Spiced Pineapple Recipe – Cinnamon & Cardamom Indian Dessert

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Spiced Pineapple Recipe – Cinnamon & Cardamom Indian Dessert

Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful dessert that feels a little bit special, you have to try this Spiced Pineapple recipe. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, and honestly, it’s become a bit of a tradition in my family during the cooler months. I first made this when I was craving something comforting and distinctly Indian-inspired, and it’s been a hit ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average pineapple dessert. The warm spices – cinnamon and cardamom – take it to a whole new level. It’s sweet, tangy, and incredibly aromatic. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, ready in under 30 minutes! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight treat or a delightful addition to a festive spread.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this deliciousness:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 4 thick pineapple slices (peeled, cored, diced) – about 300g
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 green cardamom pods (lightly crushed)
• 3 tbsp sugar – about 40g
• 3 tbsp orange juice – about 45ml
• 0.5 cup water – about 120ml
• 0.5 tbsp vanilla extract – about 7.5ml

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

• Cinnamon & Cardamom: These aren’t just any spices; they’re cornerstones of Indian cuisine! Cinnamon, or dalchini, brings warmth and sweetness, while cardamom, or elaichi, adds a floral, almost citrusy note. They’ve been used for centuries in Indian desserts and drinks – think chai and kheer!
• Pineapple: I prefer using slightly underripe pineapple for this recipe. It holds its shape better during simmering and has a lovely tanginess that balances the sweetness. You’ll want about 300g of diced pineapple.
• Butter: Don’t skimp on the butter! It adds a beautiful richness and helps carry the flavors of the spices. A good quality butter really shines through.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the cinnamon stick and lightly crushed cardamom pods. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until your kitchen starts to smell amazing. This step is key – we want to really infuse that butter with all those lovely spices.
2. Stir in the sugar, orange juice, and water. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. You don’t want any grainy sugar at the end!
3. Add the diced pineapple to the saucepan. Reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pineapple should become tender, and the syrup will thicken beautifully.
4. Once the pineapple is tender and the syrup coats the back of a spoon, remove the saucepan from the heat. Don’t forget to discard the cinnamon stick and cardamom pods before serving!

Expert Tips

Want to make this recipe even better? Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:

• Syrup Consistency: The syrup should be thick enough to coat the pineapple, but not so thick that it’s sticky. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water.
• Preventing Mushy Pineapple: Don’t overcook the pineapple! You want it to be tender, but still hold its shape. Keep a close eye on it during the simmering process.
• Spice Infusion: Really take your time infusing the butter with the cinnamon and cardamom. That initial sauté is where a lot of the flavor comes from.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Vegan Adaptation: Simply swap the butter for a plant-based butter alternative. It works beautifully!
• Spice Level: If you like a little heat, add a tiny pinch of chili powder along with the other spices. My friend, Priya, loves adding a dash – it gives it a lovely kick!
• Festival Adaptations: This spiced pineapple is wonderful served during Diwali or Christmas. It’s a unique and flavorful addition to any festive meal.
• Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. Start with 3 tablespoons and add more if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Okay, now for the fun part – eating! Here are a few ideas:

• With Ice Cream: A classic pairing! Vanilla ice cream is always a good choice, but coconut or cardamom ice cream would be divine.
• On Toast: Spread some on toast for a sweet and spiced breakfast treat.
• With Cakes: Spoon it over a simple sponge cake or vanilla cake.
• As a Filling: Use it as a filling for pastries or tarts.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will give you the best flavor, but make sure it’s ripe but firm.
• What if I don’t have cardamom pods? Can I use cardamom powder? You can use cardamom powder in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant. Use about ½ teaspoon of cardamom powder for every 2 pods.
• How can I make this recipe less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar, or add a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
• Can this spiced pineapple be made ahead of time? Yes! You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
• What other fruits can I use in this recipe? Apples, pears, or peaches would also be delicious!

Enjoy! I really hope you give this Spiced Pineapple recipe a try. Let me know what you think in the comments below!