This air fryer grilled pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat that’s super easy to make! With caramelized edges, it’s perfect as a dessert or as a fun topping on burgers or tacos.
You know, nothing beats that warm, sweet aroma filling the kitchen. I often serve it with a scoop of ice cream, and trust me, it’s a match made in heaven. 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is best, giving a sweet and juicy flavor. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple chunks can work too—just make sure they’re packed in juice and drained well.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the pineapple. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use honey or maple syrup, but start with less since they’re sweeter.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon gives warmth to the dish. You can swap it for nutmeg or even a dash of allspice if you’re craving a different taste.
Coconut Oil: Using melted coconut oil adds a nice tropical flavor! You can substitute regular vegetable oil or melted butter if you don’t have coconut oil on hand.
How Do I Ensure My Pineapple is Perfectly Grilled in the Air Fryer?
The key to getting perfectly grilled pineapple is in how you prepare and cook it. Start by preheating the air fryer—it helps the pineapple caramelize right away.
- Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, melted coconut oil, and salt in a bowl before adding the pineapple. This ensures an even coating.
- Spread the pineapple in a single layer in the basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to allow all pieces to get that beautiful golden color.
- Keep an eye on them; cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer model you have.
Let the grilled pineapple cool before serving. It’s delicious as is, but a sprinkle of fresh mint really brightens it up!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium pineapple, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious air fryer grilled pineapple takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 12 minutes to cook. So, in just under half an hour, you’ll have a sweet and caramelized treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook the pineapple.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a large mixing bowl, take the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted coconut oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix them together well until everything is combined into a nice sauce.
3. Toss the Pineapple:
Add your pineapple chunks to the bowl and gently toss them in the coating until every piece is evenly covered. Make sure they’re all well coated for maximum flavor!
4. Arrange in Air Fryer:
Carefully place the coated pineapple chunks in the air fryer basket. Spread them out in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook them in batches.
5. Air Fry the Pineapple:
Cook the pineapple for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to give the basket a gentle shake halfway through to help them cook evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when they look golden and a bit caramelized.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once your pineapple is done, take it out of the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help prevent any burns from the hot fruit. Serve it warm, and if you want, add some fresh mint leaves on top for an extra touch of flavor and color.
Can I Use Fresh or Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
Fresh pineapple is preferred for its sweetness and texture, but you can also use canned pineapple. If using canned, opt for chunks in 100% juice or light syrup, and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Coconut Oil?
No problem! You can substitute coconut oil with melted butter or another oil like olive oil or canola oil. Each will change the flavor slightly, but they’ll all work well for grilling the pineapple.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes or enjoy it cold in fruit salads or smoothies!
Can I Add Other Spices or Flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like ginger or nutmeg. You could also add a splash of vanilla extract to the coating for extra flavor. Just remember to adjust the sugar according to your taste!
