If you’re craving a mash-up of sunny sweetness and irresistible crunch, let me introduce you to Fried Pineapple Rings! These are sweet, golden nuggets of pure joy: juicy pineapple slices dipped in a delicate batter, fried to a light crisp, then showered with your choice of cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar. They’re a taste of a summer fair right in your kitchen, and they turn a humble fruit into an utterly addictive treat you’ll want to share with everyone. Trust me, Fried Pineapple Rings are as playful and delightful as they sound.

Ingredients You’ll Need
We’re keeping it simple here, using pantry staples and one glorious pineapple. Every ingredient has a special part to play in transforming tangy rings into a crunchy, addictive dessert that’ll disappear fast!
- Fresh pineapple: The star of Fried Pineapple Rings, bringing juiciness and zing—just peel, core, and slice for perfect rounds.
- All-purpose flour: Gives our batter structure and that signature light coating that fries to a tender crunch.
- Cornstarch: Works magic for crispiness, helping the batter cook up airy and delicate.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness to the batter that enhances the pineapple’s natural sugars.
- Baking powder: Ensures the batter will puff just the right amount for fluffy, golden results.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavor—never underestimate a good pinch!
- Milk: Lends richness and helps bring the batter together for silkiness.
- Water: Helps thin the batter to the perfect dipping consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash brings warm, fragrant notes that uplift the whole dish.
- Vegetable oil: Neutral and perfect for frying, it delivers an even, golden crunch without overpowering the fruitiness.
- Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar (optional): Dust over warm rings for a sweet, extra-special finish—totally worth it!
How to Make Fried Pineapple Rings
Step 1: Prepare Your Pineapple
Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your fresh pineapple into rings, about half-inch thick. Try to keep the slices the same size so they cook evenly. If you’re in a pinch, drained and patted-dry canned pineapple rings work beautifully, too!
Step 2: Mix the Batter
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Once those are combined, add milk, water, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything until you have a smooth, lump-free batter that’s thick enough to coat the pineapple without being gloppy.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour about two inches of vegetable oil into a deep pan or pot and heat it to 350°F (175°C). If you have a thermometer, great! If not, drop a tiny bit of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the top, you’re good to go.
Step 4: Dip and Fry
Pat your pineapple rings dry with paper towels (this prevents splatter!), then dip each ring into the batter, letting any excess drip off. Carefully slip them into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for 2–3 minutes per side. You’re looking for a deep golden color and a tempting aroma that fills the kitchen!
Step 5: Drain and Dust
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried rings to a plate lined with paper towels. While they’re still warm, dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for a hit of sparkle and extra sweetness. That’s all there is to it—your Fried Pineapple Rings are ready to eat!
How to Serve Fried Pineapple Rings

Garnishes
Nothing sets off Fried Pineapple Rings quite like a generous sprinkle of powdered or cinnamon sugar. Want to turn up the wow factor? Add a handful of toasted coconut flakes for crunch or a small scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream so the heat of the rings melts it ever so slightly.
Side Dishes
These rings are the perfect dessert after something spicy or savory—think jerk chicken or classic barbecue. Or, set them out with other sweet nibbles like fresh mango, grilled peaches, or chocolate-dipped strawberries for a fun, help-yourself dessert platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer Fried Pineapple Rings in a tower, skewer on sticks for party treats, or sandwich them with a scoop of ice cream between two rings for a playful tropical twist on an ice cream sandwich. You can even chop them into chunks and scatter over pancakes or waffles to instantly brighten up brunch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow end up with leftovers, let the fried pineapple rings cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This keeps them from getting soggy and preserves that nifty sweetness.
Freezing
To freeze, lay the rings on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for about a month. When you’re ready, they can be reheated straight from frozen for an almost-instant tropical treat.
Reheating
To bring back that just-fried crunch, pop the rings into a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for a few minutes—just until crisp and heated through. Skip the microwave, since that tends to make them soft, not crispy.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned pineapple rings work great in this recipe. Just be sure to drain them well and pat dry with paper towels to avoid excess splattering and ensure the batter sticks nicely.
Can I make Fried Pineapple Rings without deep frying?
Yes, you can pan-fry them in a shallow layer of oil if you don’t have a deep fryer. They may not get quite as puffy, but they’ll still be wonderfully crispy and flavorful.
What type Dessert
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, is best. These oils won’t overpower the sweet flavor of the pineapple and yield a golden, even fry.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
You can whisk the dry ingredients together ahead and add the wet ingredients when you’re ready to fry. Freshly made batter works best for getting that lovely airy coating on the rings.
Are Fried Pineapple Rings gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and follow the rest of the recipe—the results are still fantastic!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re craving a taste of the tropics or just want something fun and crowd-pleasing, Fried Pineapple Rings will never disappoint. They’re the kind of treat that sparks conversation and leaves everyone reaching for seconds, so treat yourself and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Fried Pineapple Rings Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 rings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the tropical sweetness of these Fried Pineapple Rings, a delightful dessert that combines the natural flavors of pineapple with a crispy, golden coating. Perfect for a fun and easy treat!
Ingredients
Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional:
- 1 fresh pineapple (peeled, cored, and sliced into rings)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, water, and vanilla extract, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Fry the Pineapple Rings: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Dip pineapple rings into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Transfer the fried rings to a paper towel-lined plate. Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted coconut or serve with vanilla ice cream.
- Canned pineapple rings can also be used—just be sure to drain and pat them dry.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ring
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 2 mg