Air Fryer Pineapple (Like Brazilian Grilled Pineapple)

I bring tropical sweetness to life with juicy pineapple wedges caramelized in the air fryer—mirroring the smoky, grilled flavor of Brazilian-style pineapple, but without firing up an outdoor grill. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for dessert or a flavorful side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how just a few ingredients transform fresh pineapple into a caramel-crisp treat that’s sweet, tender, and slightly charred. It’s an effortless way to elevate any meal or create a healthy dessert that feels indulgent—ready in under 25 minutes from prep to plate.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh pineapple, cubed or cut into wedges

• Light brown sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Nutmeg

• Melted butter

directions

1. I preheat the air fryer to 400 °F (200 °C).

2. In a bowl, I toss pineapple pieces with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well coated.

3. I arrange the pineapple in a single layer in the basket—avoiding crowding.

4. I cook them for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and lightly charred.

5. I serve it immediately while warm—alone, with ice cream, or alongside savory dishes.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Makes about 4 servings

• Prep time: ~15 minutes

• Cook time: ~10 minutes

• Total time: ~25 minutes

Variations

• I swap brown sugar for maple syrup or honey when I want a different sweetness profile.

• I skip the butter or use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.

• I add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a spicy-sweet kick.

• I vary the cut—cubes, slices, or rings—and adjust cook time slightly.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When I want to reheat, I do it gently in the microwave for about 30 seconds or pop it in the air fryer at 350 °F for 2–3 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen pineapple?

Yes, I’ve used both. Canned pineapple is softer and cooks faster, while frozen may need a couple extra minutes in the air fryer.

Can I bake it instead of using an air fryer?

Absolutely. I bake it at 400 °F for 10–15 minutes until caramelized.

Is cooked pineapple still nutritious?

Yes. It still provides plenty of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, even after cooking.

What should I serve it with?

I love pairing it with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or as a topping for oatmeal, pancakes, waffles—or even alongside grilled meats and fresh salads.

How do I prevent it from sticking?

I spray the air fryer basket lightly with non-stick spray or line it with parchment. Flipping the pineapple halfway also helps.

Conclusion

I hope this easy, vibrant Air Fryer Pineapple adds a bright splash of flavor and color to your table. It’s a foolproof treat that’s as versatile as it is delicious—whether I’m craving a healthy dessert, a fun snack, or a unique side. I enjoy the sweet char of caramelized pineapple without breaking a sweat.