Sweet Air Fryer Pineapple

Pineapple turns lusciously sweet and caramel-touched when you cook it in the air fryer—no grill needed. The very first time I whipped this up, the smell had the whole house asking what was going on in the kitchen. This easy treat comes together with just 4 simple things and you’ll go from start to munching in under 20 minutes. Dish it out next to your favorite meal or serve it up as a “healthier” sweet that still tastes special.

This all started when I needed a speedy sweet for dinner guests last summer. The grill was busy and I just tossed some pineapple into the air fryer to see what would happen. Guests went wild for the last bites, so now I always make extra if we’ve got people over—it’s gone in a flash!

Effortless Ingredients

• Fresh pineapple: Canned stuff just won’t cut it—you want fresh for that perfect caramel crunch. Give it a sniff at the stem; if it smells sweet and has a little give when you push on it, you’re set.
• Maple syrup: Go for the pure kind for the thick, sticky glaze. Honey can step in if you must, but it’s not as rich or deep as maple syrup.
• Butter: Toss it in for a richer taste—either salted or unsalted is fine, whatever’s in the fridge. You could leave it out, but honestly, it makes such a difference.
• Ground cinnamon: A small sprinkle really brightens the pineapple’s sweetness. Not a cinnamon lover? Skip it or swap in cardamom for a new twist.

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Magical Process

Pineapple Prep

Peel off all the pineapple’s skin and make sure no “eyes” are left. Slice off the tough core. Then cut into half-moons or rings that are about half an inch thick. Too chunky and they won’t brown; too thin and they’ll break apart. Place all slices into a mixing bowl and hold tight for the next step.

Glaze Making Time

Melt your butter, mix it together in a small bowl with maple syrup and cinnamon, and stir it up well. You’re after a glossy even mixture. Pour it all over your pineapple slices.

Getting Ready to Cook

Use your hands and gently toss everything so each piece gets a shiny coat of glaze. Try not to break up the slices. Neatly lay the glazed pineapple in your air fryer basket—just one layer is best. A bit of touching here and there is no big deal, just don’t crowd things.

Air Fryer Time

Set your air fryer to 380°F. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes total, making sure to flip them over halfway through. Check them early—around 10 minutes—since all air fryers are a little different. You want golden brown pineapples with toasty edges. That’s where all the flavor hides!

Every summer in Florida, my grandma would grill pineapple for us and call it her “secret thing.” Turns out it was just butter and brown sugar! This air fryer trick takes me back to those laid-back nights in her backyard, but now I can whip it up even when it’s freezing out up here in the Midwest.

Amazing Combos

This sweet pineapple goes great next to spicy treats—the sugar balances the kick so well. Give it a try with spicy tacos or jerk chicken for a full-on tropical vibe. Want dessert? Warm pineapple with a scoop of vanilla or a spoonful of coconut cream on top is the best—it’s the hot-and-cold combo for me every time.

Tasty Twists

Ready for new takes? Trade cinnamon for a pinch of chili powder—it’s a sweet and spicy dream. Add a splash of dark rum to the glaze for grown-ups—the booze cooks off. Feeling fancy? Sprinkle toasted coconut on top just before serving for extra crunch and island feels.

Staying Power

If you have leftovers (rare, but possible), stash them in an airtight container in the fridge for a couple of days. Cold pineapple is awesome chopped into oatmeal or yogurt the next morning. Want it warm again? Pop it back in the air fryer for a minute or two. They’re quick to reheat, so don’t walk away or they might burn!

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Smart Moves

• Stick a kitchen towel under your board so juices don’t run wild while you slice
• Skip dumping the pineapple into the air fryer—set the pieces in by hand to keep them pretty
• Give the cooked pineapple about five minutes to cool down before eating so the glaze hangs on

I’ve made pineapple every way—grilled, in the oven, on the stove—but nothing beats the air fryer for keeping it fast and getting those awesome caramel edges. The blast of heat really brings out all its goodness and you get that deep, sweet flavor. It’s perfect with dinner or when you want a guilt-free treat. Sometimes simple is just the best way.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use canned pineapple?

Fresh is better, but canned rings work too if you reduce cook time.

→ Is butter a must?

Nope, leave it out for a vegan option.

→ How do I know it’s ready?

Look for golden edges and a caramelized finish.

→ What should I pair it with?

Serve as a dessert with ice cream or alongside grilled mains.

→ How long do extras last?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.