These Spicy Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Bites are a perfect mix of sweet and savory! The juicy pineapple pairs beautifully with crispy bacon and a kick of spice. Yum!
Honestly, who can resist bacon? Wrapped around pineapple, it’s like a party in your mouth! I love serving these at gatherings—they disappear faster than I can make them! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is best for sweetness and juiciness. If fresh isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple chunks but be sure to drain them well. I find fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture!
Bacon: I love using regular bacon, but turkey bacon is a great alternative for a lighter option. Just know that turkey bacon may not get as crispy. Keep an eye on the cooking time to adjust for this!
Brown sugar: This ingredient gives a nice caramel flavor. If you don’t have brown sugar, consider using coconut sugar or even white sugar with a bit of molasses mixed in for similar sweetness. I prefer a darker brown sugar for a richer taste.
Cayenne pepper: Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level. If you want it milder, use less or try some chili powder instead. I like a bit of heat to balance the sweetness!
How Do I Make Sure My Bacon is Crispy?
Getting your bacon nice and crispy is key to making these bites delicious! Follow these tips for perfect results:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C). This helps the bacon render fat quickly.
- Use a wire rack on top of your baking sheet. This allows the fat to drip off and the heat to circulate around the bacon.
- Keep an eye on them from 20 minutes onward. If the bacon looks nice and brown but the edges seem to burn, consider removing them early.
- Allow the bites to cool a little after baking. This helps the bacon firm up a bit, making them easier to eat!
How to Make Spicy Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks (about 1-inch pieces)
- 12 slices of bacon, each cut in half
For the Spicy Coating:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
Other Supplies:
- Toothpicks, for securing the bites
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 20-25 minutes of baking. So, about 40-45 minutes total to have these delightful bites ready for snacking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This makes cleanup super easy! Then, place a wire rack on top. This allows the bacon grease to drain off while keeping the bites crispy.
2. Make the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Mix them well until everything is evenly blended. This will be the magic sprinkle that makes everything taste amazing!
3. Wrap the Pineapple:
Take a chunk of pineapple and wrap it with a half slice of bacon. Make sure the bacon is wrapped snugly around the pineapple. Secure it with a toothpick to hold it all together. Repeat this step until all the pineapple chunks are wrapped!
4. Coat in the Spicy Mixture:
Now, sprinkle the brown sugar and spice mixture over each bacon-wrapped bite. Gently press the sugar mix into the bacon so it sticks well. This will create that irresistible sweet and spicy crust.
5. Arrange and Bake:
Place the bacon-wrapped bites on the wire rack in a single layer. Bake them in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the bacon to be crispy and caramelized while the pineapple becomes tender.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once they look golden and delicious, remove them from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle. Serve these tasty bites warm as an appetizer or snack, and enjoy the delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple for this recipe! Just make sure to drain the chunks well to remove excess moisture, as fresh pineapple provides a juicier texture that enhances the dish.
How Can I Make These Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice mixture or leave it out altogether. You can also use a milder seasoning like paprika for a bit of flavor without the heat.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp them up again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bites and arrange them on the baking sheet without baking them. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
