Crispy Air Fryer Pineapple Spears

Craving a taste of the tropics but don’t want to fire up the grill? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Air Fryer Pineapple! In just 12 minutes, you can have juicy pineapple cubes or rings with a caramelized coating that tastes like a gourmet dessert. The magic of brown sugar and cinnamon transforms this humble fruit into a decadent treat that will have your taste buds singing.

My Air Fryer Pineapple recipe was a result of a rainy day craving for grilled pineapple, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The air fryer works its charm, giving the pineapple those coveted golden edges while keeping it sweet and succulent inside. It’s a quick and easy way to elevate your fruit game, perfect for a wholesome snack or a fancy dessert. So, grab that ripe pineapple, sprinkle on some brown sugar and cinnamon, and let the air fryer work its magic for a delightful treat that will transport you to a sunny paradise.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy dessert: Ready in just 12 minutes
• Caramelized perfection: Brown sugar creates a delicious caramel coating
• Aromatic and flavorful: Cinnamon adds warmth to every bite
• Versatile: Perfect for serving over ice cream or incorporating into breakfast

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Pineapple Spears Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 12 minutes, this recipe is perfect for satisfying sudden cravings or whipping up a quick dessert.
• Gourmet Flavor: The combination of caramelized brown sugar and aromatic cinnamon elevates the humble pineapple into a sophisticated dessert that tastes like it’s from a fancy restaurant.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the sweet and juicy pineapple paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Versatile: Enjoy this caramelized pineapple on its own, over ice cream, or as a topping for breakfast dishes like yogurt or pancakes.
• Healthier Alternative: Using the air fryer instead of grilling reduces the need for excessive oil, making this a lighter option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Perfectly Caramelized: The air fryer creates that ideal golden color and caramelization on the edges while keeping the inside juicy, making every bite a delight.
• Budget-Friendly: With just a few simple ingredients, including a ripe pineapple, brown sugar, and cinnamon, you can create a delicious dessert that won’t break the bank.
• Pro Tips for Success: Patting the pineapple dry before air frying ensures better caramelization, and flipping the pieces halfway through cooking guarantees even browning all around.

Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Pineapple Spears

• 2-4 tablespoons light brown sugar.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
• 1 pineapple, cut into cubes, spears or rings (about 4 cups).

Pro Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Pineapple Spears

Pro tip: Before air frying, make sure to pat the pineapple pieces dry to enhance caramelization. This step will help the brown sugar create that delicious caramel coating we all crave.

Pro tip: To ensure even cooking, cut the pineapple into uniform pieces. This will help all the pineapple to cook consistently, preventing some pieces from overcooking while others are underdone.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to flip the pineapple halfway through cooking for perfectly caramelized edges all around. This step is essential for achieving that golden color and ensuring each piece is coated with the delicious caramel-like texture.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Pineapple Spears

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Cut pineapple into uniform pieces.

Step 2: Step 02

Mix pineapple pieces with brown sugar and cinnamon until evenly coated.

Step 3: Step 03

Coat air fryer basket with cooking spray and air fry pineapple for 6-8 minutes.

Step 4: Step 04

Flip the pieces and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes until caramelized.

Step 5: Step 05

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, serve with ice cream or whipped cream.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Air Fryer Pineapple, ensure it has completely cooled down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Place any leftover caramelized pineapple pieces along with any juices in the container, making sure to seal it tightly to maintain freshness. Store the container in the refrigerator, where the caramelized pineapple can be kept for up to 2-3 days.

If you plan to enjoy the Air Fryer Pineapple at a later time, consider freezing it for longer-term storage. Place the cooled pineapple pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the pineapple pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen caramelized pineapple can be stored for up to 2-3 months and makes for a delightful frozen treat or a quick addition to smoothies and desserts.

Remember to thaw the frozen Air Fryer Pineapple in the refrigerator before reheating or serving. Whether stored in the fridge or freezer, the delicious caramelized flavor and golden edges of the pineapple will still be a delightful treat when enjoyed later.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can easily substitute it with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar for a different flavor profile. These sweeteners will also caramelize nicely in the air fryer, adding a delicious glaze to the pineapple.

If you’re looking to switch up the seasoning, you can replace the ground cinnamon with ground nutmeg or a pinch of ground ginger for a spicier kick. These spices will still enhance the flavor of the pineapple and add a warm, aromatic element to the dish.

For a healthier twist, you can omit the sugar altogether and drizzle the pineapple with a squeeze of fresh lime juice before air frying. The acidity of the lime will bring out the natural sweetness of the pineapple while adding a refreshing tangy note to the finished dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try layering the caramelized air fryer pineapple over a creamy coconut or vanilla bean panna cotta for a tropical twist on a classic dessert. The contrast of the warm, caramelized pineapple with the cool, silky panna cotta creates a delightful flavor and texture combination that will impress your guests.

Another idea is to use the caramelized air fryer pineapple as a topping for homemade Hawaiian pizza. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on your pizza dough, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese, add slices of Canadian bacon or ham, and then scatter the caramelized pineapple on top. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown for a sweet and savory pizza that will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.

FAQs for Crispy Air Fryer Pineapple Spears

Can I use other types of sugar instead of light brown sugar?

Absolutely! You can substitute light brown sugar with coconut sugar, white sugar, or even honey for a different flavor profile in your air fryer pineapple.

How can I ensure my air fryer pineapple gets that perfect caramelization?

For optimal caramelization, make sure to pat the pineapple pieces dry before coating them with sugar and cinnamon. Additionally, flipping the pineapple halfway through cooking ensures even caramelization on all sides.

What is the best way to serve air fryer pineapple?

Air fryer pineapple can be served in various ways. Enjoy it as a standalone dessert, over vanilla ice cream, as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, or even as a side dish to grilled meats. The caramelized sweetness pairs well with a variety of flavors.

Can I store any leftover air fryer pineapple?

Absolutely! If you have any leftovers, allow the air fryer pineapple to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can enjoy it cold or gently reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to revive the caramelization.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed trying out this Air Fryer Pineapple recipe as much as I did creating it. The combination of caramelized brown sugar, fragrant cinnamon, and juicy pineapple in the air fryer is truly a game-changer. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a taste of the tropics right in your own kitchen.

Remember, with just a few simple ingredients and a trusty air fryer, you can whip up a delicious dessert or snack in no time. The next time you’re craving something sweet and satisfying, give this Air Fryer Pineapple recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you for it!