Most pineapples sold in the United States come from Hawaii and Puerto Rico, where the tropical climate makes fresh fruit available year-round.
You can use canned pineapple for easy air fryer pineapple rings, but once you taste fresh grilled pineapple, you’ll notice a big difference. Cooking pineapple in the air fryer intensifies its sweetness and creates a nutty, caramelized flavor that’s irresistible.
Air fryer pineapple works beautifully as a side for pork or chicken and complements many Asian-inspired dishes. It’s also a fantastic dessert: serve warm pineapple with a fruit dip or whipped cream, or pile it on vanilla ice cream or pound cake for an indulgent finish.
This simple recipe brings out the best in pineapple with just a few ingredients and minimal prep. Try it as a dessert or a versatile side that pairs with many meals.
Why Make This Recipe
- Deep flavor – A light char in the air fryer transforms fresh pineapple, enhancing its natural sweetness and adding rich caramel notes.
- Easy – Only three ingredients and about 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Versatile – Serve as a dessert or a savory side to complement a wide range of dishes.
Ingredient Notes
- Pineapple – Fresh is best for flavor and texture; canned drained pineapple can be used in a pinch.
- Honey – Raw or local honey adds a bright sweetness. You can substitute maple syrup, agave, or a little brown sugar.
- Red pepper flakes – Optional, for a spicy contrast. Cayenne powder works too.
Ready to make air fryer pineapple rings? Gather your pineapple, honey, and optional red pepper flakes, and follow the simple steps below.
How To Make Pineapple In The Air Fryer
See the recipe card for full ingredient amounts and nutrition details.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
- Using a sharp knife, remove the skin and core the pineapple. Slice into even wedges, rings, or chunks.
- Brush the pineapple pieces with honey to coat evenly.
- Arrange the pineapple in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook 15–20 minutes, until golden and caramelized. Flip once if needed for even browning.
- Remove and serve warm. Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes if you want a sweet-and-spicy finish.
Pro Tips
- Choose a pineapple with evenly sized “eyes” and a slightly yellow color; avoid overly green or mushy fruit.
- Trim the top and bottom first to stabilize the fruit, then remove the skin.
- Cut pieces to uniform size for consistent cooking and discard the tough core.
- If using canned pineapple, drain thoroughly to avoid extra moisture in the air fryer.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in a single layer so pieces caramelize rather than steam.
- Adjust cooking time based on piece size and your specific air fryer model.
Delicious Variations
- Warm spices – Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves before cooking for a cozy dessert twist.
- Chili-lime – Add chili powder and lime zest for a bright, tangy heat.
- Melted butter – Brush with butter instead of or in addition to honey for deeper browning and a richer flavor.
- Dips – Serve with sweetened Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or sour cream (for spicy pineapple).
Prep And Storage
- Prep ahead – Slice pineapple in advance and store in an airtight container in the fridge for quick cooking later.
- Refrigerate – Leftovers keep up to 5 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze – Cooked pineapple becomes soft when frozen but works well for smoothies; flash-freeze pieces on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
FAQs
No. Pineapples do not ripen significantly after harvest. When selecting one, look for even “eyes,” a yellowish color with minimal green, and firm flesh. If a central leaf pulls out easily, the pineapple is likely ripe.
Yes—canned pineapple works, but drain it well first. Fresh pineapple has a superior texture and flavor when grilled or air-fried.
No. You can cut pineapple into rings, wedges, chunks, or sticks. Rings make a nice presentation, but the flavor is great whichever way you slice it.
More Recipes You May Like
- Air Fryer Onions
- Air Fryer Peanut Butter Banana Spring Rolls
- Air Fryer Apple Chips
- Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken and Rice
Serving Suggestions
- Air Fryer Pork Steak
- Air Fryer Asian Tofu Wrap
- Instant Pot Teriyaki Salmon
Weight Watchers Points
Each serving contains 1 Blue Plan SmartPoint.
Thank you for reading this air fryer pineapple recipe. Come back for more easy air fryer, Instant Pot, and Southern-inspired recipes.
Recipe Card
Air Fryer Pineapple
Delicious air fryer pineapple makes a great side dish or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 pineapple, peeled and cored
- 3 tablespoons honey
- Pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
- Remove the skin and core; slice into even wedges or rings.
- Brush pieces with honey.
- Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook 15–20 minutes, until golden.
- Serve warm, optionally sprinkled with red pepper flakes.
Notes
- Choose a ripe pineapple with even “eyes” and a slightly yellow color.
- Trim top and bottom before peeling to stabilize the fruit.
- Cut pieces evenly and discard the core for best texture and cooking.
- Drain canned pineapple well if using.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 5 days.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 107 • Carbs: 28 g • Protein: 1 g • Fat: 0.2 g • Fiber: 2 g • Sugar: 23 g • Vitamin C: 72 mg