Name: Air Fryer Pineapple
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings or chunks; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil; Optional: a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for serving

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Imagine biting into a perfectly caramelized piece of pineapple—juicy, sweet, with a subtle crispy edge. Trust me, this Air Fryer Pineapple is about to become your new favorite snack, side dish, or dessert. The air fryer magic transforms this tropical fruit into something so irresistible, you’ll want to make it again and again. It’s sweet, it’s tangy, it’s just the right amount of crispy, and I promise, it’ll blow your mind. Whether you’re craving a quick treat or need a fresh twist for a get-together, this recipe has got you covered!

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Pineapple

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating unforgettable moments. Whether you’re treating yourself to a late-night snack, preparing a fun side dish for dinner, or sharing something delicious at a barbecue, Air Fryer Pineapple fits every occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: It’s perfect for a quick snack, as a topping for your favorite dessert, or even as a fun side at your next cookout. The air fryer gives it a crisp caramelization that makes it feel extra special no matter when you serve it.
Budget-Friendly: Using just a fresh pineapple (which, let’s be honest, is an affordable and tropical treat), you’re creating a burst of flavor with minimal ingredients. The result? A dish that feels fancy without the fancy price tag.
Quick and Easy: Forget about complicated steps. With just a few simple moves, your pineapple will be transformed into something extraordinary in less than 15 minutes! It’s as easy as cutting, seasoning, and popping it into the air fryer.
Customizable: Want to give it a little extra kick? Try sprinkling a dash of chili powder or a drizzle of honey. Prefer something more classic? A simple sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar will do the trick.
Crowd-Pleasing: Honestly, who doesn’t love pineapple? It’s always a hit at gatherings and works great for kids and adults alike. Sweet, juicy, and just a little crispy—what’s not to love?

Ingredients in Air Fryer Pineapple

Here’s what you’ll need for this sweet treat:

Fresh Pineapple: This is the star of the show, bringing all that natural sweetness and tropical flavor.
Brown Sugar: For that caramelized goodness that makes each bite melt in your mouth.
Cinnamon: A warm touch of spice that complements the pineapple’s sweetness.
Butter: A small pat goes a long way to add richness and help everything crisp up beautifully.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this sweet and crispy masterpiece:

Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to around 375°F. This gives the pineapple just the right amount of heat to turn tender on the inside while getting crispy on the outside. Preheating ensures everything cooks evenly—don’t skip this step!

Prepare the Pineapple

Cut the pineapple into rings or chunks, depending on your preference. Make sure to remove the skin and core, leaving only the sweet, juicy flesh. The beauty of this step is that you can customize the shape to match your style—whether it’s rings for a fancy presentation or chunks for easy snacking.

Season the Pineapple

Sprinkle a little brown sugar and cinnamon on the pineapple pieces. If you want a richer flavor, add a small knob of butter on top. The sugar will caramelize in the air fryer, creating that perfect crispy edge, while the butter helps everything cook beautifully.

Cook to Perfection

Place the pineapple pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a bit of space between them. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll start to see a golden, crispy edge form—that’s when you know it’s time to pull it out!

Finishing Touches

Once it’s done, let it cool for just a minute. Then, serve it up warm for a burst of tropical goodness. It’s perfect on its own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

How to Serve Air Fryer Pineapple

This crispy, sweet pineapple is a fantastic addition to just about any meal or snack. Here are a few ideas for serving it:

As a Dessert: Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or top with a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat.
In a Salad: Toss it with fresh greens, a little feta, and a balsamic drizzle for a sweet and savory side salad.
With Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, pork, or fish for a tropical twist to your meal.
On Its Own: Sometimes, this crispy pineapple is all you need! Perfect as a snack or light dessert.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Prep Ahead: You can slice and season the pineapple the night before and store it in the fridge. That way, you’ll have a quick snack or dessert ready to go!
Mix Up the Flavors: Try adding a pinch of chili powder or a splash of rum extract to make things a bit more adventurous. It’s a great way to customize it for different tastes.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can skip the brown sugar or use a sugar alternative. The pineapple will still be delicious and naturally sweet!
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that crispy texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
A1: Fresh pineapple gives the best results, but if you’re in a pinch, canned pineapple (drained) can work too! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare the pineapple and season it ahead of time, then air fry it just before serving for that fresh, crispy texture.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftover pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp it up again.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Freezing is not recommended for this recipe as the texture may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Absolutely! Just make sure you don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed to ensure even crisping.

Q6: Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
A6: Yes, just skip the butter or use a plant-based alternative to make it fully vegan.

Conclusion

There you have it! This Air Fryer Pineapple is the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for when you need something quick, sweet, and totally delicious. The best part? You can customize it to your heart’s content, making it perfect for all your cravings. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a fresh pineapple, fire up that air fryer, and let’s make some crispy, sweet magic happen