Ingredients
Method
Prep Your Pineapple
- Open your canned pineapple rings and drain them well.
- Lay each ring on a clean paper towel and pat thoroughly until completely dry. Give them a full two minutes of patting — excess moisture will cause the batter to slide off. Set them aside.
Make the Batter
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate small bowl, beat the egg lightly, then add the milk and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. A few small lumps are fine — do not overmix. The finished batter should coat the back of a spoon but still drip off slowly.
Heat the Oil
- Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot.
- Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, drop a tiny bit of batter into the oil — it should sizzle immediately and float to the surface within seconds.
Fry the Fritter Rings
- Working one at a time, dip each pineapple ring into the batter, letting any excess drip off.
- Gently lower the battered ring into the hot oil. Fry 2 to 3 rings at a time — do not crowd the pan.
- Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until deeply golden. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip them halfway through.
Drain and Dust
- Transfer the finished fritter rings to a wire rack lined with paper towels and let them rest for one minute.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm so it melts slightly into the surface.
- Serve immediately for the best crispy texture.
Notes
Always pat pineapple rings completely dry before battering — excess moisture prevents the batter from sticking. Do not overmix the batter; lumps are fine. Fry in small batches of 2-3 rings to maintain oil temperature. Serve immediately for best texture. Fresh pineapple can be substituted for canned (slice ½ inch thick). For dairy-free, swap milk for oat milk or coconut milk. Dry ingredients can be mixed the night before and stored in a sealed container. Batter can be refrigerated up to 4 hours in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To freeze, place cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in an air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness — avoid the microwave. Can also be made in an air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping once.
