Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is a fun and tasty treat! With just a few slices of fresh pineapple and a sprinkle of brown sugar, you’ll get sweet, caramelized goodness right at home.
Picture this: juicy pineapple getting all warm and sticky in the air fryer—yum! I like to serve it with ice cream; it’s a perfect summer dessert that is so easy to whip up. 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is essential for this recipe. It gives a juicy, sweet flavor. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple can work, but drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds caramel flavor and moisture. You can substitute with coconut sugar or even white sugar if it’s all you have, but the taste won’t be the same.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings warmth and depth to the pineapple. If you’re not a fan, you could skip it or try nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor.
Coconut Oil: I love using melted coconut oil for its tropical flavor, but melted butter works just as well. If you need a dairy-free option, stick with the coconut oil or use a neutral vegetable oil.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds a refreshing touch to the dish. If you don’t have mint, try adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts for some crunch instead.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Pineapple in the Air Fryer?
Grilling pineapple is all about achieving that nice caramelization without drying it out. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, preheat your air fryer! Getting it to the right temperature locks in moisture.
- When coating the pineapple, mix well until every cube is covered evenly. This helps with caramelization.
- Arrange the pineapple in a single layer in the basket. Don’t overcrowd it; this allows hot air to circulate.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps each piece grill evenly and prevents sticking.
- Keep an eye on the time. About 10-12 minutes should do, but check for a nice golden color.
Let the pineapple cool a bit before serving, as it can get very hot. Enjoy your delicious treat on its own or with yogurt or ice cream!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium fresh pineapple, peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or melted butter)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe only takes about 5 minutes to prepare and another 10-12 minutes to cook, making the total time around 15-17 minutes. You’ll enjoy a delicious treat in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Begin by turning on your air fryer and setting the temperature to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential to ensure your pineapple grills perfectly.
2. Coat the Pineapple:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized pineapple cubes with the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted coconut oil (or butter), and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together until the pineapple pieces are well coated in this sweet and flavorful mix.
3. Arrange the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to place the coated pineapple cubes into the air fryer basket. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer—this helps them cook evenly and caramelize nicely.
4. Air Fry the Pineapple:
Air fry the pineapple at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to make sure all sides of the pineapple are nicely grilled. The pineapple should come out caramelized and slightly golden.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully take the grilled pineapple out of the air fryer and let it cool for a minute. If you like, garnish it with fresh mint leaves for a touch of color and flavor. Serve it warm as a scrumptious snack, dessert, or even on top of yogurt, ice cream, or salads!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple! Just make sure to drain it well to avoid extra moisture that can affect caramelization. Since canned pineapple is softer, reduce the air frying time to about 6-8 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Oil?
If you don’t have coconut oil, melted butter or a neutral oil like canola or avocado oil works great as substitutes. Each of these will add a slightly different flavor, but they will still help achieve that delicious caramelization.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back into the air fryer for a few minutes or heat it in a microwave until warmed through. It makes a great addition to morning oatmeal or smoothies!
Can I Add Other Spices or Ingredients?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or even a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. You might also consider adding a sprinkle of chili powder for a spicy kick!
