Air Fryer Caramelized Pineapple: Quick Summer Sweetness (Print Version)

Make sweet Air Fryer Caramelized Pineapple! A simple summer dessert, perfect for a quick treat. My go-to for a warm, fruity delight.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian

# Ingredients:

→ Fresh Pineapple Fun

01 - 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch thick wedges or chunks
02 - 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed

→ Flavor Boosters

03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
04 - ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)

→ Optional Drizzles & Toppings

06 - Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
07 - Toasted coconut flakes
08 - Vanilla bean ice cream or Greek yogurt

→ Make It Special

09 - A squeeze of fresh lime juice
10 - 1 teaspoon dark rum (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get that pineapple ready. Slice off the top and bottom, then stand it upright and carefully slice off the skin, following the curve of the fruit. Dig out any "eyes" with a small paring knife. Then, quarter the pineapple lengthwise, remove the core, and cut the flesh into ½-inch thick wedges or chunks. I always aim for even pieces so they cook consistently – learned that after some bits were crispy while others were still chewy.
02 - In a medium bowl, melt your unsalted butter. You can do this in the microwave for 30 seconds or so, or in a small saucepan. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract (if you're using it). Whisk it until it’s all combined and forms a thick, fragrant paste. This mixture is what gives our Air Fryer Caramelized Pineapple that gorgeous, sticky coating. It smells so good, I sometimes want to eat it right then!
03 - Add your prepped pineapple pieces to the bowl with the butter-sugar mixture. Toss everything gently with a spatula or your clean hands, making sure every single piece of pineapple is beautifully coated. This step is crucial for that even caramelization we’re aiming for. Don't leave any piece behind – every bit deserves to be delicious!
04 - Lightly grease your air fryer basket or line it with parchment paper (make sure it’s air fryer safe and won’t block airflow). Arrange the coated pineapple pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. This is where I messed up the first time! Overcrowding means steaming, not caramelizing, and we want that golden-brown goodness for our Air Fryer Caramelized Pineapple. You might need to do this in batches.
05 - Cook the pineapple at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through. Keep an eye on it, especially towards the end, as air fryer models can vary. You’re looking for those edges to turn beautifully golden brown and slightly sticky. The smell filling your kitchen will be incredible – sweet, warm, and tropical!
06 - Once your Air Fryer Caramelized Pineapple is perfectly cooked, carefully remove it from the basket. Serve it warm, perhaps with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, some toasted coconut flakes, and definitely a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Honestly, this is the best part! The contrast of warm pineapple and cold ice cream is just *chef's kiss*.

# Notes:

01 - Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket; learned that the hard way with soggy pineapple.
02 - Stores well in the fridge for a few days, but honestly, it's best fresh and warm!
03 - Try maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different, lighter sweetness – it's a good swap if you're out.
04 - A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is non-negotiable for serving, honestly; it completes the experience.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Air fryer
02 - mixing bowl
03 - spatula
04 - paring knife

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 180
Total Fat: 8g
Total Carbohydrate: 28g
Protein: 1g

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