Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple. Lay the pineapple on its side and slice off the top and bottom. Stand it upright and carefully slice off the skin in vertical strips, following the curve of the fruit. Once peeled, cut the pineapple in half lengthwise, then quarter it. Remove the tough, fibrous core from each quarter. Cut each quarter into long, evenly sized spears, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Aim for roughly 24-32 spears from one large pineapple.
Step 2: Pat Dry the Pineapple. This is a crucial step for achieving that perfect coating. Lay the pineapple spears on paper towels and gently pat them dry, removing as much surface moisture as possible. Excess moisture will prevent the sugar and Kool-Aid from adhering properly and can lead to a gummy texture. Replace paper towels as needed until the spears feel relatively dry to the touch.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating Mixture. In a shallow dish or a sturdy resealable plastic bag, combine the unsweetened Kool-Aid powder and the granulated sugar. Whisk or shake vigorously until the two ingredients are thoroughly combined and there are no clumps of Kool-Aid. Ensure the color is uniform throughout the sugar.
Step 4: Coat the Pineapple Spears. Working in batches of 3-4 spears at a time, place the dried pineapple spears into the sugar and Kool-Aid mixture. Gently toss, roll, or shake the spears until they are evenly coated on all sides. You want a good, thick layer of the colorful mixture clinging to each spear.
Step 5: Arrange and Set. Once coated, transfer the Koolaid Pineapple Spears to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet or a large platter. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer without touching each other. This allows for even air circulation, helping the coating to set.
Step 6: Chill (Optional, but Recommended). For the best results and a firmer, more intensely flavored coating, place the baking sheet with the coated Koolaid Pineapple Spears into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This chilling time helps the sugar adhere and harden slightly, creating that delightful crunch.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy! Once chilled, your vibrant and delicious Koolaid Pineapple Spears are ready to be devoured. Serve them as a fun snack, a festive party appetizer, or a refreshing dessert. Any leftover spears can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Consider storing them in a container like these Basics Glass Food Storage containers to keep them fresh and prevent odors.