This air fryer grilled pineapple is a fun and tasty treat! The heat brings out the natural sweetness and makes the edges caramelized and crispy. Yum!
I love to serve it as a juicy dessert or on top of yogurt. It’s so simple to make, and who doesn’t love a little tropical flair in their day? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Pineapple: The star of this recipe! Look for ripe pineapples with a sweet fragrance. If fresh is hard to find, canned pineapple can work, but ensure you use chunks in juice, not syrup to keep it healthier.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds moisture and a rich flavor due to its molasses content. If you’re out, white sugar or coconut sugar can be used instead, just know it won’t have the same depth.
Cinnamon: This spice really enhances the sweetness of the pineapple. If you’re not a fan, try using nutmeg or even a dash of vanilla extract for an interesting twist.
Melted Butter or Coconut Oil: Both of these fats help in browning and add flavor. I love using coconut oil for a light tropical taste. If you’re avoiding dairy, stick with coconut oil or even a non-dairy buttery spread.
Shredded Coconut or Chopped Nuts: These make a lovely garnish! You can use sliced almonds or walnuts for nuts. If you’re watching your sugar, feel free to skip the garnish altogether.
How Do I Get the Pineapple Perfectly Grilled in the Air Fryer?
Getting that perfect golden brown and slightly caramelized finish is all about proper marination and air frying techniques. Here’s how to ensure your pineapple comes out deliciously:
- Marinate Well: Make sure the pineapple chunks are thoroughly coated with the marinade. Letting it sit for a few minutes enhances the flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Place the pineapple in a single layer in the air fryer. This allows hot air to circulate and cook everything evenly.
- Shaking the Basket: Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps in getting all sides caramelized.
- Keep an Eye: Cooking times can vary slightly with different air fryers. Check early to avoid burning, as you want that perfect golden hue!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: shredded coconut or chopped nuts for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely grilled pineapple takes about 5 minutes for prep and another 10-12 minutes in the air fryer. So, you’ll have it ready in about 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick and tasty treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Let it heat up for about 5 minutes while you prepare the pineapple marinade. This will help to get that delicious grilled taste!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted butter (or coconut oil), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s nicely blended into a marinade that will add sweetness to your pineapple.
3. Prepare the Pineapple:
Now, add the pineapple chunks into the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently until all the pieces are evenly coated with the sweet mixture. This will help enhance the flavors while grilling!
4. Air Fry the Pineapple:
Carefully place the marinated pineapple chunks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them. It’s best to give them a bit of space for even cooking!
5. Cook Until Golden:
Air fry the pineapple for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to ensure all sides get that lovely golden brown color. You want them to be slightly caramelized and delicious!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the pineapple from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute. This is important to avoid burns! Serve warm, and if you like, sprinkle some shredded coconut or chopped nuts on top for an extra touch. Enjoy your fresh and tasty air fryer grilled pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Since canned pineapple is already softer, reduce the air frying time to about 6-8 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use granulated sugar as a substitute. For a little extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey to mimic that molasses taste. Just keep in mind this might slightly alter the texture of the marinade.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave briefly to warm it up before serving again!
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Marinade?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding a splash of vanilla extract, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or even a hint of chili powder for a spicy kick. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on your additional flavors to keep it balanced!
