This Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is a fun and tasty treat! Sweet pineapple slices get a nice caramelized look in just minutes and smell amazing as they cook.
It’s a great way to add a fruity twist to your BBQ or dessert time. I love to serve it with ice cream or just enjoy it warm on its own—so refreshing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is key for sweetness and juiciness. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple can work too, but make sure it’s packed in juice, not syrup. I love the vibrant flavor of fresh, though!
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich sweetness and helps caramelize the pineapple. For a healthier option, you can use coconut sugar or even honey, though honey may alter the flavor a bit.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is perfect here for warmth. If you don’t have cinnamon, you could use nutmeg for a different, yet tasty, spice undertone.
Coconut Oil: I love using melted coconut oil for its unique flavor, but you can easily substitute with vegetable or canola oil if you prefer something milder.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint is optional but adds a refreshing touch. If you don’t have it, try a sprinkle of lime juice for brightness instead!
How Do I Ensure My Pineapple Gets Perfectly Grilled in the Air Fryer?
The secret to getting that perfect grilled look and taste is in the way you prepare and cook the pineapple. Make sure you spread the sugar mixture evenly across the chunks to enhance the caramelization.
- Preheat your air fryer for even cooking!
- Toss pineapple gently but evenly in the brown sugar mix to coat.
- Place the chunks in a single layer in the basket to avoid steaming – this helps with that golden crust.
- Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking to get an even char.
Once they’re caramelized, let them cool for a tad before serving. This enhances the flavors and makes them even more delicious!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 medium fresh pineapple, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or any neutral oil)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, in just about 15-17 minutes, you’ll have a delicious treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is important because it ensures even cooking and helps the pineapple caramelize nicely.
2. Make the Coating:
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted coconut oil, and a pinch of salt. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until you create a thick paste. This mixture will add a sweet and spicy flavor to the pineapple!
3. Coat the Pineapple:
Now, add the pineapple chunks into the bowl with the sugar mixture. Toss the pineapple pieces well, ensuring they are fully coated with the tasty mixture. You want every piece to be covered so they all get that yummy flavor!
4. Air Fry the Pineapple:
Place the coated pineapple chunks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If your air fryer is small, you may need to do this in batches so that they cook evenly. Close the air fryer and cook for 10-12 minutes.
5. Shake It Up:
About halfway through the cooking time, give the basket a good shake. This helps the pineapple to cook evenly and get those nice caramelized grill marks. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once the pineapple is cooked and beautifully caramelized, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Let it cool slightly before serving. This is a great treat to enjoy warm, whether as a dessert or a delightful side dish!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, add some fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Now you’re ready to dig in and enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but keep in mind that fresh pineapple will yield better texture and flavor. If using canned, make sure to drain it well and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help it caramelize better while cooking.
What Other Seasonings Can I Use?
Feel free to experiment with other spices! You can try using nutmeg, ginger, or even a splash of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the amounts to your taste preference — start with small amounts and see what you like best!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can be enjoyed cold or reheated briefly in the air fryer or microwave. If reheating, do so quickly to avoid losing its juicy texture.
Can I Add Other Fruits to the Air Fryer?
Absolutely! You can add fruits like peaches, mangoes, or bananas alongside the pineapple. Just cut them into similar sizes and adjust the cooking time if needed, as some fruits may cook faster than pineapple.
