Crispy Coconut-Crusted Pineapple Rings

Crispy Coconut-Crusted Pineapple Rings are a delightful tropical treat that combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with a crunchy coconut coating. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or dessert, these rings offer a burst of flavor and texture in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tropical flavor from juicy pineapple and toasted coconut
• Versatile: great for dessert, snack, or party appetizer
• Crunchy exterior with a juicy, tender interior
• Easy to make with simple, everyday ingredients
• A unique and impressive dish that’s also kid-friendly

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh pineapple rings
• All-purpose flour
• Sweetened shredded coconut
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Large eggs
• Salt
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

1. Peel, core, and slice the pineapple into thick rings. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. In one bowl, mix flour with a pinch of salt.
3. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
4. In a third bowl, combine shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
5. Dredge each pineapple ring first in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the coconut-panko mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
6. Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, fry the rings in batches until golden brown and crisp on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.
7. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Serve warm, optionally with a dipping sauce such as sweet chili or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8 rings (depending on the size of the pineapple)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Oven-Baked Version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter alternative.
• Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes until golden.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour for a sweet-and-spicy twist.
• Dessert-Style: Dust with powdered sugar and serve with chocolate or caramel drizzle.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based milk or aquafaba instead of eggs for coating.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store cooled rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed and crisped, about 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy.

FAQs

How do I core a pineapple for this recipe?

You can use a pineapple corer or slice the pineapple into rings and manually cut out the center with a small round cutter or knife.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple rings can work if well-drained and patted dry, but fresh pineapple yields a better texture and flavor.

What type of oil is best for frying?

A neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil is ideal for deep frying.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the rings ahead and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before frying.

Are these gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

What dipping sauces pair well with them?

Sweet chili sauce, honey mustard, or a yogurt-lime dip all complement the tropical flavor well.

Can I bake instead of frying?

Yes, for a healthier version, bake the rings at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, replace the egg with a flaxseed egg or aquafaba, and ensure the breadcrumbs are vegan-friendly.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Make sure to press the coating onto the pineapple firmly, and let the breaded rings rest for 10 minutes before frying.

What can I serve these with?

They pair beautifully with grilled meats, as a dessert with ice cream, or as a tropical appetizer.

Conclusion

Crispy Coconut-Crusted Pineapple Rings are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy pineapple in a new form. Whether served as a dessert, snack, or appetizer, their crispy texture and tropical flavor make them a standout addition to any menu. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

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