If you’re craving something sweet, juicy, and packed with a warm, comforting twist, this Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe is an absolute must-try. It takes fresh pineapple chunks and sautés them in a buttery, honey-cinnamon glaze that caramelizes beautifully, creating a vibrant, mouthwatering treat that’s as simple as it is stunning. Whether you enjoy it on its own or spooned over creamy vanilla ice cream, this dish brings a lively tropical flair with a spicy-sweet kick that’s perfect for any time you want to impress with effortless flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe calls for just a handful of straightforward ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable balance of taste, texture, and color. Each component plays a crucial role, from the natural sweetness of pineapple to the cozy warmth of cinnamon.
- 1/2 small pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple for the best sweetness and juiciness in every bite.
- 1 tbsp. butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect caramelized coating on the pineapple.
- 2 tbsp. honey: Provides natural sweetness and enhances the fruit’s flavor with a luscious glaze.
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon: Offers a warming, slightly spicy note that elevates the pineapple’s tropical taste.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and deepens the overall flavor profile.
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving): Optional but highly recommended, for a creamy contrast that takes the dish to a new level.
How to Make Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple
Start by cutting your half pineapple into small, bite-sized pieces. This size ensures the pineapple cooks evenly and absorbs all the buttery honey cinnamon goodness during frying. Taking a little time to cut the pieces uniformly means your final dish will look beautiful and cook consistently.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Butter Sauce
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter, honey, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Gently stir these ingredients together in the pan until the butter melts and everything combines into a thick, fragrant glaze. This mixture is the heart of your Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe, creating that irresistible caramelized coating.
Step 3: Fry the Pineapple
Add the pineapple pieces to the skillet once the glaze is bubbling slightly. Fry each side for about 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the pineapple to get golden brown and soak up that sweet cinnamon flavor. Keep an eye on the fruit; you want it tender but still with some bite, not mushy.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
Remove the pineapple from the skillet once it’s beautifully caramelized and slightly softened. This is when your Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe shines brightest—fresh from the pan, sticky, warm, and aromatic. Don’t let it sit too long or it might lose its perfect texture.
Step 5: Enjoy
Dig right in or take it up a notch by dropping the warm pineapple onto a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold, sweet and spicy, is pure magic on your palate.
How to Serve Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe
Garnishes
Try sprinkling some toasted coconut flakes or chopped fresh mint over the pineapple for a pop of texture and color. A dusting of extra cinnamon or a drizzle of extra honey can also add a personal touch that makes each serving feel special.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon Fried Pineapple pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or pork for a tropical-inspired meal. It also complements a simple bowl of vanilla yogurt or oatmeal, turning breakfast into an exciting experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser, serve the pineapple in hollowed-out pineapple halves or on skewers as part of a dessert platter. Layering it with granola and yogurt in a parfait glass can transform it into a delightful breakfast or snack option packed with flavor and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days, but enjoy it sooner for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s not recommended for this recipe as pineapple’s texture tends to change when thawed, becoming a bit mushy. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh to experience that perfect caramelized bite.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the pineapple gently in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes to refresh that warm, glazed feeling. Avoid microwaving, which can make it watery and less appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?
Fresh pineapple is definitely preferred because it retains firmness and natural juices ideal for frying. Canned pineapple is softer and can become overly mushy when cooked, but you can still use it in a pinch—just drain it well before frying.
Is this Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe vegan-friendly?
You can easily make it vegan by swapping butter with coconut oil or a vegan margarine. Honey can also be replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the sweetness plant-based.
How sweet is the dish? Can I adjust the sweetness?
The dish is pleasantly sweet but not overpowering thanks to the honey and pineapple’s natural sugars. You can adjust the amount of honey to suit your taste—less for a lighter glaze or more if you prefer it extra sweet and sticky.
Can I add other spices to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a little ground ginger can enhance the warmth and depth of flavor. Just be careful not to overwhelm the star ingredient — the pineapple.
What dessert options go well with Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe?
This recipe is fantastic on its own or served over vehicle ice cream, but it’s also wonderful with pound cake, waffles, pancakes, or even stirred into whipped cream for a tropical twist on classic desserts.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about how effortlessly this Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe transforms a simple fruit into a dazzling treat full of warmth and sweetness. Whether you’re crafting a quick snack or aiming to wow guests with minimal fuss, this dish has your back. I encourage you to give it a try and savor the delightful blend of tropical freshness and cozy cinnamon—it’s a little slice of sunshine on your plate.
Print
Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Sweet and warmly spiced cinnamon fried pineapple is a quick and delicious dessert that pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream. This simple recipe transforms fresh pineapple into a caramelized treat with butter, honey, and cinnamon, making a flavorful end to any meal.
Ingredients
Fruit
- 1/2 small pineapple, cut into bite-sized pieces
Cooking Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. butter
- 2 tbsp. honey
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Serving
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the pineapple: Cut the pineapple into small bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and caramelization. Refer to the video instructions for guidance on how to properly cut the pineapple.
- Heat the skillet and combine ingredients: Place a large skillet on medium heat and add butter, honey, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture to combine and allow it to warm up, infusing the flavors.
- Cook the pineapple: Add the pineapple pieces to the skillet. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden and caramelized, turning carefully to coat all sides with the cinnamon-honey glaze.
- Remove and serve: Once nicely fried, remove the pineapple from the skillet and transfer it to a plate for serving.
- Enjoy: Serve the warm cinnamon fried pineapple on its own or top it with vanilla ice cream for a deliciously indulgent dessert.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure not to overcook the pineapple to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- For a vegan option, substitute butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free ice cream.
- Adjust honey amount according to desired sweetness.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, caramelized texture.
