These tasty bites combine sweet pineapple and crispy bacon with a kick of spice. The brown sugar adds a lovely caramelized touch that brings everything together!
Trust me, these little gems are addictive. They disappear fast, and you’ll find yourself wrapping a few more pieces just to keep up! I love serving them at parties for some fun flavors.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple chunks can work, but make sure to drain them well. I personally love the freshness of the real deal!
Bacon: I use regular bacon for its great balance of tenderness and crispiness. You can try turkey bacon for a lighter option, but it may not be as crispy. For a smoky twist, consider using bacon with added flavor or spices.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, coconut sugar is a great option, but the flavor may differ slightly.
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust this to your spice preference! If you want something milder, you can swap it for smoked paprika or leave it out. While I love the kick, some may prefer a lighter touch.
How Do You Get the Bacon Crispy and Caramelized?
Getting that perfect crispy bacon while keeping the pineapple juicy is key. Here’s what to do:
- Preheat your oven properly; a hot oven helps with crisping.
- Using a wire rack allows air to circulate around the bacon and prevents it from sitting in grease.
- Turning the bites halfway through baking ensures even crispness all around.
Try to keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking. Everyone loves perfectly golden bacon! Enjoy every delicious bite!
How to Make Spicy Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
For the Spice Mixture:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
For Securing:
- Toothpicks or rosemary sprigs for securing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 10 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, so you can have them ready in less than an hour! You’ll spend a bit of time wrapping and seasoning, but the end result is totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help get everything nice and crispy! Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. The rack is super helpful because it lets the fat drip away as the bacon cooks.
2. Mix the Spice Coating:
In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix well until everything is combined. This sweet and spicy blend is what makes the bites so irresistible!
3. Prepare the Pineapple:
Take each piece of pineapple and wrap it with a half slice of bacon. Make sure to secure the ends with a toothpick or a sprig of rosemary, adding a pretty touch. You want each pineapple cube completely wrapped for maximum flavor!
4. Coat with Spice Mixture:
Now, roll each bacon-wrapped pineapple bite in the brown sugar and spice mixture, covering all sides. This will give you a deliciously caramelized crust when they bake!
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place your bites on the wire rack lined baking sheet, spacing them out evenly. This ensures they can cook without crowding.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll want to turn the bites halfway through to get them extra crispy on all sides. Keep an eye on them as they finish baking to reach your desired level of crispiness.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once they are nice and caramelized, carefully remove the bites from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving so they can set a bit. This will make for easier eating!
8. Enjoy:
Serve these warm as an appetizer or snack at your next gathering. Use toothpicks or rosemary sprigs for easy picking. Get ready for everyone to love the sweet, spicy, and smoky flavor in each delicious bite!
Enjoy your tasty Spicy Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Bites!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned pineapple works in a pinch, but make sure to drain it well to prevent excess moisture. Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture, but canned can be a convenient alternative.
How Can I Make These Bites Less Spicy?
To adjust the spice level, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. You can also replace it with smoked paprika for that smoky flavor without the heat!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can wrap the pineapple bites in advance and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled before going into the oven.
