Coconut Fried Pineapple Rings

I’ve always loved creating desserts that remind me of sunny beaches and tropical vibes. That’s why this coconut fried pineapple rings recipe holds a special place in my kitchen. I remember the first time I made it—it was a spontaneous idea during a family gathering. We were craving something sweet, crispy, and refreshing, and these pineapple rings turned out to be an instant hit.

The contrast of the juicy pineapple with the crispy coconut coating is simply irresistible. Plus, the dipping sauce makes it even more indulgent. It’s one of those recipes that brings joy with every bite and instantly transports you to a carefree summer day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is packed with tropical flair and has everything you need in a crowd-pleasing dessert. You’ll fall in love with the crispy texture on the outside and the soft, juicy pineapple inside.

Versatile
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can use either fresh or canned pineapple rings, depending on what you have on hand. Both work beautifully, and you’ll get amazing results either way.

The coconut crust adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sweet pineapple perfectly. If you prefer, you can also switch up the coating by adding chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Budget-Friendly
This dessert is surprisingly affordable. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and you don’t need any fancy equipment to make it.

Fresh pineapples are usually inexpensive, and even canned ones work great. Plus, you can make a batch large enough to feed a crowd without spending much.

Ingredients for the Recipe

For the Pineapple Rings:

• 8 pineapple rings (fresh or canned, drained)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup coconut milk

• 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut

• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons reserved Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) (replacing rum from soaking)

This dessert is the perfect treat for those who love bold, tropical flavors. The ingredients are simple, but they combine to create something truly special.

How to Make This Recipe

Making these coconut fried pineapple rings is easier than you might expect. I love how quickly everything comes together, yet the result feels like a gourmet dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making

First, you’ll need to prepare the pineapple rings. If you are using fresh pineapple, peel it, remove the core, and slice it into even rings. Canned pineapple rings work just as well. Drain them thoroughly to remove excess liquid.

To begin, place the pineapple rings in a medium bowl. Instead of soaking them in rum, I soak them in a mixture of coconut milk and Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free). This keeps them juicy while adding a fragrant, tropical note. Let the pineapple soak for about an hour for maximum flavor.

Once the pineapple rings are ready, drain them and gently pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because removing excess moisture helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispier result.

Next, set up your breading station. In the first shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second, whisk together the eggs and coconut milk until well combined. In the third bowl, pour the sweetened shredded coconut.

Working one ring at a time, carefully dredge each pineapple slice in flour. Make sure the entire surface is lightly coated. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off. After that, coat it generously in shredded coconut. Press gently so the coconut sticks firmly. This layering creates the perfect crispy shell when fried.

Quick and Easy

Now, it’s time to fry. In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom with at least one inch of oil. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Fry the pineapple rings in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Each ring only needs about one minute per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a beautiful golden brown. Carefully remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

Customizable

This recipe is easy to customize. You can sprinkle a touch of cinnamon into the coconut for a warm spice note. Or, if you prefer a nuttier taste, mix chopped almonds or cashews into the coconut coating.

For a lighter version, you can bake the rings in the oven at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating becomes golden and crispy.

Crowd-Pleasing

The last step is to prepare the dipping sauce. In a medium bowl, blend softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Instead of using rum, I stir in Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) to keep it family-friendly but still flavorful. Mix until creamy and smooth, adding a bit more coconut milk if needed to thin the sauce to your preferred consistency.

Serve the pineapple rings warm alongside the creamy dipping sauce. They’re crispy, sweet, and impossible to resist. Whether it’s a summer gathering or a casual dessert night, this treat is always a winner.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?
Yes, you absolutely can. Canned pineapple rings work perfectly. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry before coating them. This helps the coconut crust stick better and keeps the rings crispy during frying.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
It’s very simple to adapt this recipe. You can replace the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use coconut-based powdered sugar substitutes if preferred. Additionally, check that your coconut milk and all other ingredients are dairy-free.

Can these pineapple rings be baked instead of fried?
Yes, they can be baked. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated pineapple rings on a lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake for around 15 minutes. Flip them halfway through to get even browning on both sides.

How should I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in the oven or an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

Can I prepare the rings in advance?
You can prepare the coated pineapple rings in advance and refrigerate them before frying. However, it’s best to fry them just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

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