Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple Bites

Bold. Sweet. Smoky. Irresistibly tropical.

A Bold, Tropical Twist for Your Next Gathering

Some appetizers fade into the background, but these are the ones that steal the spotlight. Imagine juicy, golden pineapple wrapped in smoky bacon, brushed with a glossy rum glaze, and kissed by the oven or grill until caramelized and irresistible. Sweet, salty, smoky, and spiced - every bite is a little explosion of flavor.

What makes these bites so special is not just the pairing of bacon and pineapple (a classic on its own), but the way a splash of Kōloa Dark Rum transforms the glaze. Notes of vanilla, espresso, and deeply roasted sugar cling to the bacon as it crisps, turning a simple appetizer into something layered, complex, and unforgettable.

And here is the fun part: this recipe is not only about following steps, it is about learning techniques that you will use again and again. You will see how to soak skewers in rum for an instant flavor boost, discover the secret to making a glaze that caramelizes instead of sliding off, and learn how to balance sweetness, saltiness, and spice so every bite tastes perfectly tuned.

By the end, you will not only have an appetizer ready for your next potluck, game night, or backyard cookout, you will also have the confidence to riff on the recipe, swap flavors, and make it truly your own. Plus, I will share easy entertaining tips, fun pairing ideas, and even a make ahead trick to save you time on party day.

This recipe is featured in my cookbook The Island Spirit: The Ultimate Guide to Rum Infused Cocktails and Cuisine, but today I am giving you the inside scoop right here on Substack. Because once you taste these sticky, smoky, rum-glazed bites, you will want to make them again and again.