Maple Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple Bites – West Virginia Grill

Introduction

Smoky, sweet, and juicy, these Maple Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple Bites are the perfect grilled appetizer. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, they combine the caramelized char of fresh pineapple with crispy bacon and a rich maple glaze. Whether you're tailgating in the mountains or hosting a backyard BBQ, these West Virginia-style bites bring flavor and flair to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 fresh pineapple, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
• 1 lb thick-cut bacon (halved)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted, for grilling)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky heat)
• Toothpicks (soaked in water for 20 minutes)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the bottom of your Arteflame grill.
2. Stack a few pieces of firewood over the napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to grow; you'll be ready to cook in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prep the Pineapple Bites

1. Cut the pineapple into 1.5-inch chunks.
2. Cut the bacon slices in half so they wrap neatly without overlapping.
3. Wrap each pineapple chunk with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.

Step 3: Make the Maple Glaze

1. In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
2. Stir until well mixed and set aside.

Step 4: Sear and Grill on the Arteflame

1. Place a bit of melted butter on the flat cooktop griddle of the Arteflame — especially near the center where the temperature is higher.
2. Sear the bacon-wrapped pineapple bites close to the center of the cooktop for 1-2 minutes per side to render the bacon and seal in the juices.
3. Move them toward the outer edge of the cooktop to continue cooking through, flipping occasionally for even crispiness.

Step 5: Glaze and Finish

1. During the last 4–5 minutes of grilling, brush the maple glaze over each bite.
2. Let the glaze caramelize without burning — avoid using the hottest zone at this stage.
3. Remove from the grill when the bacon reaches your preferred crispiness and internal temp is about 165°F — remember, the bites will continue cooking off the heat.

Tips

• Use thick-cut bacon — it grills better and holds together beautifully.
• Butter adds unmatched flavor to the sear — skip olive oil for this one.
• Always soak your toothpicks so they don’t burn on the grill.
• The Arteflame's outer area is cooler — use it to avoid burning as you finish cooking.
• Make extra glaze for dipping or drizzle after grilling for extra sweetness.

Variations

1. Spicy Jalapeño Bacon Bites: Add a sliver of jalapeño to each pineapple chunk before wrapping for a sweet-spicy combo.
2. Teriyaki Twist: Substitute maple syrup with teriyaki glaze and sprinkle with sesame seeds right before serving.
3. Caribbean Coconut Bites: Mix crushed pineapple and shredded coconut, wrap in bacon, and glaze with a rum-maple combo.
4. Honey Bourbon Pineapple Bites: Replace the glaze with a honey and bourbon reduction for a touch of warmth and sweetness.
5. BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Bites: Use your favorite BBQ sauce instead of the maple glaze for a smoky, tangy flavor profile.

Best pairings

• Cold, crisp IPA or pale ale
• Grilled corn with chili butter
• Classic macaroni salad
• Fruit-forward sangria or sparkling rosé
• Grilled peaches with whipped cream for dessert

Conclusion

These grilled West Virginia-style Maple Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple Bites are a guaranteed hit. Cooked on the Arteflame grill, they boast layers of crispy, caramelized, juicy goodness that will convert any skeptic. From tailgates to backyard cookouts, these bites bring the perfect balance of sweet and savory to your grilling game.