These spicy brown sugar bacon-wrapped pineapple bites are a tasty treat! The sweet and juicy pineapple pairs perfectly with crispy, salty bacon. It’s a delightful combo!
Honestly, who can resist the charm of bacon? I love serving these at parties. They disappear faster than you can say “yum!” You might want to make a double batch! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and sweetness, but you can use canned pineapple chunks in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well. I love using fresh for that juicy burst!
Bacon: Thinly sliced bacon is key for wrapping easily and crisping up well. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon works too, though it may not crisp as much. I prefer maple bacon for an extra layer of flavor!
Brown Sugar: This provides sweetness. If you’re looking for less sugar, coconut sugar or a sugar substitute can work. But I find that brown sugar caramelizes beautifully, giving a nice crust.
Spices: Chili powder and cayenne add heat, while smoked paprika lends a subtle smokiness. Feel free to adjust spices based on your tolerance. No chili powder? Paprika or Italian seasoning can work too!
How Do I Ensure My Bacon Wraps Are Crispy?
Crispy bacon is the star here, and achieving that requires a few simple steps. Using a wire rack is my secret! It allows fat to drip off and gives the bacon room to cook evenly. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal crispiness.
- Arrange the bites on a wire rack over a lined baking sheet, so the air circulates around the bacon.
- Turn the bites halfway through baking to encourage even cooking. This helps render the fat and crisp the bacon beautifully.
Watch them closely towards the end. You’ll want them golden and crisp but not burnt. Enjoy these tasty bites! 🥓🍍
Spicy Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks (about 1-inch pieces)
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced bacon strips
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 to 2 teaspoons chili powder (adjust to your heat preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
- Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. You’ll have tasty, warm appetizers ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet. This helps the bacon get crispy!
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if you’re including it), and smoked paprika. This sweet and spicy mix will flavour the bacon and pineapple deliciously.
3. Cut the Bacon:
Now, take each slice of bacon and cut it into halves or thirds. The size you cut will depend on how big your pineapple chunks are. You want each piece to fit snugly around a chunk.
4. Wrap the Pineapple:
Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around a chunk of pineapple. Secure it with a toothpick so that the bacon stays in place while baking.
5. Coat with Brown Sugar Mixture:
Generously roll or sprinkle each bacon-wrapped pineapple bite in the spicy brown sugar mixture. Gently press it on to make sure it sticks well!
6. Arrange for Baking:
Lay the prepared bites on the wire rack or directly on the baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced slightly apart for even cooking.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Now, place them in the oven to bake for about 25-30 minutes. Don’t forget to turn them halfway through to ensure even crispiness. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning the sugar!
8. Let Them Cool:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors settle.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve these warm as a delightful appetizer that will wow your guests with the amazing combination of sweet pineapple and spicy bacon. Enjoy every bite!
These Spicy Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering! 🍍🥓
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Pineapple?
Absolutely! While pineapple is a classic choice, you can also try using peaches, apricots, or even apples. Just cut them into similar-sized chunks for even cooking. Make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using firmer fruits!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prep these bites a day in advance! Assemble them, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly, as they’ll be chilled when you put them in the oven.
What Can I Serve These With?
These bites make a great appetizer on their own, but you can serve them with a side of dipping sauce, like a spicy mayo or sweet chili sauce. They’re also a hit next to a fresh salad or loaded nachos!
