Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat that’s super easy to make! Just slice fresh pineapple, sprinkle with a little sugar, and let the air fryer do its magic.
This treat is perfect as a dessert or a fun snack. I love serving it warm with some vanilla ice cream—it’s a treat that brightens any day! 🍍
Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple that’s slightly soft to the touch. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple chunks, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Brown Sugar: This adds a warm sweetness that pairs perfectly with pineapple. You can use coconut sugar or maple syrup as alternatives, but adjust the quantity as maple syrup is more liquid.
Cinnamon: Adds a cozy flavor to the dish. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with nutmeg or cardamom for a different twist, but use less since they are stronger spices.
Butter: Using melted butter boosts the flavor and richness, but if you want a lighter option, you can skip it or use coconut oil for a tropical flair.
Mint or Lime: Both add a refreshing touch! If you don’t have mint, you could use basil for an interesting twist.
How Can You Make Sure the Pineapple is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to getting perfectly cooked air-fried pineapple is in the prep and cooking techniques. Cutting the pineapple into uniform cubes helps them cook evenly. Make sure to toss them well in the sugar and spice mixture so every piece is coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to ensure it starts cooking right away. A hot air fryer helps caramelize the sugar effectively.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket! Arrange the pineapple cubes in a single layer for even cooking. If needed, cook in batches.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps the pineapple cubes brown on all sides.
When done, the pineapple should be golden and slightly caramelized, making it a delightful treat or side dish.
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional for added richness)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh mint or lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to cook. So, in total, you can enjoy this sweet treat in just under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sugar Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. If you want a little extra richness, add the melted butter. Stir everything together until well mixed and it forms a gooey mixture.
2. Coat the Pineapple:
Add the bite-sized pineapple cubes to the bowl with the sugar mixture. Gently toss the pineapple cubes until they are evenly coated with the sweet and spicy mix. Make sure every piece gets a good little hug from the flavors!
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to preheat at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help give your pineapple a nice grill and caramelization.
4. Air Fry the Pineapple:
Once preheated, carefully place the coated pineapple cubes into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not too crowded—if needed, you can do this in batches to let each piece cook perfectly.
5. Cook the Pineapple:
Air fry the pineapple for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to ensure all sides get that beautiful golden color and nice caramelization. Keep an eye on them as they start to sizzle!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pineapple is golden brown and caramelized, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Serve it warm, and if you like, add a garnish of chopped fresh mint or some lime wedges on the side. Enjoy this sweet treat as a dessert or alongside your favorite grilled meats!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but it’s best to use pineapple chunks packed in juice, not syrup. Drain the pineapple well and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. The cooking time may be shorter, so check for caramelization at around 6-8 minutes.
How to Make This Recipe Vegan-Friendly?
To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the melted butter or substitute it with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. The dish will still be delicious and full of flavor!
Can I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Absolutely! Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to bring back the warmth and caramelization.
What Other Spices Can I Use for Different Flavors?
Feel free to experiment with different spices! For a more tropical flavor, you can try adding nutmeg or ginger. A splash of vanilla extract in the brown sugar mixture can also enhance the sweetness. Just adjust according to your taste preferences!
