This Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is a treat! Sweet, juicy slices of pineapple get a nice caramelized finish quickly, making it perfect for summer BBQs or a fun snack.
Honestly, it feels like a dessert, and it’s so easy to make! Just slice, season with a sprinkle of brown sugar, and let the air fryer do its magic. Yum! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is the star of this dish! Look for one that’s firm and fragrant. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple rings can work in a pinch, though they won’t taste quite as fresh.
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich flavor. If you’re out, use regular sugar or coconut sugar. Each gives a slightly different sweetness, so feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste.
Cinnamon: A classic pairing with pineapple! If you don’t have cinnamon, try nutmeg or allspice for a warm flavor twist. Just use less since they are stronger spices.
Olive Oil: It’s optional, but I like adding it for a bit of richness. If you’re looking for a substitute, melted coconut oil works well here too.
Salt: A pinch usually helps to enhance the sweetness. If you’re avoiding salt, you can skip it entirely, but a little goes a long way!
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Pineapple in the Air Fryer?
Grilling pineapple in an air fryer can be super easy and tasty. The key is to get that caramelization just right which brings out the sweetness. Here’s how to do that:
- **Preheat Properly:** Always preheat your air fryer as it allows for even cooking.
- **Cut Uniformly:** Whether you cut the pineapple into cubes or slices, keep them the same size to ensure even cooking.
- **Coat Evenly:** Tossing the pineapple in the cinnamon-sugar mixture ensures every piece gets a nice flavor. Use your hands or a spoon to make sure all sides are coated.
- **Single Layer Cooking:** Air fry in a single layer. This helps with getting those lovely grill marks and a caramelized texture. Cook in batches if necessary.
- **Check in on Them:** Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
Following these tips will help you achieve wonderfully caramelized pineapple that’s juicy and delicious!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cored
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and roughly 10-12 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy treat! So, in total, you’ll be enjoying your grilled pineapple in about 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This should take about 5 minutes. Preheating helps give your pineapple that delicious grilled effect!
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
While the air fryer is heating up, peel and core the fresh pineapple. Then, cut it into bite-sized cubes or thick slices—whatever you prefer! Just make sure they’re all about the same size for even cooking.
3. Mix the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. If you like a little extra richness, you can drizzle olive oil over the pineapple chunks and toss them gently to coat. This is optional, but it adds great flavor!
4. Coat the Pineapple:
Next, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over your prepared pineapple. Toss everything together until the pineapple pieces are evenly coated. You want each piece to soak up that sweet and spicy goodness!
5. Air Fry the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to cook! Place the coated pineapple pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If your air fryer is small, you might need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding. This helps them get nice and caramelized!
6. Cook to Perfection:
Air fry the pineapple for about 10-12 minutes. Don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for that perfect caramelization and some lovely grill marks!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, carefully remove the pineapple from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm as a dessert or use it as a delicious topping for yogurt, ice cream, or pancakes. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
While fresh pineapple works best for grilling, you can use canned pineapple if needed. Just make sure to pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which can prevent caramelization. Adjust the cooking time to around 5-8 minutes since canned pineapple is already soft.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the air fryer for a couple of minutes or enjoy it cold in salads or smoothies!
Can I Substitute the Brown Sugar?
Yes! You can use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar as alternatives. If using liquid sweeteners like honey, reduce the olive oil slightly or consider skipping it altogether to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Pineapple?
Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with sweet and savory dishes. Try serving it over vanilla ice cream, incorporating it into fruit salads, or adding it to savory tacos for a delightful contrast!
