Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple Recipe with BBQ Glaze

Sweet, smoky, and downright addictive—bacon-wrapped pineapple with BBQ glaze is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The combination of caramelized pineapple with crispy, savory bacon and a tangy-sweet BBQ glaze is a flavor explosion that will leave your guests begging for more. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a holiday party, or just want a fun snack, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Let me tell you, every time I make these, they’re gone in minutes! You might want to double the batch right from the start.

I stumbled upon the idea for bacon-wrapped pineapple while scrolling through old recipe books, and it instantly sparked my imagination. What could be better than combining two of my favorite things: juicy pineapple and crispy bacon? I added a homemade BBQ glaze to take it to the next level, and let me tell you, this recipe has become a staple in my home! If you’re looking for something that’s easy to make but tastes gourmet, this is the recipe for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for last-minute entertaining or a speedy snack.
• Minimal Ingredients: Just a handful of items you might already have in your kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, an appetizer party, or a game night, these are always a hit.
• Fun & Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love these bite-sized treats!
• Incredible Flavor Combo: Sweet, smoky, tangy, and salty—this recipe hits all the right notes.

This isn’t your average bacon-wrapped appetizer. The BBQ glaze sets it apart, giving it a rich, caramelized layer of flavor that complements the pineapple’s natural sweetness perfectly. Plus, it’s super versatile—you can tweak the glaze or even switch up the fruit for your own spin. Honestly, it’s the kind of recipe that makes people ask, “Where did you learn to make this?!”

What Ingredients You Will Need

Simple ingredients come together to create a show-stopping dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh Pineapple: Peeled, cored, and cut into bite-sized chunks (about 1-inch cubes).
• Bacon: Thin-cut bacon works best as it crisps up nicely (use turkey bacon for a healthier option).
• BBQ Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce, or make a homemade version for extra flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds that irresistible caramelized sweetness.
• Garlic Powder: A hint of garlic for depth of flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Optional, but adds a smoky kick.
• Toothpicks: Soak them in water to prevent burning during cooking.

I recommend using a ripe, juicy pineapple for the best flavor. You can also use canned pineapple chunks if you’re in a pinch, but fresh is always better. For the BBQ sauce, brands like Sweet Baby Ray’s or Stubbs are fantastic, but feel free to use what you love or have on hand!

Equipment Needed

• Kitchen Knife: For peeling, coring, and cutting the pineapple into chunks.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for prepping your ingredients.
• Toothpicks: Essential for securing the bacon around the pineapple chunks.
• Baking Sheet: Line it with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Wire Rack: Optional, but helps the bacon crisp up evenly by allowing air to circulate.

If you don’t have a wire rack, don’t worry—just place the wrapped pineapple directly on the baking sheet. For cutting the pineapple, I love using a sharp chef’s knife, but a pineapple corer can save you a ton of time if you have one handy.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the pineapple: Start by peeling, coring, and cutting the pineapple into bite-sized chunks, about 1-inch cubes. Set aside.
2. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Soak the toothpicks: Place toothpicks in a bowl of water and let them soak for about 10 minutes to prevent them from burning in the oven.
4. Mix the BBQ glaze: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika. Stir until smooth.
5. Wrap the pineapple: Take a piece of bacon and wrap it snugly around each pineapple chunk. Secure the bacon with a soaked toothpick.
6. Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the wrapped pineapple on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each piece.
7. Brush with BBQ glaze: Generously brush each bacon-wrapped pineapple with the BBQ glaze.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the glaze is bubbling. Flip the pieces halfway through for even cooking.
9. Cool slightly: Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and prevents burns!

Pro tip: Make sure the bacon is wrapped tightly around the pineapple to prevent it from unraveling during baking.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some secrets to ensure your bacon-wrapped pineapple with BBQ glaze turns out flawless:

• Use thin-cut bacon: It crisps up faster and wraps around the pineapple more easily.
• Don’t skip the toothpicks: These keep the bacon secure and make for easy serving.
• Brush generously: Don’t be shy with the BBQ glaze—it adds so much flavor!
• Flip for even cooking: Turn the pineapple halfway through so the bacon crisps up evenly.
• Watch closely: Bacon can go from crispy to burnt quickly, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.

One time, I got distracted and forgot to flip the pineapple halfway through baking—let me tell you, the bacon was crispy on one side but soggy on the other. Lesson learned! Also, if you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut pineapple chunks to save a few minutes.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sriracha to the BBQ glaze for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free BBQ sauce and check your bacon packaging for gluten-free certification.
• Tropical Twist: Swap the pineapple for mango chunks or even grilled peaches.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Use veggie bacon or grilled zucchini slices wrapped around the pineapple.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce and skip the brown sugar.

I once tried wrapping the pineapple with prosciutto instead of bacon, and while it was delicious, it lacked that smoky flavor only bacon can deliver. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite version!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These bacon-wrapped pineapple bites are best served warm, straight out of the oven. Here are a few serving and storage tips:

• Serving Suggestions: Arrange the bites on a platter for easy sharing. Pair with a refreshing drink like lemonade or a fruity cocktail.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 5 minutes to crisp up the bacon again. Avoid microwaving—it can make the bacon rubbery.
• Make Ahead: You can prep these a day in advance. Wrap the pineapple with bacon, secure with toothpicks, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Pro tip: These make a great addition to a charcuterie board! Add some crackers, cheeses, and fresh fruit for an impressive spread.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s what you’ll get in each serving of these delicious bites:

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving (3 pieces).
• Protein: About 8g, thanks to the bacon.
• Carbs: Moderate, mostly from the pineapple and BBQ sauce.
• Fat: Around 10g, primarily from the bacon.

Fresh pineapple is loaded with Vitamin C and antioxidants, making this snack a surprisingly healthy treat. Plus, bacon provides protein and a satisfying richness. For those watching their sugar intake, opt for a low-sugar BBQ sauce to keep this recipe on the lighter side.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s simple yet utterly unforgettable, bacon-wrapped pineapple with BBQ glaze is it. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors is pure magic, and it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a snack, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

I love making this as a quick appetizer for friends and family, and every time I serve it, I see people light up with excitement. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is so easy to make. Give it a try, and let me know how you customize it—it’s always fun to see how others put their spin on it!

Don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your thoughts. Did you add your own twist? I’d love to hear about it!

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to drain the pineapple chunks well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the bacon soggy.

What’s the best type of bacon for this recipe?

Thin-cut bacon works best because it crisps up quickly. Thick-cut bacon may take longer to cook and could remain chewy.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

No dairy is used in this recipe, so it’s naturally dairy-free! Just double-check your BBQ sauce for hidden dairy ingredients.

Can I grill these instead of baking?

Absolutely! Place them on a preheated grill over medium heat and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking.

What other fruits can I use besides pineapple?

Try mango, peach slices, or even apple wedges. Just make sure the fruit is firm enough to hold up during cooking.

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