If you crave a dessert that combines tropical sweetness with a warm, spiced embrace, Cinnamon Fried Pineapple just might be your new obsession. This irresistible stovetop treat transforms juicy pineapple into golden, caramelized bites with just a handful of pantry ingredients. Each piece is enveloped in a buttery, cinnamon-laced glaze that whispers notes of brown sugar, nutmeg, and that hint of something bright if you add a finishing squeeze of lime. Whether you serve it alone, spoon it over pancakes, or crown a scoop of vanilla ice cream, every forkful is a sun-soaked burst of flavor you’ll want to make on repeat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the joys of Cinnamon Fried Pineapple is how it takes only a few everyday ingredients and turns them into something spectacular. Every item in this dish plays a unique role, from bringing out the pineapple’s tropical spirit to creating the luscious caramel glaze.
- Fresh pineapple: Grab one that’s golden and fragrant for the juiciest, most flavorful bite-sized chunks.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps caramelize the pineapple, creating a glossy, decadent sauce.
- Brown sugar: Brings a deep, toffee-like sweetness that melds with the fruit and spices as it melts.
- Ground cinnamon: The key warming note that makes each mouthful cozy and aromatic.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a touch adds another layer of warmth and a subtle nutty flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Balances all the sweetness and makes the other flavors pop.
- Lime juice (optional): A fresh, tangy finish that brightens everything up—especially if your pineapple is extra sweet.
How to Make Cinnamon Fried Pineapple
Step 1: Prep the Pineapple and Pan
Before you get started, peel, core, and chop your pineapple into even, bite-sized chunks. This helps each piece caramelize properly and makes for beautiful presentation. Set your largest skillet over medium heat to let it warm up, so the butter melts evenly and coats the pan.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Once the skillet is warm, add your unsalted butter. Let it melt gently, swirling the pan as needed so the bottom gets a nice even layer. Watch carefully so the butter doesn’t brown or burn—it should stay silky and just slightly golden.
Step 3: Brown the Pineapple
Add the pineapple chunks to your skillet in a single layer. Allow them to cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes. You’re looking for a bit of browning and those coveted caramelized edges, but don’t rush the process—a bit of patience here gives you maximum flavor.
Step 4: Add Sweetness and Spice
Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt evenly over the pineapple. Stir everything together, gently folding the fruit so the spices and sugar coat each chunk. The sugar will begin to melt and bubble, turning into a glossy, fragrant syrup that hugs the pineapple.
Step 5: Caramelize and Finish
Keep cooking for another 5 to 6 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the sauce is thick and the pineapple is glossy, golden, and tender. If you like, squeeze a little fresh lime juice over the top right before you take it off the heat. This simple step adds an instant brightness that balances the rich, spiced caramel perfectly.
How to Serve Cinnamon Fried Pineapple
Garnishes
For the perfect finishing touch, try a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, a handful of chopped fresh mint, or a dusting of extra cinnamon. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side will melt into the warm fruit, creating an instant pineapple sundae.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon Fried Pineapple is naturally versatile—serve it as a simple dessert, a topping for pancakes, French toast, or crepes, or even alongside savory dishes like grilled pork or teriyaki chicken for a sweet-and-savory twist. It’s a dazzling way to elevate your brunch spread or add a tropical touch to family dinners.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the bowl! Layer the caramelized pineapple in parfait glasses with yogurt and granola, spoon it into mini tart shells for quick fruit tartlets, or use it as a warm filling for sweet quesadillas. For parties, thread cubes onto skewers and drizzle with any remaining sauce for easy, elegant appetizers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any extra Cinnamon Fried Pineapple to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen as the fruit sits, making it a lovely make-ahead option for meal prep or desserts during the week.
Freezing
While fresh pineapple has the best texture, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Allow the fruit mixture to cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that just-cooked warmth and caramel flavor, reheat Cinnamon Fried Pineapple gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals until warmed through. Add a splash of water or a pat of butter if needed to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
You absolutely can, especially if fresh pineapple isn’t available. Just drain the canned chunks well before using, as too much moisture can make it harder for the fruit to brown. Fresh pineapple still offers the best texture and flavor—but canned works in a pinch!
Is this recipe vegan?
No, as written it’s not vegan due to the butter. But you can easily swap in your favorite vegan butter to make Cinnamon Fried Pineapple totally plant-based, with all the same rich flavor.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Just use a very large skillet or cook the pineapple in batches to avoid overcrowding, which helps each piece caramelize perfectly. Double everything else and you’re set for a larger gathering.
What else can I add to this recipe?
Try tossing in a splash of rum or a bit of vanilla extract for extra depth, or adding a few finely chopped pecans or walnuts in the last minute of cooking for crunch. The recipe is endlessly adaptable!
How do I know when the pineapple is done?
The pineapple is ready when it’s soft and glossy and you see the sauce caramelize and thicken—usually after about 8 to 10 minutes total. Test a piece for tenderness and flavor, and you’ll know when you’ve hit that sweet spot!
Final Thoughts
A bowl of Cinnamon Fried Pineapple is like an instant ticket to the tropics, wrapped in the warmth of spiced caramel. I hope you love it as much as I do—don’t be surprised if this quickly becomes your go-to treat! Give it a try, share it with friends, and prepare for everyone to ask for the recipe.
Print
Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Indulge in the sweet and spiced flavors of Cinnamon Fried Pineapple. This dessert or side dish features caramelized fresh pineapple chunks cooked with butter, brown sugar, and warm spices until golden and tender.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 fresh pineapple (peeled, cored, and cut into bite-sized chunks)
Spice Mix:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Optional squeeze of lime juice
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Cook Pineapple: Add the pineapple chunks and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly browned.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to coat evenly.
- Caramelize: Cook for 5–6 minutes until pineapple is golden and tender.
- Finish: Remove from heat and add lime juice if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Delicious over ice cream, pancakes, French toast, or grilled meats.
- Best with fresh pineapple for optimal texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
