Looking for a tasty appetizer that’s sure to impress at your next party? Bacon wrapped pineapple is a quick and easy option that combines sweet and salty flavors in one delicious bite.
Bacon wrapped pineapple needs only 4 ingredients and can be made in about 30 minutes.
This crowd-pleasing snack is perfect for entertaining. The juicy pineapple chunks wrapped in crispy bacon create a flavor explosion that your guests will love. You can even add extra toppings like brown sugar or chili sauce to make them even more special.
Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just want a fun snack, bacon wrapped pineapple is a great choice. It’s simple enough for beginners but tasty enough to satisfy foodies. Plus, you can serve them hot or cold, making them super flexible for any type of event.
Choosing Your Ingredients
Picking the right ingredients can make or break your bacon wrapped pineapple bites. Your choice of pineapple, bacon, and seasonings will shape the flavor and texture of this sweet and salty treat.
Selecting the Best Pineapple
Fresh pineapple is ideal for bacon wrapped pineapple. Look for a pineapple with a sweet smell and golden-yellow color. It should feel heavy for its size and have green, fresh-looking leaves.
To prepare, cut the pineapple into 1.5-inch chunks. Remove the tough core before wrapping.
If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple chunks work too. Drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Frozen pineapple isn’t recommended as it can be too watery when thawed.
Types of Bacon to Use
Regular sliced bacon works well, but thick-cut bacon adds extra crispiness and flavor. Avoid very thin bacon as it may overcook before the pineapple is done.
Center-cut bacon has less fat and wraps more easily around the pineapple.
For a smokier taste, try applewood or hickory-smoked bacon.
Turkey bacon can be used for a leaner option, but it won’t crisp up as much.
Pre-cook the bacon slightly for about 3 minutes per side to ensure it crisps up nicely in the final cooking.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers
Enhance your bacon wrapped pineapple with these tasty additions:
- Brown sugar: Sprinkle on top for extra sweetness and caramelization
- Black pepper: Adds a spicy kick
- Cayenne: For those who like heat
- Maple syrup: Brush on for a rich, smoky-sweet flavor
- Soy sauce: Adds depth and saltiness (use low-sodium if preferred)
- Chili sauce: For a tangy, spicy twist
Mix brown sugar with soy sauce or maple syrup with cayenne for a balanced glaze. Brush this on before baking for maximum flavor infusion.
Remember, a little seasoning goes a long way. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste.
Preparing Your Bacon Wrapped Pineapple
Making bacon wrapped pineapple is easy and fun. You’ll need a few basic tools and ingredients to get started. Let’s look at how to wrap, bake, and cook this tasty snack.
Wrapping Techniques
To wrap pineapple in bacon, start with fresh pineapple chunks and uncooked bacon strips. Cut the bacon in half crosswise. Wrap each pineapple chunk with a half strip of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick.
For extra flavor, try these tips:
- Brush the wrapped pieces with barbecue sauce
- Sprinkle with brown sugar
- Add a touch of chili powder for heat
Make sure the bacon covers the pineapple evenly. This helps the bacon cook properly and keeps the pineapple juicy.
Baking Essentials
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Place a baking rack on the sheet if you have one. This allows air to circulate and helps the bacon crisp up.
Arrange your wrapped pineapple pieces on the rack or sheet. Make sure they’re not touching. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them and turn halfway through for even cooking.
The bacon should be crispy and the pineapple tender when done. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Don’t have an oven? No problem! You can make bacon wrapped pineapple using other methods too.
Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the wrapped pineapple pieces on the grates. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
Air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook in batches for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Smoker: If you have a smoker, try cooking at 250°F (120°C) for about 45 minutes. This adds a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.
Remember to always cook bacon thoroughly for food safety. Enjoy your tasty bacon wrapped pineapple appetizer!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Bacon wrapped pineapple makes a tasty treat for many occasions. It’s great as a snack, appetizer, or party food. Here are some ideas to help you serve and pair this yummy dish.
Presentation Ideas
Display your bacon wrapped pineapple bites on a bright platter or wooden board. Use colorful toothpicks to make them easy to grab. You can arrange them in a circle for a fun look.
Try putting them on skewers with other foods like shrimp or mushrooms. This makes a nice mix of flavors and textures.
For a fancy touch, sprinkle some chopped herbs on top. Parsley or cilantro work well. You can also drizzle a sauce over them, like BBQ or teriyaki.
Complementary Foods
Pair your bacon wrapped pineapple with other tasty bites. Some good choices are:
- Bacon wrapped dates
- Bacon wrapped water chestnuts
- Stuffed mushrooms
- Mini quiches
- Cheese and crackers
For dips, try a sweet chili sauce or a creamy ranch. These flavors go well with the salty-sweet combo of bacon and pineapple.
If you’re serving a meal, these bites go great with grilled foods. Try them with burgers, hot dogs, or grilled chicken. They also pair well with Hawaiian pizza.
Theme Party Ideas
Bacon wrapped pineapple fits many party themes. For a luau or beach party, serve them with other tropical foods. Add some coconut shrimp and fruit skewers to the menu.
At a game day party, they make great finger food. Put them out with wings, nachos, and sliders. Your guests will love the mix of flavors.
For a fancy cocktail party, serve them on small plates with other bite-sized foods. Pair with mini crab cakes or bacon wrapped scallops for an upscale twist.
A backyard BBQ is another perfect setting. Grill the bacon wrapped pineapple for extra smoky flavor. Serve with corn on the cob and potato salad for a summer feast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bacon wrapped pineapple is easy to make and can be prepared in different ways. You can add tasty extras like brown sugar or sauces. Here are some common questions about this yummy snack.
How can I make bacon wrapped pineapple in an air fryer?
To make bacon wrapped pineapple in an air fryer, wrap pineapple chunks with bacon strips. Place them in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway through cooking. The bacon should be crispy and the pineapple warm.
What’s the best way to add brown sugar to bacon wrapped pineapple?
For sweet bacon wrapped pineapple, mix brown sugar with a bit of soy sauce. Brush this mixture on each piece before cooking. You can also sprinkle plain brown sugar on top of the bacon before it goes in the oven.
Can you share tips for making a sauce to accompany bacon wrapped pineapple bites?
A simple dipping sauce pairs well with bacon wrapped pineapple. Mix barbecue sauce with a splash of pineapple juice. Or try a sweet chili sauce for a spicy kick. You can also make a honey mustard sauce by combining equal parts honey and Dijon mustard.
What are the steps to prepare bacon wrapped pineapple using an oven?
To make bacon wrapped pineapple in the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Wrap pineapple chunks with bacon strips.
- Place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 40 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
How do I create a Hawaiian-inspired version of bacon wrapped pineapple?
For a Hawaiian twist, add a slice of ham between the pineapple and bacon. Brush with teriyaki sauce before cooking. Sprinkle with chopped macadamia nuts after baking. Serve with a coconut dipping sauce for extra island flavor.
What are some tips for smoking bacon wrapped pineapple to enhance its flavor?
To smoke bacon wrapped pineapple:
- Preheat your smoker to 250°F.
- Use thick-cut bacon for best results.
- Add wood chips like hickory or apple for extra flavor.
- Smoke for 1-2 hours until bacon is crispy.
- Baste with maple syrup halfway through for sweetness.
