Sweet and juicy grilled pineapple made right in your air fryer is a treat you can’t resist! The caramelized edges add a fun twist to this simple dessert or snack.
I’ll admit, I often toss some cinnamon on top for an extra touch! It’s quick to make and perfect for those summer vibes any time of year. You’ll love how easy this is!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is the star here. Look for one with a sweet smell and some yellow skin. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple, but drain the syrup and reduce the cooking time a bit.
Brown Sugar: This contributes to caramelization and adds a rich flavor. You can substitute with coconut sugar or white sugar, but brown sugar gives that extra depth. My personal favorite is light brown sugar for its subtle molasses flavor.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon provides warmth and spice. If you’re not a fan, you could use nutmeg or even ginger for a different twist. Just a pinch can change the flavor profile significantly!
Butter: This adds richness and helps with caramelization. If you want a healthier option, you can skip it completely or use coconut oil for a tropical vibe.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint is optional, but it adds a refreshing finish. If mint isn’t available, you could use basil for a unique flavor or skip it altogether!
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Pineapple in an Air Fryer?
Grilling pineapple in an air fryer might seem easy, but there are some key tips to make it perfect. The goal is to achieve that sweet caramelization while keeping the fruit juicy.
- Preheat the air fryer well. This step is crucial for even cooking!
- Cut the pineapple into uniform chunks. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; allow space for air to circulate. Cook in batches if needed.
- Shaking the basket halfway ensures every side of the pineapple gets that grilled flavor. Keep an eye on it, as cooking times may vary!
- Let it cool slightly before serving so the flavor settles in. Enjoy warm for the best experience!
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple recipe takes about 5 minutes for prep and 10-12 minutes for cooking, totaling around 15-17 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious treat that can be served warm in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This helps get the pineapple grilled to perfection later on!
2. Prepare the Pineapple Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, take your pineapple chunks and add in the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted butter (if you want a richer flavor), and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together gently until the pineapple pieces are nicely coated in the sweet mixture.
3. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Carefully place the coated pineapple chunks in the basket of the air fryer. Make sure to lay them in a single layer without overcrowding, so they can grill evenly!
4. Air Fry the Pineapple:
Set the air fryer to cook for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to help the grill marks and caramelization develop on all sides. Your pineapple will be golden and delicious when it’s done!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pineapple is finished, carefully remove it from the air fryer and place it on a serving plate. If you like, you can garnish it with some fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness! Enjoy your grilled pineapple warm as a delightful dessert or as a sweet topping for ice cream, yogurt, or even grilled meats!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but make sure to drain it well and pat it dry. Canned pineapple tends to be softer and may cook faster, so check for doneness around the 8-minute mark to avoid mushiness.
What If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
No problem! You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar mixed with a little bit of molasses, or use honey or maple syrup for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that using a liquid sweetener might require reducing other liquid ingredients slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Butter?
Absolutely! The melted butter adds richness, but it’s not essential. You can omit it entirely or substitute it with a little coconut oil for a tropical twist. The brown sugar and cinnamon will still create a delicious coating on the pineapple!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it briefly in the microwave or air fryer to bring back some warmth and texture!
