Sweet, tangy, and beautifully vibrant, this Pink Pickled Pineapple recipe is an easy way to preserve fresh pineapple with a delicious balance of sweetness and warm spices. The apple cider vinegar gives the pineapple a bright, refreshing flavor while the cinnamon and cloves infuse every bite with subtle warmth. As the pineapple soaks in the pickling syrup, it develops a gorgeous pink hue, making it a beautiful addition to charcuterie boards, grilled meats, tacos, sandwiches, salads, or desserts.
This quick refrigerator pickle comes together in just minutes and becomes even more flavorful after chilling overnight. Keep a jar in your refrigerator for an easy gourmet topping that adds a burst of tropical flavor to almost any meal.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Cooling Time
30 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
About 1 quart
1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into bite-sized chunks
¾ cup apple cider vinegar
1¼ cups granulated sugar
⅛ teaspoon salt
6 whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple
Peel the pineapple, remove the core, and cut the fruit into evenly sized chunks. Set aside while preparing the pickling syrup.
Step 2: Make the Pickling Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, whole cloves, and cinnamon stick. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Step 3: Cook the Pineapple
Add the pineapple chunks to the simmering syrup. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pineapple is heated through and has begun to absorb the sweet and tangy flavors.
Step 4: Cool the Mixture
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the pineapple and syrup to cool for about 30 minutes. The spices will continue to infuse the syrup as it cools.
Step 5: Store the Pickled Pineapple
Transfer the pineapple along with the syrup, cinnamon stick, and cloves into a clean mason jar or other airtight glass container. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.
For the brightest flavor, use a ripe but still firm pineapple.
The pineapple will continue to deepen in color and flavor as it chills in the refrigerator.
Remove the whole cloves and cinnamon stick before serving if desired.
Serve with grilled pork, ham, chicken, fish tacos, burgers, sandwiches, salads, rice bowls, or cheese boards.
For a spicy variation, add a sliced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pickling syrup.
Store refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.
