Pineapple is a festive fruit — we like slices on cake, welcome chunks in fruit salad and would even scoop out the inside to hold a cocktail. But sliced thinly and slowly dried in the oven, a pineapple will "bloom" into delicate flowers that look especially cute as garnishes on pina coladas. Here's how to make 'em.
Step 1
Using a knife, remove the top of the pineapple and a 1/2-inch off the bottom so it sits flat on your cutting board.
Step 2
Cut the skin off the pineapple from top to bottom in 2-inch strips.
Step 3
Using a small melon baller or teaspoon, remove all the eyes from the pineapple.
Step 4
Put the pineapple on its side and slice rounds as thinly as possible.
Step 5
Put the slices on the baking sheets lined with silicone baking mats or parchment. Bake at 225 degrees F until almost totally dry and lightly golden around the edges, about 3 hours.
Step 6
Remove from the oven and immediately transfer each flower to a muffin cup, pressing the center to the bottom. Let cool completely, 1 hour.
When cooled, the slightly curled shape and uneven edges mimic the look of petals. Use the pineapple flowers to top pina coladas, cupcakes or other sweet treats.
