Pineapple-Glazed Bacon Hawaiian Sliders: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Snack
When it comes to finger foods, nothing beats the allure of a perfectly crafted slider. Our Pineapple-Glazed Bacon Hawaiian Sliders are a sweet and savory delight that transport your taste buds straight to the tropics. With each bite, you experience the crunch of glazed bacon harmonizing with the tangy zing of pickled jalapeños, all encompassed within a soft, pillowy Hawaiian roll.
The key to this dish lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Thick-cut bacon forms the smoky, salty backbone of the dish, while pineapple preserves inject a dose of fruity sweetness, creating a sumptuous glaze that elevates the bacon to an irresistible level of caramelized delight. Meanwhile, pickled jalapeños add a kick of heat, perfectly countered by the naturally sweet Hawaiian rolls. Fresh pineapple slices provide not only a burst of tropical freshness but also a contrasting texture that makes these sliders truly captivating.
Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready. The bacon needs to bake just right, achieving a crisp texture that won't become chewy once glazed. Keep a close eye on your glaze; it should be thick enough to coat the bacon without dripping excessively. For best results, use a silicone baking mat or nonstick aluminum foil to keep the bacon from sticking, ensuring it's easy to handle when it comes time to slice and assemble.
Ingredients
- Nonstick aluminum foil
- 12 slices thick-cut bacon: These provide a savory, crispy base.
- ¼ cup pineapple preserves: Adds a tropical sweetness.
- ¼ cup no-salt-added chicken stock (or broth): Balances the glaze without adding excessive sodium.
- ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce: Contributes umami depth.
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce: Offers a subtle background heat.
- ⅓ cup fresh pineapple chunks: For freshness and acidity.
- 12 pickled jalapeño slices: Adds a spicy zing.
- 12 Deli Hawaiian dinner rolls: Soft and slightly sweet, perfect for sliders.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil. This is crucial for even cooking and easy cleanup.
- Lay the bacon slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 28–30 minutes until they are crispy. Carefully drain the fat from the baking sheet after removing it from the oven.
- As the bacon bakes, prepare the glaze. Combine the pineapple preserves, chicken stock, soy sauce, and sriracha in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 8–10 minutes until it thickens. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the glaze for later use.
- Pour the remaining glaze over the baked bacon, evenly coating each slice. Return the bacon to the oven, baking for an additional 6–8 minutes until the glaze is set and sticky. Allow the bacon to cool for about 5 minutes, then cut each strip in half for easier assembly on the rolls.
- While the bacon cools, slice your Hawaiian rolls and fresh pineapple. Lay the bottom halves of the rolls out on a work surface.
- Now, it’s time to assemble! Top each roll bottom with a piece of glazed bacon, a drizzle of the reserved glaze, a slice of pineapple, and a pickled jalapeño. Finish each slider with the top half of the roll, pressing gently to secure.
- Serve these delightful sliders immediately, letting guests savor the medley of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.
Tips for Troubleshooting If Something Goes Wrong with the Recipe
- Too thick glaze? Add a splash of chicken stock to loosen it up and stir until smooth.
- Bacon not crisping? Ensure there is enough space between slices for air circulation, and bake a bit longer, checking every few minutes.
- Too spicy? Cut back on sriracha or balance with more pineapple preserves.
- Rolls breaking apart? Opt for slightly denser dinner rolls to provide better support for the fillings.
Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe
These Pineapple-Glazed Bacon Hawaiian Sliders are versatile and can pair beautifully with various sides and beverages:
- Side Dishes: Serve alongside a refreshing citrus salad to enhance the tropical essence, or opt for a crunchy coleslaw to play with textures.
- Drinks: Try a crisp Riesling or a tropical fruit punch to complement the sweet and savory elements of the sliders. Non-alcoholic options, such as iced tea with a splash of pineapple juice, also work well.
- Desserts: End the meal with light coconut macaroons or mango sorbet for a sweet, tropical conclusion.
How to Store Properly
- For refrigeration: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To prevent sogginess, store components (bacon, rolls, glaze) separately if possible.
- For freezing: Although these sliders are best fresh, you can freeze the baked bacon slices. Wrap them tightly in foil and place in a resealable bag for up to 1 month. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F until hot and crisp before assembling.
FAQs
- Can I make these sliders ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the glaze and bake the bacon in advance. Simply store them separately and assemble fresh to retain texture.
- What can I use as a soy sauce alternative? Tamari is a great gluten-free option, or you could try coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter take.
- Can I use other types of bread? Certainly! Slider buns or brioche rolls make good substitutes, offering a similar sweetness and softness.
- How can I make this vegetarian? Substitute crispy tempeh bacon and use vegetable broth to make the glaze.
