These Fried Coconut Pineapple Rings are a delicious and tropical treat that’s perfect for a dessert or a sweet snack. The crispy coconut coating complements the juicy pineapple, and the creamy dipping sauce adds a perfect finishing touch. This recipe can be easily adapted to be gluten-free or vegan.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus 1 hour soaking time)
Ingredients
- For the Pineapple Rings:
- 8 pineapple rings
- 1 cup pineapple juice (for soaking)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1 (10-oz.) bag sweetened coconut
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For the Creamy Dipping Sauce:
- 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Extra coconut milk, for adjusting sauce consistency
- Optional: Agave syrup for a vegan sweetener
Directions
- Soak Pineapple:
- Place the pineapple rings in a medium bowl.
- Cover with pineapple juice and let soak for at least 1 hour.
- Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
- Prepare Coating:
- Set up a coating station with three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: All-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free).
- Bowl 2: Whisk together eggs and 1/2 cup coconut milk.
- Bowl 3: Sweetened coconut.
- Set up a coating station with three shallow bowls:
- Coat Pineapple:
- Dip each pineapple ring first in the flour, then in the egg mixture, and finally in the sweetened coconut. Press the coconut onto the pineapple to coat evenly.
- Fry Pineapple:
- Heat a deep pot with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the coated pineapple rings in batches until golden brown, about 1 minute per side.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the rings from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Make Dipping Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Thin the sauce with additional coconut milk to reach the desired consistency. Add agave syrup if a vegan sweetener is preferred.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the fried pineapple rings hot with the creamy dipping sauce on the side.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of extra sweetened coconut or a drizzle of agave syrup for added sweetness.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- Use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature if needed.
- For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a flax egg mixture (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water).
Nutritional Benefits
- Pineapple: Rich in vitamins C and A, promoting a healthy immune system.
- Coconut: Provides healthy fats and adds a delicious tropical flavor.
- Coconut Milk: Contains vitamins and minerals, offering a dairy-free alternative.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use agave syrup in the dipping sauce.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover fried pineapple rings and dipping sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Reheat the pineapple rings in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe quick and straightforward.
- Tropical Flavor: The combination of pineapple and coconut brings a taste of the tropics to your table.
- Versatile: Easily adapted to be gluten-free or vegan.
Conclusion
These Fried Coconut Pineapple Rings with Creamy Dipping Sauce are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the sweet and crispy rings with the rich and tangy dipping sauce. Whether you’re serving these as a dessert for a tropical-themed party or just enjoying them as an afternoon snack, they are sure to be a hit. The recipe is flexible, accommodating gluten-free and vegan diets, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
