Craving a quick tropical treat? This air fryer pineapple brings golden, caramelized sweetness in just minutes. Juicy pineapple gets a warm cinnamon-sugar coating that turns crisp at the edges and stays soft in the center. It’s light, healthy, and ready in under 25 minutes. You can make it with fresh, canned, or frozen pineapple for a year-round dessert or snack.
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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS AIR FRYER PINEAPPLE
This recipe takes the simple sweetness of pineapple and turns it into something extra special. The air fryer gives it that grilled, caramelized flavor without needing to heat up the kitchen.
It’s quick, needs only a few pantry staples, and fits perfectly as a dessert, breakfast topper, or snack. The brown sugar melts into a syrupy glaze while cinnamon adds a cozy, spiced touch.
You’ll also love how easy cleanup is. Just one bowl, one basket, and a treat that’s warm, juicy, and naturally sweet. Whether you use fresh pineapple for texture or canned for convenience, this recipe always turns out delicious.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
You’ll need juicy pineapple, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. That’s it. These three simple ingredients create a caramelized, golden coating with sweet, spiced flavor.
The pineapple gives tropical freshness, brown sugar adds depth, and cinnamon brings warmth. Together they form that perfect balance of sweet and cozy flavor you’ll want again and again.
INGREDIENT SUBSTITUTIONS AND VARIATIONS
You can use frozen or canned pineapple if you don’t have fresh. Just shorten the cooking time since it’s softer. Coconut or maple sugar also works beautifully for a different flavor twist.
If you love spices, try allspice, cloves, or cardamom instead of cinnamon. Add a splash of vanilla for richness or sprinkle a pinch of chili powder for a sweet and spicy bite. Each version adds something unique and fun.
HOW TO MAKE AIR FRYER PINEAPPLE
Preheat and Prepare the Pineapple
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Cut and core your pineapple, then slice it into cubes, spears, or rings. Keep the pieces even so they cook evenly.
Toss with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon
In a large bowl, mix the pineapple pieces with brown sugar and cinnamon until well coated. This helps create that golden, caramelized finish.
Lightly Spray the Basket
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil or nonstick spray. Spread pineapple in a single layer so the air can circulate freely.
Cook cubes or rings for 12 to 16 minutes, spears for 16 to 18 minutes, and canned pieces for 8 to 10 minutes.
Flip for Even Cooking
Flip the pineapple halfway through so both sides caramelize evenly. Look for golden edges and a glossy, sticky coating. That’s your cue it’s done.
Cool and Serve
Let the pineapple cool for a few minutes before serving. The syrup thickens slightly as it cools, making every bite sweet and chewy.
EXPERT TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS
Cut the pineapple evenly to get that perfect caramelization. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, or it won’t crisp properly. Flip halfway to get even browning.
If you want extra glaze, drizzle a little honey near the end of cooking. Fresh pineapple gives the best texture, but canned works when you’re short on time.
Each air fryer cooks differently, so keep an eye on the color and adjust the time as needed. You’re aiming for a deep golden tone with a light crust.
SERVING IDEAS AND PAIRINGS
Serve air fryer pineapple warm or at room temperature. It’s amazing on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
For breakfast, top pancakes, French toast, or yogurt with a few caramelized pieces. For dessert, add them to pound cake, bread pudding, or even waffles.
It’s also perfect for brunch platters with ham, grilled chicken, or roasted veggies. The tropical flavor fits almost any meal or occasion.
STORAGE AND REHEATING TIPS
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavor stays rich, though the texture softens slightly.
When ready to eat, reheat for 20 to 30 seconds in the microwave or about a minute in the air fryer. The edges will turn slightly crisp again, and the sugar will shine.
OTHER RECIPES YOU MAY ENJOY
- Sweet air fryer churro bites
- Quick and crispy air fryer biscuit donuts
- Air fryer fried pickles snack
- Easy air fryer parmesan crusted chicken
- Air fryer chocolate chip cookies dessert
- Air fryer egg and cheese toast breakfast
CONCLUSION
This air fryer pineapple is a quick, tropical favorite that’s sweet, warm, and effortless. It’s perfect for any time you want something fun and fruity without a lot of prep.
Try it tonight and share it with your family. It’s simple, tasty, and guaranteed to brighten your day. For more easy air fryer ideas, visit Pinterest.
Air Fryer Pineapple
Equipment
- Air fryer Preheat to 375°F (190°C)
- Large mixing bowl Use to coat pineapple evenly
- Knife To cut and core pineapple
Ingredients
- Fresh pineapple, cut into cubes, spears, or rings
- Light brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cut and core the pineapple, then slice into evenly sized cubes, rings, or spears.
- In a mixing bowl, toss pineapple pieces with brown sugar and cinnamon until evenly coated.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray. Arrange pineapple in a single layer.
- Air fry for 6–8 minutes, flip, then cook another 6–8 minutes until golden and caramelized. Adjust time based on shape and air fryer model.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm on its own or with ice cream, pancakes, or French toast.
