These Caramelized Pineapple Rings are a sweet, juicy, and perfectly golden treat. Air-fried to caramelized perfection, the pineapple rings absorb the flavors of honey, cinnamon, and brown sugar, resulting in a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The slight char from the air fryer gives them a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft and tender. Whether served as a side dish, dessert, or snack, these caramelized pineapple rings are a tropical delight for any occasion.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings (about 6 rings)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp melted butter (optional)
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Prep the Pineapple: Peel, core, and slice the pineapple into approximately ½ inch thick rings.
- Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), brown sugar, cinnamon, melted butter (if using), and a pinch of salt. This will create the glaze.
- Coat the Pineapple: Brush both sides of each pineapple ring with the glaze mixture, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Air-Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (190°C). Arrange the pineapple rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air-fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and caramelized. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove the caramelized pineapple rings from the air fryer and serve warm. Optionally, sprinkle with additional cinnamon or a drizzle of honey before serving.
Time:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: 18–20 minutes
Serves:
- Serves 2–4 people (depending on serving size)
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 130–150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35–40g
- Protein: 0–1g
- Fat: 1–2g (with butter)
- Fiber: 2–3g
- Sugar: 25–28g
- Sodium: 10–20mg (without added salt)
Note: Nutritional values will vary based on the amount of honey/maple syrup and butter used.
Key Notes:
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey and sugar depending on your desired level of sweetness.
- Optional Toppings: These pineapple rings are delicious on their own, but they can also be topped with a sprinkle of shredded coconut, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
- Storage: Leftover caramelized pineapple rings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1–2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to restore their texture.
Enjoy these Caramelized Pineapple Rings as a refreshing and sweet addition to your meals or as a standalone snack!