Pin it
Crunchy coconut-coated pineapple circles deliver a taste of the islands in every mouthful. These sweet fruit rings blend juicy insides with a crisp outer layer, while the smooth coconut dip brings an extra touch of tropical indulgence to finish things off.
I came up with this idea during one freezing winter when I couldn't stop thinking about sunny beaches. These days it's my go-to summer party treat, making everyone feel like they're on vacation with each sweet, crunchy bite.
Key Ingredients
- Fresh Pineapple: Look for one that smells good and gives a bit when you push it.
- Shredded Coconut: Go for the unsweetened kind for the best outer crunch.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps everything else stick properly.
- Farm-Fresh Eggs: They make the coating stick and add a rich taste.
- Cream Cheese: Get the full-fat type for the creamiest dipping sauce.
Making Outstanding Pineapple Circles
- Getting Rings Ready:
- Cut your pineapple into even rings and take out the middle part so they cook the same. Dry them well with paper towels so the coating sticks better.
- Setting Up Your Coating:
- Arrange your stations in this order: flour with seasonings, beaten eggs, and coconut flakes. Use your left hand for dry stuff and right for wet to keep things clean.
- Getting Oil Just Right:
- Warm your oil to 350°F exactly, checking with a thermometer as you go. This way your rings turn golden without soaking up too much oil.
- Careful Cooking:
- Put each coated ring into the hot oil gently, leaving room between them. Wait for the coconut to turn gold, then carefully turn them over.
Pin it
The first time I made these for a backyard party, someone asked if I'd trained in Hawaii. I just laughed - it was really just me wanting some beach flavors and playing around in my kitchen until I got it right.
Great Companion Choices
Serve these golden beauties with some fresh mint and a bowl of rich coconut dip. For fancy gatherings, add coconut rum drinks or fruit smoothies to really nail that island party feel.
Fun Twists
Switch things up by mixing crushed macadamias into the coating, adding some dark chocolate drizzle, or serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Want some heat? Throw a bit of cayenne into your coating mix.
Keeping It Fresh
These taste best right away while they're hot and crunchy. If you need to prep ahead, keep your cut pineapple rings in the fridge and only coat them right before you're ready to fry.
After making these island treats countless times, I've realized they're more than just dessert - they're my way of bringing sunshine to any get-together. Whether they cap off a casual BBQ or star in a beach-themed dinner, these crunchy pineapple rings always take folks away to somewhere warm and wonderful.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this without rum?
- Of course! Swap out the rum for pineapple juice and a drip of coconut extract for a similar tropical twist.
- → What kind of pineapple is ideal?
- Fresh slices work great, but canned rings will do fine too! Just pat them dry if you go the canned route.
- → How long should I soak the fruit?
- Let them sit in the liquid for 1-4 hours. Just don’t overdo it, or they’ll turn too mushy.
- → Can I prep these in advance?
- Not really—they’re tastiest fresh out of the pan. The crust doesn’t stay crunchy for long if left standing.
- → What’s good to pair with this?
- Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even your favorite fruit garnish. Mint leaves add a nice fresh touch too!