
Sweet, slightly charred pineapple caramelized in the air fryer — a fast, tropical finish for ice cream, pancakes, or as a bright side.

In my kitchen this recipe has been a game changer. My sister requested it at a family brunch and it disappeared in minutes. I love that it transforms ordinary fruit into something celebratory, and that small tweaks in sugar or cook time let me control the level of caramelization. It is simple enough for a weekday but pretty enough for guests.
My favorite thing about this preparation is the way the air fryer mimics a quick char from a hot grill, without flame or fuss. At a recent summer brunch I used these pineapple rings on pancakes topped with coconut whipped cream and everyone asked for the recipe. The caramelization intensifies the fruity aroma and creates small pockets of syrup that pair beautifully with cool, creamy accompaniments.
Store cooled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The syrupy juices will concentrate, so keep a shallow layer to prevent pieces from sticking together. To freeze, arrange single-layer portions on a parchment-lined tray and flash-freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes or microwave for 30 to 45 seconds until warm; avoid prolonged high heat which can make the fruit mushy.
If you do not have light brown sugar, use granulated sugar plus a teaspoon of molasses or use coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor. Swap cinnamon for ground cardamom or a pinch of ground ginger for a different aromatic profile. For a saucier finish, toss the pineapple with a tablespoon of melted butter or coconut oil before air frying; this will enhance browning and mouthfeel. Keep in mind that pineapple’s acidity can react with some metals, so use nonreactive bowls for marinating.
Serve warm on vanilla ice cream with a sprinkle of toasted coconut and chopped macadamia nuts for a tropical sundae. For brunch, layer the pineapple over pancakes or waffles with whipped cream and a squeeze of lime. For savory pairings, use slices on top of grilled pork chops, chicken skewers, or tuck cubes into tacos with cilantro and a drizzle of crema. Garnish with fresh mint or lime zest to brighten the plate.
Pineapple has long been a symbol of hospitality and a staple in tropical cuisines from the Pacific Islands to the Caribbean. Caramelized fruit is a familiar technique across cultures — think of grilled fruit in Latin American churrasco or broiled pineapple in Hawaiian luaus. Using an air fryer is a modern adaptation that achieves similar caramelization to high-heat grilling or broiling but in a compact countertop appliance. The combination of cinnamon and brown sugar echoes classic spice blends used in many tropical desserts.
In summer, serve this with fresh berries and chilled coconut cream for a light dessert. In cooler months, add a splash of aged rum or dark rum extract into the sugar mix before tossing for a warm, festive flavor. For holiday brunches, sprinkle with chopped pecans and a drizzle of warmed maple syrup to make it feel cozy. You can also roast pineapple with a dusting of pumpkin spice in the fall for a seasonal twist.
Prep pineapple ahead by cutting and storing unseasoned pieces in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to serve, toss with the sugar-cinnamon mix and air fry for a quick finish. Portion cooked pineapple into single-serve containers for grab-and-go breakfasts or desserts: reheat briefly in the air fryer or microwave. Keep sauces and toppings separate until ready to serve to preserve texture and freshness.
Final thought: this air fryer caramelized pineapple is proof that a few pantry staples and a hot basket can turn ordinary fruit into something memorable. Share it warm, get creative with pairings, and consider it a reliable trick for brightening many meals. Enjoy the sweet, smoky aroma and the burst of tropical flavor it brings to your table.
Cut pineapple into uniform pieces so they caramelize evenly and finish at the same time.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer. Leave space around each piece to allow hot air circulation for proper browning.
If you want extra glaze, toss warm pineapple with an additional teaspoon of brown sugar immediately after cooking.
This nourishing air fryer caramelized pineapple recipe is sure to be a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every moist, high protein slice — it is perfect for breakfast or as a wholesome snack any time.
This Air Fryer Caramelized Pineapple recipe makes perfectly juicy, tender, and flavorful steak every time! Serve with potatoes and a side salad for an unforgettable dinner in under 30 minutes.

Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes so it reaches temperature and ensures immediate caramelization.
Trim the top and bottom, slice off the skin, core the fruit, and cut into even-sized rings, spears, or 1-inch cubes so pieces cook uniformly.
In a bowl, toss the pineapple pieces with 2 to 4 tablespoons light brown sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon until evenly coated; adjust sugar to taste.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket, arrange pineapple in a single layer with space between pieces, and air fry for 6 to 8 minutes until golden on the bottom.
Carefully flip each piece with tongs and air fry an additional 6 to 8 minutes, watching for deep golden spots; total time 12 to 16 minutes depending on size.
Allow pineapple to cool until warm, about 5 minutes. Serve over ice cream, pancakes, or as a side. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Sweet, slightly charred pineapple caramelized in the air fryer — a fast, tropical finish for ice cream, pancakes, or as a bright side.

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This recipe looks amazing! Can't wait to try it.
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