Air Fryer Caramelized Pineapple

Nothing captures summer quite like warm caramelized pineapple straight from the air fryer. This recipe brings out the fruit’s natural sweetness with a quick toss of brown sugar and cinnamon, creating a dessert that is both simple and special. I reach for this recipe every time I want something crowd-pleasing and a little bit unexpected without heating up the oven.

The first time I made these, the smell alone had my whole family peeking into the kitchen. Ever since then, we love layering the pineapple over ice cream or even sneaking a slice as a midday snack.

Ingredients

• Fresh pineapple slices: Sweet juicy pineapple turns golden and caramelized when air fried. Use a ripe pineapple for best flavor and slice into even rings for even cooking.
• Brown sugar: Gives each slice a deep toffee-like sweetness. Choose dark brown for richer caramel tones and evenly sprinkle so each bite is coated.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a gentle spice warmth to balance the sweetness. Always use fresh ground for best flavor.
• Lime zest (optional): Adds a bright citrusy finish to keep each bite lively. Choose unwaxed limes if possible for more aromatic zest.

Instructions

Core and Slice the Pineapple:

Trim off the pineapple’s top and bottom. Stand upright and slice away the skin. Core and cut crosswise into rings no more than one fourth inch thick. Slightly thicker slices will not caramelize as evenly.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to four hundred degrees and let it run for about five minutes to ensure the basket is hot. This step guarantees you get a good sear right from the start.

Mix the Sugar and Cinnamon:

Combine the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir until the cinnamon is evenly dispersed through the sugar. This helps every slice get the right balance of flavor.

Sprinkle Pineapple Slices:

Arrange pineapple rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket so air circulates well. Lightly sprinkle the tops with the sugar cinnamon mix making sure to leave a little for flipping later.

Air Fry for First Side:

Close the basket and set the temperature to three hundred eighty degrees. Cook the pineapple for seven to eight minutes until the edges begin to caramelize and turn golden. You may hear some sizzling as the sugars melt and bubble.

Flip and Repeat:

Carefully flip each slice with tongs. Sprinkle the other side with the remaining sugar cinnamon mixture. Continue cooking another seven to eight minutes. Slice edges will get sticky and see a slight deepening in color.

Serve and Finish:

Plate warm pineapple as soon as it comes out. Top with a grating of lime zest if you want some brightness. These are fantastic as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even as a tropical breakfast topping.

I always look forward to using cinnamon with pineapple. There is something almost nostalgic about that aroma filling my kitchen, reminding me of pineapple buns baked by my grandmother on weekends. Even as grown ups we still sneak an extra spoonful of cinnamon into recipes because it just feels right.

Storage Tips

Once cooled, store leftover caramelized pineapple in an airtight container for up to three days. Refrigerate as soon as possible for best texture. Rewarm slices in the air fryer for two to three minutes or serve chilled over yogurt or oatmeal for a quick breakfast.

Ingredient Substitutions

Turbinado sugar can replace brown sugar if you want extra crunch and a lighter caramel flavor. Try nutmeg or cardamom instead of cinnamon for a new twist. Fresh pineapple works best but canned rings can be used in a pinch, just drain and pat dry well to avoid soggy slices.

Serving Suggestions

This warm pineapple is wonderful by itself, but it really shines over vanilla or coconut ice cream. Tuck slices into crepes or pancakes for a tropical brunch. Turn leftovers into a sweet salsa by dicing and mixing with a little jalapeno and red onion for tacos or grilled meats.

Cultural and Seasonal Notes

Caramelized pineapple is inspired by desserts served in many tropical regions where pineapple grows abundantly. In Brazil, grilled pineapple is often sprinkled with cinnamon at cookouts, making it both comforting and bold. Slice extra pineapple when the fruit is in peak season for naturally sweeter bites. Winter months are ideal for the air fryer version when you want something sunny on the table.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use mango or peaches instead of pineapple in summer for a similar effect. Swap cinnamon for ginger in autumn for a spicier flavor. Grate a little fresh nutmeg over the top in winter for holiday warmth.

Success Stories

Readers have written to say this recipe helped their kids try and love fresh pineapple for the first time. Another home cook shared that they served it as a light vegan dessert at a potluck and it disappeared within minutes. It is a tried and true choice for anyone looking to add a little tropical flair to their table.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Though best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze extra slices. Cool completely, then lay flat on parchment paper and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip top bag and store for up to three months. Reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer or chop and blend into smoothies.

These caramelized pineapple slices make any day feel like a vacation. Enjoy them fresh for the best flavor, and do not be surprised when everyone asks for seconds.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh or canned pineapple?

Both fresh and canned pineapple work well, but fresh gives the best caramelization and texture.

→ What other spices can I use?

Ginger or nutmeg can be added for extra warmth and depth of flavor alongside cinnamon.

→ Is air fryer preheating necessary?

Preheating ensures even caramelization and helps achieve a lightly crisped pineapple exterior.

→ How do I serve caramelized pineapple?

It's delicious on its own, over ice cream, yogurt, oatmeal, or paired with grilled meats.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Best served fresh, but leftovers keep in the fridge for up to two days and can be gently reheated.