweet smell at the base—it’s usually a sign it’s ripe!
Brown sugar: Brown sugar gives a nice depth of flavor with a hint of molasses. If you’re out, you can substitute it with regular granulated sugar or even coconut sugar for a different taste that’s equally delicious.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the pineapple. You can use nutmeg or allspice if you want to mix it up. I often add a pinch more than the recipe calls for because I enjoy the flavor it imparts!
Butter: This adds richness but is optional. For a lighter version, consider using coconut oil instead. It pairs perfectly with the tropical pineapple and gives it a lovely hint of flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Grilled Pineapple in an Air Fryer?
An air fryer can create gorgeous, caramelized pineapple if done correctly. The key is to toss the pineapple cubes well with the sugar mixture to coat them evenly.
- Preheat your air fryer properly; this helps to cook the pineapple evenly.
- Cook the pineapple in a single layer without overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate around each piece.
- Don’t skip shaking the basket halfway through! This ensures all sides get that delicious golden color.
These steps help to create perfectly grilled pineapple that’s warm, sweet, and bursting with flavor! Enjoy it next to ice cream or as a side to savory dishes.
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy grilled pineapple recipe will take you about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 5 minutes prepping and mixing your ingredients, and 10-12 minutes cooking in the air fryer. Easy and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for approximately 5 minutes. This helps ensure your pineapple cooks evenly and gets that nice grilled flavor.
2. Prepare the Sugar Mixture:
While the air fryer is heating up, grab a large bowl. In this bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This blend is going to give your pineapple a sweet and spicy kick!
3. Coat the Pineapple:
Next, add your pineapple cubes to the bowl with the sugar mixture. Toss them gently until the pineapple chunks are well coated in the sweet spice. If you’re using melted butter and vanilla extract, drizzle them over the pineapple now and give it another gentle toss.
4. Air Fry the Pineapple:
Carefully place the coated pineapple cubes into the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the basket so that each piece can get nicely cooked. Close the air fryer and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to help them brown evenly!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your pineapple is golden brown and caramelized, take it out of the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Now it’s ready to be served! Enjoy it warm as a delicious dessert, a delightful topping for ice cream, or alongside your favorite grilled meats. Yum!
Can I Use Fresh-Bagged Pineapple Instead of a Whole Pineapple?
Absolutely! If you prefer the convenience of pre-cut fresh pineapple, just make sure it’s firm and not overly ripe for the best results. You can skip the peeling and coring steps, and proceed to toss the cubes with the sugar mixture!
What Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with granulated white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of granulated sugar) for a similar flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar can also be a good substitute for a more natural option.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer for a few minutes, or enjoy cold as a sweet snack or addition to salads!
Can I Add Other Spices or Flavors?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger, or add a splash of rum or honey for extra flavor. Just adjust the amount according to your taste preferences. Always mix well to ensure even coating!
