Fried Pineapple Rings

Ever had a dessert so simple yet so memorable, it becomes the one you keep pulling out when you want to impress with zero stress? That’s exactly what these Fried Pineapple Rings are.

Sweet, crispy, and golden on the outside, juicy and tangy on the inside, these little rings of joy are a tropical getaway on a plate. And that creamy coconut dipping sauce? It’s like a beach vacation in every bite.

Whether you’re hosting a summer get-together or just need a break from the everyday dessert routine, this recipe has your back. It’s delightfully indulgent, but not fussy. Plus, it comes together with pantry staples and a bit of flair. If you’ve got a soft spot for pineapple, coconut, and things that crunch, you’re in for a real treat. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, golden exterior with a juicy tropical center
• Quick and easy to prep with minimal fuss
• That creamy coconut sauce is basically dessert in a bowl
• Crowd-pleaser for adults and kids alike
• Easy to tweak for gluten-free or vegan diets

Fried Pineapple Rings Recipe

• Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including soaking)
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Equipment Needed:

• Mixing bowls (x3)
• Frying pot or deep fryer
• Paper towels
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Small bowl and whisk (for the sauce)

Ingredients

• 8 pineapple rings
• 1 cup pineapple juice (for soaking)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 (10-oz.) bag sweetened coconut flakes
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (plus a little extra if needed for the sauce)
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Swaps:

• Use almond flour for a gluten-free coating.
• Swap agave syrup for powdered sugar in the dipping sauce for a vegan-friendly twist.

How to Make It

1. Soak the Pineapple

Place the pineapple rings in a bowl and pour in the pineapple juice. Let them soak for at least 1 hour to absorb all that sweet tropical flavor. After soaking, gently drain and pat them dry with paper towels. Dry rings fry better!

2. Set Up Your Breading Station

Grab three shallow bowls. Fill one with flour, another with sweetened coconut flakes, and the third with whisked eggs mixed with the coconut milk.

3. Coat the Rings

Dip each pineapple ring first in the flour, then into the egg-coconut milk mixture, and finally into the coconut flakes. Press gently to make sure the coconut sticks evenly.

4. Fry Time

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated rings for about 1 minute on each side or until they’re beautifully golden. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

5. Make the Dreamy Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add a splash or two of coconut milk if needed to reach your desired creamy consistency.

Pro Tips

• Chill the pineapple rings before breading for extra crunch.
• Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to avoid oil splashes while frying.
• Toast the coconut flakes lightly beforehand for deeper flavor.
• Want to turn this into a brunch hit? Serve with waffles or over pancakes!

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour for a sweet-spicy contrast.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Skip the dipping sauce and drizzle melted dark chocolate on top.
• Frozen Treat: Freeze the rings after coating, then air-fry for a lighter twist.
• Mini Version: Use pineapple chunks instead of rings for bite-sized party snacks.

Sweet, crunchy, and a little unexpected, these Fried Pineapple Rings might just be your new favorite way to bring sunshine to the table—no passport required!

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