How to make
The pineapple is prepared first so the fritters fry evenly. The fruit is peeled, cored and cut into bite-size chunks, then patted very well with kitchen paper. Removing the extra juice helps the batter cling to the pineapple and keeps the oil from splattering.
The cinnamon sugar is mixed in a shallow bowl by combining the granulated sugar and cinnamon. It is set aside near the stove, because the warm pineapple fritters are best coated as soon as they come out of the oil.
For the batter, the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and sugar are stirred together in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, the egg, milk and vanilla are whisked until smooth. The wet mixture is poured into the dry ingredients and stirred just until a thick, spoon-coating batter forms. A few tiny lumps are fine; overmixing can make the fritters heavy instead of light and crisp.
The oil is heated in a deep, heavy pan to 175°C / 350°F. If a thermometer is not available, a small drop of batter should sizzle immediately and rise to the surface without darkening too quickly. The pineapple chunks are dipped into the batter one by one, allowing the excess to drip back into the bowl.
The coated pineapple is fried in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes, turning once or twice, until the fritters are puffed, golden and crisp on all sides. The pan should not be crowded, as too many pieces lower the oil temperature and make the coating greasy.
The fried fritters are lifted out with a slotted spoon and drained briefly on kitchen paper for about 30 seconds. While still hot, they are rolled gently in the cinnamon sugar so the coating sticks to the crisp surface.
The warm cinnamon sugar pineapple fritters are served right away, piled on a plate and finished with fresh mint leaves and pineapple wedges. They are best freshly fried, when the outside is crisp and the pineapple inside is juicy and tender.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, then reheated in an oven or air fryer at 180°C / 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes.
For more classic desserts, try the delicate easy eclairs for beginners and the authentic original italian tiramisu to end your meal on a sweet note.
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