Candied Pineapple
Candied pineapple offers a glossy, sweet, and slightly chewy treat with vibrant pineapple flavor. Perfect as a snack, garnish, or dessert topping, it appeals to fruit lovers seeking a homemade candied fruit experience that combines simplicity with a delightful texture and taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, 1/3 cup pineapple juice reserved from drained pineapple slices, and light corn syrup in a 3-quart dish.
- Arrange 5 pineapple slices in a single layer over the sugar mixture.
- Microwave on high (100%) for 8 to 12 minutes or until the sugar dissolves and slices are glossy and transparent at the edges, turning over and rearranging every 4 minutes.
- Cool the candied pineapple slices on a wire rack where they will become more transparent while standing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the sugar mixture. If you don’t have light corn syrup, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup, though it may alter the final texture. Ensure to monitor the microwave closely to prevent burning, especially towards the end of the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Candied pineapple slices are delicious on their own or can elevate various dishes. They pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or yogurt for dessert. Consider using them as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or incorporating them into a tropical fruit salad. They also make a delightful addition to the Exotic Cooler.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candied pineapple slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or use a low oven setting, just until they become slightly warm. Avoid overheating to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Pineapple contains roughly 308 calories, with 3g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but you'll need to slice and juice it yourself. Ensure to reserve enough juice to replace the liquid from the canned pineapple. Fresh pineapple may require slightly longer cooking times to achieve the same glossy appearance.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider reducing the sugar by half and using a natural sweetener like agave syrup. You can also experiment with using less corn syrup and adding a splash of water to help dissolve the sugar. This will still give you a sweet treat without excess calories.
What can I do with leftover candied pineapple?
Leftover candied pineapple can be used in various ways. Try chopping it up and mixing it into oatmeal or granola for breakfast. You can also blend it into smoothies or use it as a topping for cakes and desserts. Additionally, it can add a sweet twist to salads, like Cabbage, Carrot And Raisin Salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).