Easy and Fast Air Fryer Bacon Pineapple Appetizer

Sweet & Salty Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple Bites (Fancy, Fast, and Easy)

This air fryer bacon pineapple appetizer is one of those “how is this so good?!” recipes. It looks fancy on a platter, but it’s actually incredibly easy and fast — just 2 ingredients: sweet pineapple, crispy bacon, and an optional caramelized brown sugar finish.

It’s perfect for New Year’s Eve, holiday parties, dinner parties, and game day because it’s a crowd-pleaser that cooks in about 10 minutes.

The Best Easy Appetizer Ever

This recipe is just as simple as it sounds. You only need:

• Pineapple (fresh or canned)
• Bacon
• Optional – Brown Sugar

I also like to have toothpicks on hand, and I roll the pineapple in brown sugar for an extra sweet, caramelized finish that feels especially “party-worthy.”

Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple: What Works Best?

Fresh pineapple is my favorite for this recipe because it holds its shape well and has the best bite. Plus, the natural sugars caramelize beautifully in the air fryer.

Canned pineapple works too — it’s just a little softer. If you’re using canned pineapple, here’s how to get the best results:

• Use chunks (or spears cut into bite-size pieces), not crushed
• Drain very well, then pat dry with paper towels
• If the pieces are extra juicy, let them sit on paper towels for a few minutes before wrapping

Dry pineapple = crispier bacon. Wet pineapple = steaming and softer bacon. A quick pat-dry makes a big difference!

How to Make a Bacon Pineapple Appetizer

Just like the ingredients, this is easy to throw together:

1. Cube the pineapple into bite-size pieces.
2. Optional: roll the pineapple in brown sugar for extra caramelized sweetness.
3. Wrap each piece with bacon and secure with a toothpick.
4. Repeat for the remaining pineapple.

Cooking Air Fryer Bacon Pineapple Appetizer

This recipe only takes about 10 minutes to cook — it’s perfect when you need something impressive in a hurry.

Lightly spray your basket with your favorite oil to prevent sticking. I love to use avocado oil in my oil sprayer, OR you can use air fryer parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.

Cook for 10 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Flip at the halfway point so the bacon cooks evenly.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use thin-cut bacon for crispier results in the 10-minute cook time.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket — air flow = crispy bacon. Cook in batches if needed.
• Pat pineapple dry (especially canned) so the bacon doesn’t steam.
• Flip halfway for even browning.
• Want extra “fancy”? Serve with a tiny bowl of hot honey or a sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Make-Ahead + Party Planning Mini Guide

Hosting? Here’s how to make these stress-free:

• Prep ahead: Wrap pineapple with bacon up to 6 hours ahead. Store covered in the fridge.
• Cook right before serving: For the crispiest bacon, air fry just before guests arrive (or right as the game or party starts).
• Keep warm: If you’re making batches, keep finished bites warm in a 200°F oven on a rack-lined baking sheet.
• Serving tip: Toothpicks make these grab-and-go — perfect for mingling and buffet tables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes. Use chunks, drain well, and pat dry so the bacon crisps properly.

Can I reheat leftovers?
Yes! Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes until warm and crisp again.

Can I make these in advance?
You can assemble them ahead (up to 6 hours), refrigerate, then cook right before serving.

What other appetizers go well with these?
If you’re building a party spread, pair these with other easy options from our
air fryer appetizers collection.

Final Thoughts

Don’t you love how easy this recipe is? It’s sweet, salty, and feels a little fancy — without being fussy. If you’re new to the air fryer, this Air Fryer Bacon Pineapple Appetizer is a great beginner recipe that always impresses. Leave a comment and tell us your favorite quick party appetizer!

A few more of my favorite air fryer recipes for beginners!

• Air Fryer Carrots
• Baked Potatoes
• Homemade air fryer donuts

Not sure how to use an air fryer? Start here:

• Air Fryer 101
• Avoid These Air Fryer Mistakes
• How to Clean Your Air Fryer
• Adapt Any Recipe for Your Air Fryer

Bacon Pineapple Appetizer in the Air Fryer

This bacon and pineapple appetizer in the air fryer is everything you didn't know you needed. It is quick, delicious, simple, and full of surprising flavors.

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Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

Serves: 12

Adjust Servings: 12

US CustomaryMetric

Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

• 1 pineapple
• 1 pound bacon
• ½ cup brown sugar optional

Instructions

• Cut the pineapple into cubes.
• Roll and cover the pineapple in brown sugar if desired.
• Wrap the pineapple in bacon and secure with a toothpick.
• Place in a lightly sprayed air fryer basket and repeat for remaining pineapple chunks.
• Cook at 400˚F/200˚C for 10 minutes, flipping at the halfway point.

Nutrition

Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 15g | Sodium: 254mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 16g