Fried Pineapple Rings with Creamy Coconut Dipping Sauce is a tropical dessert that combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with a crispy coconut coating and a rich, creamy sauce. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions, summer parties, or whenever you want a unique and flavorful dessert.
The pineapple rings are soaked in pineapple juice to enhance their juicy flavor, then coated in flour, coconut milk, and sweetened coconut before being fried to golden perfection. The creamy dipping sauce, made with cream cheese and vanilla, adds a luscious contrast to the crunchy exterior.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tropical Flavors: Sweet pineapple and coconut create a delicious tropical vibe.
• Crispy and Creamy: The crunchy coating complements the smooth dipping sauce.
• Simple to Make: Easy steps with impressive results.
Ingredients
For the Pineapple Rings:
• 8 pineapple rings
• 1 cup pineapple juice (for soaking)
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• 1 (10-oz.) bag sweetened coconut
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup coconut milk, plus extra for the dipping sauce
• Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Dipping Sauce:
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: agave syrup for a vegan sweetener
Instructions
Step 1: Soak Pineapple
1. Place the pineapple rings in a bowl and pour in the pineapple juice, ensuring they are fully submerged.
2. Let them soak for at least one hour to enhance their sweetness and juiciness.
3. After soaking, drain the pineapple rings and pat them dry with a clean towel.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
1. Set up three shallow bowls:
• In the first bowl, add the flour.
• In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and coconut milk.
• In the third bowl, spread out the sweetened coconut.
Step 3: Coat the Pineapple
1. Dip each pineapple ring into the flour, coating it lightly.
2. Next, dip the floured ring into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully covered.
3. Finally, press the ring into the sweetened coconut, coating it evenly on all sides.
Step 4: Fry the Pineapple
1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the coated pineapple rings in batches until golden brown, about 1 minute per side.
3. Remove the rings with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce
1. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding coconut milk, one tablespoon at a time, until desired thickness is achieved.
Step 6: Serve
1. Arrange the fried pineapple rings on a serving plate.
2. Serve warm with the creamy coconut dipping sauce on the side.
Tips
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, use unsweetened coconut for the coating.
• Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a consistent 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg and the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftover pineapple rings and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the rings in the oven for best results.
• Freezing: Freeze coated but unfried rings in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
This Fried Pineapple Rings recipe delivers a delightful mix of tropical flavors and textures. The golden, crispy coating paired with the creamy dipping sauce makes it a treat that everyone will love!
