Easy Cinnamon Fried Pineapple Recipe (2024)

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This Cinnamon Fried Pineapple recipe makes an amazing side dish or dessert option. Pair it with your favorite barbecue or Asian dish, or serve it up with some ice cream for a tropical treat that no one will be able to resist. Have pineapple that isn’t sweet? This recipe is the perfect way to enjoy unripe pineapple!

What to do with Unripe Pineapple

Over the weekend I found fresh pineapples on sale for only $.98 each at my regular grocery store. I didn’t hesitate to grab two at that price. Since I was in a hurry I didn’t give them my usual sniff to see if these pineapples were sweet. Big mistake. Did you know that pineapples do not ripen significantly once they are picked? The sugar content in a pineapple is mostly determined while still on the plant. Pineapple can have changes in color and texture if left out, but the sweetness and flavor is limited. When I cut into my pineapple it was pale yellow and not very sweet. It was so disappointing!

So what do you do if you discover unripe pineapple once you start cutting it up? You do have a few options. You can use it in any way that will allow you to add some additional sweetness from sugar, honey, maple syrup or other fruit. Typically I freeze it and use unripe pineapple for smoothies or a homemade sorbet. Frozen pineapple works great for these recipes. But my new way to use unripe pineapple is to make fried pineapple! You don’t need sweet pineapple to make this dish.

Fried Pineapple Ingredients

To make this fried pineapple recipe, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:

• fresh pineapple (ripe pineapple or unripe pineapple)
• brown sugar
• cinnamon
• butter

That’s it! You can also offer various toppings to really elevate this dish. Some great options for dessert include toasted coconut, toasted nuts or maraschino cherries. If making this as a side dish, it tastes amazing with cooked rice. I prefer a long grain rice such as jasmine rice or basmati rice.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Recipe!

This cinnamon fried pineapple tastes a lot like the grilled pineapple we all know and love. But because this is sauteed pineapple, it can easily be made year round in less than 15 minutes on the stove. My sauteed apples recipe inspired this fried pineapple and I’m so glad gave it a try.

How to Make Cinnamon Fried Pineapple

To make this recipe, start by cutting your pineapple into wedges with a sharp knife. Remove the bottom of the pineapple, top of the pineapple and then the tough outer skin. Cut down the center of your pineapple to create quarters. Remove the tough core and cut into wedges.

Place your pineapple wedges into a large ziploc bag. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon, then give it a gentle shake to evenly coat the pineapple. Heat a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat on your stove top. Melt butter and add pineapple in a single layer and water. Turn pineapple over occasionally and cook until pineapple is tender, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Cool slightly and serve warm.

How to Serve Sauteed Pineapple

This sauteed pineapple is great served warm or cold. You can offer it as a tasty side dish or as a dessert all on it’s own. Use it to top your favorite ice cream or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. I tried it with a little toasted coconut and a maraschino cherry which gives it a tropical feel. (If you also love this combination try a pineapple coconut margarita! So good!) Nutty cashews would have also been a nice touch.

You can also cut these larger wedges into bite sized pineapple pieces before cooking and offer it as topping for pancakes, waffles or crepes! Consider making fried pineapple as a side dish with your favorite stir fry, sweet and sour chicken, or fried rice dishes as an easy weeknight meal. It really does add to that asian flavor. I love it with warm rice.

This fried pineapple tastes great warm, right from the frying pan, but you can also prepare ahead of time if needed. For a special fall treat or side dish, next time try my fried apples recipe!

How long does fried pineapple last?

Fried pineapple, like most cooked fruits, is best enjoyed when freshly prepared. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for a short period. In general, fried pineapple can be refrigerated for up to 2 to 3 days. It will still taste delicious the next day. To ensure the best quality and taste, it’s important to store properly. Here are some guidelines:

• Cool the fried pineapple to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator. This helps prevent condensation and moisture buildup, which can lead to a loss of texture and flavor.
• Place the pineapple in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This will minimize exposure to air and moisture.

How would you enjoy this fried pineapple recipe?