1. Prepare the Pineapple:
- Peel and Core: Start by cutting off the top and bottom of the pineapple. Stand it upright and carefully cut off the skin. Slice the pineapple into rounds and use a corer to remove the core from each slice. Alternatively, you can cut the pineapple into chunks or spears.
- Mix Sugar and Spices: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to create the seasoning blend.
- Coat Pineapple: Lightly coat the pineapple slices, chunks, or spears with the sugar and spice mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Air Fry the Pineapple:
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Pineapple: Place the pineapple pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Cook: Air fry the pineapple at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the pineapple is golden brown and caramelized. The exact time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the pineapple pieces.
3. Serve:
- Cool Slightly: Remove the pineapple from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Enjoy: Serve the air-fried pineapple warm as a snack, dessert, or side dish. It pairs wonderfully with ice cream, yogurt, or a drizzle of honey.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pineapple:
- Uniform Size: Cut the pineapple pieces into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure to cook the pineapple in a single layer for the best results. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Additional Flavors: Experiment with additional flavors like a sprinkle of nutmeg, a squeeze of lime juice, or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
This Air Fryer Pineapple recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a sweet and healthy treat. The air fryer enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple, making it a delicious addition to any meal or a perfect stand-alone snack. Enjoy this exclusive recipe and share the joy of delightful, caramelized pineapple with your visitors!