Sweet Air Fryer Pineapple Dessert

Air fried pineapple transforms into sweet, caramel-kissed perfection without ever touching a grill. The first time I made this, my kitchen filled with a mouthwatering aroma that drew everyone in asking what smelled so amazing. This ridiculously simple treat needs just 4 basic ingredients and less than 20 minutes from start to finish. Serve it alongside your main dish or enjoy it as a healthier dessert option that still feels indulgent.

I stumbled on this recipe when looking for a quick dessert during a dinner party last summer. My grill was already occupied with the main course, so I tossed some pineapple in the air fryer as an experiment. My guests practically fought over the last pieces, and now I make a double batch whenever we have company – it disappears that quickly!

Simple Elements

• Fresh pineapple: Don't even think about using canned here – fresh is essential for that perfect caramelization. Look for one that smells sweet at the stem end and has slightly yielding flesh when pressed.
• Pure maple syrup: The real stuff creates that beautiful sticky glaze. I've tried honey as a substitute which works in a pinch, but maple syrup delivers that deeper, more complex sweetness.
• Butter: Technically optional but adds richness that takes this from good to unforgettable. Use salted or unsalted according to your preference – both work beautifully.
• Ground cinnamon: Just a touch enhances the natural sweetness without overwhelming. If you're not a cinnamon fan, feel free to skip it or substitute cardamom for a different flavor profile.

Pin it

Creating Magic

Prep Your Pineapple

Start by peeling your pineapple completely, making sure to remove all the little "eyes." Cut out the tough core, then slice into rings or half-moons about half an inch thick. Too thin and they'll fall apart; too thick and they won't caramelize properly. Place your sliced pineapple in a mixing bowl and set aside.

Mix Your Glaze

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Give it a quick stir to blend everything together. This simple mixture creates the magic that transforms ordinary pineapple into something extraordinary. Pour this glaze over your sliced pineapple.

Coat and Arrange

Gently toss the pineapple pieces to ensure every slice gets evenly coated with the glaze. Be careful not to break the slices – I use my hands for this step. Then carefully arrange the pieces in a single layer in your air fryer basket. A bit of overlap is okay, but don't pile them on top of each other.

Air Fry to Perfection

Cook at 380°F for about 12-15 minutes total, flipping each piece halfway through. Start checking around the 10-minute mark since air fryers can vary. You're looking for pieces that have turned golden brown with slightly caramelized edges. That's where all the flavor lives!

My grandmother used to make grilled pineapple every summer when we visited her in Florida. She claimed it was her "secret recipe" though I later discovered it was just butter and brown sugar! This air fryer version reminds me of those warm evenings on her patio, but I love that I can make it year-round now, even during our brutal Midwest winters when grilling isn't an option.

Perfectly Paired

This caramelized pineapple makes an incredible side dish alongside spicy foods – the natural sweetness balances heat beautifully. Try serving it with jerk chicken or spicy shrimp tacos for a tropical-inspired meal. For dessert, nothing beats warm pineapple topped with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream. The contrast between hot and cold creates an almost magical eating experience.

Flavor Adventures

Want to take this simple recipe in different directions? Replace the cinnamon with a pinch of chili powder for a sweet-heat combo that's absolutely addictive. Add a splash of dark rum to the glaze mixture for a more complex, adult version (the alcohol cooks off). For special occasions, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the warm pineapple just before serving for added texture and tropical flavor.

Keeping Fresh

In the rare instance that you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Cold leftover pieces are surprisingly delicious chopped up and added to morning yogurt or oatmeal. If you want to reheat them, pop them back in the air fryer for just 1-2 minutes – they heat up incredibly quickly and can burn if left too long.

Pin it

Kitchen Wisdom

• Use a kitchen towel under your cutting board when slicing pineapple to catch the juice and prevent slipping
• Don't dump the glazed pineapple into your fryer basket – place pieces individually to preserve their shape
• Let the pineapple cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to set up slightly

I've tried countless pineapple recipes over the years – grilled, roasted, sautéed – but this air fryer method has become my go-to for its perfect balance of convenience and flavor. There's something almost magical about how the high heat transforms the fruit, concentrating its natural sweetness while adding those irresistible caramelized notes. Whether served alongside a tropical-inspired dinner or enjoyed as a guilt-free dessert, this simple recipe proves that sometimes the most basic preparations yield the most spectacular results.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use canned pineapple?

Fresh works best, but drained canned pineapple rings can work with shorter cooking time.

→ Is the butter necessary?

It's optional - you can omit for a completely vegan version.

→ How do I know when it's done?

Pineapple should have visible caramelization and slightly browned edges.

→ What can I serve this with?

Enjoy as dessert with vanilla ice cream or as a side with grilled protein.

→ How long do leftovers keep?

Store in refrigerator for 2-3 days in sealed container.