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image of top down mise en place shot fresh pineapple brown sugar cinnamon butter maple syrup vanilla extract arranged white marble kitchen counter healthy clear glass bowls rustic brown wooden kitchen sets soft diffuse daylight
katya bou

Air Fryer Caramelized Pineapple

Discover the magic of caramelized pineapple made effortlessly in your air fryer. This quick tropical treat delivers a warm, gooey dessert with a perfect, crispy-edged caramelization in just minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Tropical
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pineapple
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar dark preferred for deeper flavor
  • 1 tbsp Butter melted, unsalted; use vegan butter or oil for dairy-free
  • 1/2 tsp Cinnamon ground
Optional Drizzle
  • 1 tsp Maple Syrup for extra depth, optional

Equipment

  • Air Fryer,
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife

Method
 

Prep the Pineapple
  1. Prepare the fresh pineapple by peeling, coring, and slicing it into 1/2-inch thick rings or large chunks for even cooking.
Create the Caramel Coating
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined and fragrant.
Coat the Pineapple
  1. Add the pineapple pieces to the bowl and toss gently to coat every surface thoroughly with the sugar mixture.
Preheat and Arrange
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Arrange the coated pineapple in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
Air Fry and Serve
  1. Air fry for 4 minutes, then flip or toss the pineapple pieces.
  2. Continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes, until the edges are golden brown, sticky, and caramelized.
  3. Remove carefully and serve immediately while warm for the best gooey caramel texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 2gFat: 5g

Notes

For a savory twist, skip the cinnamon and add a pinch of cayenne and lime juice. Use drained canned pineapple if fresh isn't available, but reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to maintain crispness. Drying excess moisture on the pineapple prevents steaming instead of caramelizing.
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