Air Fryer Pineapple

This Air Fryer Pineapple recipe turns pineapple chunks into a warm, sweet dessert using brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and butter. The air fryer cooks off the excess moisture while the sugar and spices melt into a coating that clings to every piece, leaving the pineapple soft with lightly caramelized edges. The whole thing is done in about 20 minutes with just a bowl, a spoon, and the air fryer basket to clean up!

Prep Time5

Cook Time15

Total Time20

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Keyword: air fried pineapple, air fryer pineapple

Servings: servings

Calories: 342kcal

Ingredients

2 cans pineapple chunks, drained (20 ounces per can)
¼ cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 385℉ so it’s hot and ready when the pineapple goes in.
Mix the pineapple: Add the drained 2 (20 ounce) cans pineapple chunks to a bowl. Sprinkle in the ¼ cup light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 Ttablespoon cornstarch, then pour in the melted 1 tablespoon unsalted butter. Stir until the pineapple is evenly coated. Some liquid at the bottom of the bowl is normal.
Transfer to the air fryer: Using a slotted spoon, move the pineapple into the preheated air fryer basket. Leave excess liquid behind so the pineapple cooks evenly.
Air fry: Air fry for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through so the pieces cook on all sides.
Cool and serve: Carefully remove the pineapple from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

To Make in Advance: You can drain the pineapple and mix it with the brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and butter a few hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook. Stir again before adding to the air fryer since liquid may settle at the bottom.

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days for best results. Reheat briefly in the air fryer to tighten the coating, or microwave if you just want it warmed through.

Use a Slotted Spoon: The coated pineapple will have some liquid at the bottom of the bowl, and pouring it all into the air fryer can interfere with caramelization. Using a slotted spoon lets you leave most of the excess liquid behind so the coating sets properly.

Nutrition