Easy Air Fryer Pineapple 🍍

Caramelized, Sweet, and Irresistibly Juicy!

When you’re craving something warm, tropical, and just sweet enough, this Easy Air Fryer Pineapple will steal the show. With golden edges, a buttery brown sugar glaze, and hints of cinnamon, this recipe transforms simple pineapple into a gourmet treat in minutes.

Whether you serve it as a side, snack, or dessert, it’s quick, healthy-ish, and bursting with flavor—and thanks to the air fryer, there’s no need to turn on your oven.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ Ready in under 15 minutes
• ✅ Naturally sweet with minimal sugar added
• ✅ Kid-friendly and adult-approved
• ✅ Perfect for topping breakfast, dessert, or even grilled dishes
• ✅ No grill or oven needed—just your air fryer!

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What Does Air Fryer Pineapple Taste Like?

Air frying pineapple intensifies its natural sugars and juices, creating crisp edges, a warm caramelized center, and a flavor that dances between tangy and sweet. When tossed in a buttery brown sugar glaze, it’s reminiscent of grilled pineapple but even softer and more aromatic.

Think: the tropical version of baked apples—but quicker and juicier.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down this easy recipe:

🍍 Pineapple (1 whole)

Fresh pineapple works best for this recipe—juicy, firm, and naturally sweet. You’ll wash, peel, core, and slice it into wedges or bite-sized chunks for even cooking.

Shortcut: Canned or pre-cut pineapple chunks can be used, but fresh pineapple caramelizes better and holds its shape.

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🧈 Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp, melted)

Butter adds richness and helps the glaze stick. You can substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter if needed.

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🍯 Brown Sugar (2 tbsp)

Provides that deep, molasses-style sweetness that complements the pineapple’s tartness.

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🌰 Ground Cinnamon (½ tsp)

Adds warmth and aroma. A must-have for bringing dessert vibes!

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🧂 Pinch of Salt (Optional)

A tiny pinch helps intensify the sweetness and balance the flavors. Totally optional—but recommended if you love that sweet-salty contrast.

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How to Make Air Fryer Pineapple

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to the best tropical treat:

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1. Prep the Pineapple

• Wash, peel, and core your pineapple.
• Slice into ¼-inch thick rings or wedges.
• Cut into bite-sized chunks or keep the wedges whole for a fancier look.

Pro Tip: Keep slices uniform for even air frying.

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2. Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, combine:

• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• A pinch of salt (optional)

Whisk until smooth.

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3. Coat the Pineapple

Place the pineapple pieces in a bowl and toss with the glaze until evenly coated. Every piece should shimmer with buttery goodness.

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4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and let it heat for 2–3 minutes. This ensures a nice sizzle when the pineapple hits the basket.

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5. Air Fry

• Arrange pineapple in a single layer in the basket—avoid overlapping.
• Air fry for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

You’ll know they’re done when the edges start to brown and caramelize.

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6. Serve Warm

Serve immediately while the pineapple is still warm, soft, and slightly crisp. Top it off or eat it plain—it’s a treat either way.

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Serving Suggestions

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here’s how to elevate your air-fried pineapple:

🍨 As Dessert:

• Top with vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream
• Drizzle with honey, maple syrup, or caramel
• Sprinkle with chopped nuts or toasted coconut flakes

🍽 As a Side Dish:

• Serve with grilled chicken, pork, or salmon
• Pair with rice and teriyaki vegetables
• Add to tacos for a sweet tropical twist

🍳 At Breakfast:

• Mix into oatmeal or yogurt bowls
• Layer into pancakes or waffles
• Add to smoothies or smoothie bowls

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Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming instead of crisping.
• Use parchment liners (air fryer safe) for easier cleanup.
• Want extra caramelization? Sprinkle a bit more brown sugar halfway through cooking.
• For spice lovers: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a spicy-sweet combo.

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes or microwave briefly.
• Freezing not recommended: The texture becomes mushy after thawing.

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Great for…

• Weeknight desserts
• Summer cookouts
• BBQ sides
• Kids’ snacks
• Brunch buffets
• Guilt-free indulgence

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