Air-fried pineapple is a quick and delicious way to enjoy caramelized tropical fruit with minimal effort. Here’s everything you need to know:
Most recipes follow this simple approach: cook fresh pineapple at 375°F (190°C) for 10-16 minutes total, flipping halfway through.
Ingredients & Variations
Simplest version (from Allrecipes):
- Fresh pineapple only (cored and sliced into rings)
Enhanced version (most common):
- Fresh pineapple (cubed, speared, or ringed)
- 2-3 tablespoons brown sugar (or maple syrup/coconut sugar)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for richer flavor)
Substitutions:
- Canned pineapple: Works but must be drained and patted dry; cooks faster
- Sugar alternatives: Maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar
- Spices: Try ginger, cardamom, or vanilla instead of cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep: Core and cut pineapple into evenly-sized pieces (rings, spears, or 1-inch chunks)
- Coat: Toss with brown sugar and cinnamon if using
- Preheat: Set air fryer to 375°F
- Arrange: Place in single layer on parchment paper or greased basket—don’t overcrowd
- Cook: Air fry 5-8 minutes, flip pieces, then cook another 5-8 minutes until golden and caramelized
- Serve: Let cool slightly (sugar will be hot) and enjoy warm
Pro Tips
- Flip halfway for even caramelization
- Shake basket if using basket-style air fryer
- Watch closely—cooking times vary by air fryer model and pineapple size
- Riper pineapple yields sweeter results
Serving Ideas
- Dessert: Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
- Breakfast: Serve over pancakes, waffles, or yogurt
- Savory: Pair with grilled chicken, pork, fish, or tacos
- Snack: Eat straight from the air fryer
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate in airtight container for 2-4 days
- Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes for best texture
Nutrition Note
Plain air-fried pineapple retains most nutrients, though some vitamin C loss occurs during cooking. A typical serving (without added sugar) has about 60 calories and is fat-free. With brown sugar and butter, calories increase modestly to about 62-341 calories per serving depending on portion size and ingredients.
The air fryer concentrates pineapple’s natural sugars, creating a grilled-like texture with crispy edges in under 20 minutes—no outdoor grill needed!
