Fried Pineapple Rings – Tropical Snack Recipe

These fried pineapple rings are lightly coated and pan-fried until golden and caramelized. The natural sugars in the fruit intensify with heat, turning every bite into a juicy, crispy, sweet-tart delight. You can serve them savory (with a sprinkle of chili salt) or sweet (with cinnamon sugar, honey, or coconut cream).

Why You’ll Love Them

  • Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside
  • Only 5 ingredients
  • Quick to cook—just 15 minutes start to finish
  • Naturally vegan and halal-friendly
  • Perfect for snacks, desserts, or brunch sides

Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 (makes 8–10 rings)
  • Calories per serving: ~120

Ingredients

  • 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch rings
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch (makes it extra crisp)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/3 cup cold water (add more as needed)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Oil for frying (vegetable, coconut, or avocado)

Optional Toppings:

  • Cinnamon sugar
  • Powdered sugar
  • Maple syrup or honey drizzle
  • Toasted coconut
  • Lime zest or chili-lime salt for a twist

How to Make Fried Pineapple Rings

1. Prep the Pineapple

  • Peel, core, and slice your pineapple into ½-inch rings.
  • Pat them dry with paper towels—this helps the batter stick.

2. Make the Batter

  • In a bowl, whisk together:
    • Flour
    • Cornstarch
    • Baking powder
    • Salt
  • Gradually add cold water and whisk until smooth and pourable—not too runny.

3. Heat the Oil

  • Add about 1/2 inch of oil to a skillet and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Test with a drop of batter—it should sizzle and bubble immediately.

4. Fry the Pineapple Rings

  • Dip each pineapple ring into the batter, let excess drip off.
  • Carefully place into the hot oil (don’t crowd the pan).
  • Fry for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
  • Use tongs to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

The edges will caramelize and crisp up beautifully—don’t overcook!

5. Top & Serve

  • While still warm, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or drizzle with maple syrup.
  • Serve immediately!

Serving Ideas

  • As a dessert: Top with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or coconut yogurt
  • Tropical brunch side: Pair with chicken and waffles or coconut pancakes
  • Savory snack: Sprinkle with chili salt or lime zest
  • Snack plate: Add to a fruit board with mango, coconut chips, and fresh berries
  • Party platter: Skewer with mint leaves or serve with sweet dipping sauces

Variations

  • Make it gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
  • Spicy version: Add chili powder or cayenne to the batter
  • Sweet upgrade: Mix a little brown sugar into the batter for extra caramelization
  • Baked version: Skip the frying and roast rings brushed with coconut oil at 400°F for 20 minutes
  • Air fryer: Spray battered rings and air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway

Storage Tips

  • Best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for 1–2 days
  • Reheat: Crisp them back up in a hot skillet or air fryer
  • Not freezer-friendly—the batter gets soggy after thawing

FAQ

Can I use canned pineapple?
You can—but drain and pat very dry so the batter sticks and they don’t splatter in oil.

What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, avocado, or coconut work best.

Do I need a deep fryer?
Nope! A shallow pan with about ½ inch of oil works perfectly.

Can I make these ahead?
They’re best hot and fresh, but you can prep the pineapple and batter ahead, then fry just before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Fried Pineapple Rings are crispy, juicy, and just the right kind of indulgent. Whether you go sweet, spicy, or savory, they’re a fun, fast way to bring tropical flavor to your table. Perfect for a weekend treat, summer party, or just when you need a little sunshine on a plate.

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Fried Pineapple Rings – Tropical Snack Recipe


  • Author: Monica
  • Total Time: 30 min

Description

Fresh pineapple slices are dipped in a light batter and fried to golden perfection, then dusted with cinnamon sugar or drizzled with honey. It’s a warm, fruity indulgence that feels like a bite of the tropics.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch rings (or use canned rings, drained)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 tbsp cornstarch

  • 2 tbsp sugar

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¾ cup milk (or coconut milk for a tropical twist)

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Optional toppings:

  • Cinnamon sugar

  • Honey or maple syrup

  • Toasted coconut flakes


Instructions

1️⃣ Make the batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a smooth batter.

2️⃣ Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat 2–3 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).

3️⃣ Dip and fry: Dip pineapple rings into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Carefully lower into hot oil and fry 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.

 

4️⃣ Drain and serve: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. While warm, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or drizzle with honey.

Notes

  • Use canned pineapple for convenience, but pat dry before battering.

  • For extra crunch, double-dip the pineapple in batter and fry again briefly.

 

  • Serve with vanilla ice cream for a next-level dessert.

  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 15 min

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