Homemade Candied Pineapple: Easy Recipe for Sweet Treats

Indulge in the tropical flavors of homemade Candied Pineapple with this delightful recipe. Transforming simple canned pineapple rings into sparkling, chewy sweet treats is a labor of love that rewards you with something truly special. The process may take some time, but the end result is well worth the wait.

Using just three basic ingredients, you can create these delicious candied pineapple rings that are perfect for snacking, baking, or adding a touch of sweetness to your morning oatmeal. The combination of pineapple, sugar, and corn syrup results in beautifully glazed pieces that not only look like stained glass but also taste heavenly.

Whether you choose to enjoy them as standalone treats, incorporate them into your baking, or use them to elevate your breakfast, these candied pineapple rings are sure to impress. The aroma that fills your kitchen as you make them is a delightful bonus, adding to the joy of creating these gem-like delicacies. Treat yourself to a taste of the tropics with these homemade Candied Pineapple rings!

Quick Benefits

• Creates beautiful jewel-like pieces with a chewy-sweet tropical taste
• Made with only three simple ingredients, no preservatives or artificial additives
• Versatile for snacking, baking, or adding to oatmeal
• Perfect for special treats and cake decorating, adds a lovely shine to the finished pieces

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Candied Pineapple: Easy Recipe for Sweet Treats Recipe

• Homemade Delight: Making candied pineapple at home transforms a simple canned fruit into a beautiful, jewel-like treat that is far superior to store-bought versions.
• Tropical Aroma: The process of candying pineapple fills your kitchen with a delightful tropical fragrance that enhances the cooking experience.
• Versatile Use: These candied pineapple rings can be enjoyed on their own as a sweet snack, used for cake decorating, added to oatmeal, or chopped up for trail mix.
• Simple Ingredients: With just three basic ingredients – canned pineapple, sugar, and corn syrup – you can create a delicious and preservative-free treat.
• Beautiful Presentation: The finished candied pineapple rings have a shiny, sparkly look that resembles stained glass, making them visually appealing for serving and gifting.
• Perfectly Sweet: The combination of the heavy syrup from the canned pineapple, sugar, and corn syrup creates a delightful sweetness that is balanced and satisfying.
• Long-Lasting Enjoyment: Store these candied pineapple pieces in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer periods, ensuring you have a delightful treat on hand whenever you need it.

Ingredients for Homemade Candied Pineapple: Easy Recipe for Sweet Treats

• 3 cups sugar, divided.
• 2 20-ounce cans pineapple rounds in heavy syrup.
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup.

Pro Tips for Homemade Candied Pineapple: Easy Recipe for Sweet Treats

Pro Tip 1: For the best results, use canned pineapple rings in heavy syrup to ensure consistent and delicious candied pineapple. The heavy syrup not only helps with the preservation of the fruit but also adds a delightful sweetness to the final product.

Pro Tip 2: To speed up the drying process, especially in humid climates, opt for drying the candied pineapple in a low oven instead of air drying. This method will help prevent stickiness and ensure a perfect texture. Once dried, rolling the pieces in sugar before serving adds an extra touch of sweetness and aesthetic appeal.

Pro Tip 3: Don’t discard the leftover syrup from candying the pineapple. This flavorful syrup can be used in various ways, such as drizzling over pancakes or incorporating into drinks for an added tropical twist. Store your candied pineapple in an airtight container to maintain freshness, and get creative with how you enjoy it – whether in trail mix, parfaits, or as a topping for ice cream.

How to Make Homemade Candied Pineapple: Easy Recipe for Sweet Treats

Step 1: Step 01

Drain pineapple, then measure 1 1/2 cups of juice, adjusting with water if necessary.

Step 2: Step 02

Combine juice, 2 1/2 cups sugar, and corn syrup in a skillet. Heat until sugar is dissolved and boil for 4 minutes.

Step 3: Step 03

Arrange pineapple rings in a single layer. Cook on low heat for 45 minutes, flipping frequently, until translucent.

Step 4: Step 04

Place the rings on a drying rack. Allow them to air dry overnight or bake in a 200°F oven for 30 minutes until no longer sticky.

Step 5: Step 05

Before serving, coat the cooled rings with the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar.

Storage Tips

Once you have finished making candied pineapple, ensure they are completely dried before storing them. If you live in a humid area, it is recommended to dry them in a low oven rather than air drying for better results. Once dried, store the candied pineapple in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming sticky.

To extend the shelf life of your candied pineapple, you can also refrigerate them. Simply place them in an airtight container or a resealable bag before storing them in the refrigerator. This will help preserve their texture and flavor for a longer period. Before serving, you can roll the pieces in fresh sugar to enhance their appearance and add an extra touch of sweetness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make a healthier version of this candied pineapple recipe, you can try using fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple in heavy syrup. Simply cut the fresh pineapple into rings or chunks and proceed with the recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as fresh pineapple may require less time to cook and candy.

For a vegan version of this recipe, you can substitute the light corn syrup with agave nectar or maple syrup. These alternatives will provide a similar sticky sweetness and help coat the pineapple rings for that beautiful shine. Remember to adjust the amount of agave nectar or maple syrup based on your sweetness preference.

Serving Suggestions

Transform your candied pineapple into a stunning dessert by arranging the jewel-like pieces on top of a homemade coconut cake. The sparkling, sweet rings will add a tropical flair and beautiful decoration to your creation. The candied pineapple can also be used to garnish cocktails for a touch of sweetness and a visually appealing finish.

For a delightful breakfast treat, serve the candied pineapple on a platter alongside a spread of assorted cheeses and crackers. The chewy, sweet rings will provide a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the salty cheese and crisp crackers. This elegant and simple presentation is ideal for brunch gatherings or as a light and refreshing snack option.

FAQs for Homemade Candied Pineapple: Easy Recipe for Sweet Treats

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for this recipe?

While you can use fresh pineapple, canned pineapple in heavy syrup is recommended for the most consistent results in making candied pineapple.

How long does it take to make candied pineapple?

Making candied pineapple takes about 9 hours, but most of the time is spent on drying. The actual cooking process typically takes around 45 minutes.

Can I substitute the corn syrup with another sweetener?

In this recipe, corn syrup is used to ensure even coating and give the finished pieces a beautiful shine. While you can experiment with other sweeteners, corn syrup is recommended for the best results.

How should I store the candied pineapple to keep it fresh?

Store the candied pineapple in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, the leftover syrup can be saved and used in drinks or over pancakes for added flavor.

Conclusion

After the patience and effort you put into making this Candied Pineapple recipe, the results are truly worth it. The beautiful jewel-like pieces will not only elevate your baked goods but make for a delightful tropical snack. The process may take some time, but the sweet and chewy pineapple rings are a labor of love that you can enjoy in various ways.

Whether you’re snacking on them, incorporating them into your cooking, or simply indulging in their sweet goodness, these Candied Pineapple pieces are versatile and a wonderful addition to your pantry. The way they sparkle and shine, turning a simple canned fruit into something so special, is a testament to the magic of homemade treats. So don’t hesitate to make a batch of Candied Pineapple and enjoy the fruits of your labor in every bite.