Sweet, tender, and juicy with a hint of caramelized flavor, these air-fried pineapples are simple to prepare and make a delightful snack or dessert. They develop lightly charred edges and a grilled texture that concentrates the fruit’s juices for a mouthwatering bite.
Air frying fruit is a fast, hands-off way to bring out natural sweetness and add a hint of caramel. Pineapple responds especially well — the heat softens the flesh while the sugar browns and intensifies the tropical flavor.
A light brushing of butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar create a simple glaze that boosts the pineapple’s flavor and prevents the sharp bite raw pineapple can sometimes have. The result is a warm, tender treat perfect on its own or paired with other dishes.
This recipe was tested in an Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven. Keep in mind that air fryers vary, so check on your pineapple the first time you make this to find the best timing for your model.
Reasons to Love
- Delicious and flavorful — The air fryer makes the pineapple tender and juicy while the cinnamon-sugar butter glaze caramelizes for great flavor.
- Quick and easy — Minimal prep and clean-up. Ready in minutes and versatile as a snack, dessert, or side.
- Simple ingredients — Made with just four everyday ingredients. Using canned rings keeps this recipe convenient year-round.
Ingredients
You can use canned pineapple rings (recommended for convenience), fresh rings, or chunks. If using fresh, slice evenly so pieces cook uniformly.
Ingredients used in this recipe:
- Pineapple — Canned rings are convenient year-round; fresh pineapple works well if sliced evenly.
- Unsalted butter — Softened so it spreads easily.
- Light brown sugar — Helps caramelize and sweeten the fruit.
- Ground cinnamon — Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
Scroll to the recipe card for exact quantities.
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (grill setting if available). Follow these steps for caramelized air-fryer pineapple:
Slice each pineapple ring into four even pieces and arrange on a plate.
Pat the pineapple pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Brush one side of each piece with softened butter.
Combine brown sugar and cinnamon, then lightly sprinkle the mixture over the buttered side.
Place pineapple pieces sugar-side down on the air fryer tray in a single layer so they don’t touch or overlap.
Brush the exposed side with the remaining butter and sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Give a final light sprinkle of the cinnamon-sugar so both sides have a touch of glaze.
Air fry at 400°F for about 6 minutes, or until the sugar is caramelized and the pineapple is tender. Watch closely the first time so it doesn’t over-brown.
Hint: Apply the cinnamon-sugar in a thin, even layer to avoid excess sweetness and reduce the chance of burning.
Variations
These air-fried pineapples are easy to adapt. Try one of these ideas to change the flavor profile:
- Swap the sweetener: Use honey or maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a different sweetness and glaze.
- Use fresh pineapple: In season, fresh pineapple provides peak flavor. Note that very ripe fruit may need less added sugar.
- Add heat: A pinch of cayenne or chili powder balances sweetness with a subtle kick.
- Make it indulgent: Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce just before serving.
- Add bacon: For a savory-sweet contrast, try wrapping pieces in bacon before air frying.
Tips
Top tip: Arrange pineapple in a single layer without overlapping so pieces cook evenly and the coating stays in place.
- Dry well: Pat pineapple completely dry before coating so butter and sugar adhere.
- Canned is convenient: Canned rings save prep time and make this recipe quick any time of year.
- Even coating: Cover each piece evenly with butter and cinnamon-sugar for balanced flavor.
- Preheat and use grill setting: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and use a grill or high-heat setting if available. Adjust times for different models.
- Prevent sticking: Lightly spray the tray or line it to make removal easier.
Serving suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert, or top yogurt and oatmeal. These pineapples also complement grilled meats, burgers, or seafood like shrimp skewers.
For a dairy-free option, serve with vegan whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Storage
Store cooled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat briefly in the air fryer or enjoy chilled.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fruit?
Yes. Fresh pineapple works well; just slice evenly and adjust added sugar to taste, since fresh fruit can be sweeter.
Can I use other sweeteners besides brown sugar?
Absolutely. Honey or maple syrup are good alternatives and pair nicely with butter and cinnamon.
How do I know the pineapples are done?
They should be slightly soft, juicy, and caramelized at the edges. If still firm, air fry a minute or two longer and watch closely to avoid burning.
Related Recipes
If you enjoy this, try other simple fruit desserts like individual peach cobbler, strawberry pound cake, banana lumpia, no-bake cheesecake jars, or a marshmallow fruit salad.
Questions about this recipe
Ask in a comment or refer to the recipe card below for details.
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Recipe
Air Fryer Grilled Pineapples
Ingredients
- 4 canned pineapple rings
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter softened
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
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Preheat air fryer using the grill setting to 400°F (205°C). Set time for 6 minutes.
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In a small bowl, combine light brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
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Slice pineapple rings into quarters, arrange on a plate, and pat dry.
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Brush one side of each piece with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar, and place sugar-side down on the air fryer tray.
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Brush remaining sides with butter and add any remaining cinnamon-sugar.
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Place the tray in the air fryer and grill for about 6 minutes, or until the sugar has caramelized and the pineapple is tender.
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Transfer to a plate to cool briefly. Serve warm on its own or with vanilla ice cream.
Notes
TIPS:
Preheat the air fryer on the grill setting to 400°F (205°C).
Ensure pineapple is dry before coating to help the glaze adhere.
Canned pineapple is convenient year-round; fresh fruit is great in season but may require less added sugar.