Pineapple, Ham and Jalapeño Bites with Cream Cheese

Pineapple, Ham and Jalapeño Bites with Cream Cheese

Published Dec. 3, 2025

Total Time: 15 minutes | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Chill Time: 10 minutes (optional)

Ingredients (for 24 servings)

• 6 slices of prosciutto, serrano ham, or speck (cut into 4 pieces each, yielding 24 total)

• 24 pickled jalapeño slices (½-inch thick, drained of excess liquid)

• 24 (½-inch) fresh pineapple chunks (about 6 ounces)

• 24 small portions of cream cheese (1 teaspoon per skewer, softened to room temperature)

Preparation

Step 1: Prep the Prosciutto

Tear or carefully cut each slice of prosciutto (or alternative ham) into 4 equal pieces, ensuring uniform size for consistent assembly. Serrano ham or speck may require less delicate handling, as their thickness holds better during skewering.

Step 2: Soften Cream Cheese

For optimal spreading, allow 1 tablespoon of cream cheese to soften at room temperature for 10 minutes. This ensures a smooth, pliable texture that adheres to the prosciutto without cracking it. If using cold cream cheese, proceed with caution to avoid tearing the prosciutto.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. On a clean work surface, place a prosciutto piece. Spread a thin layer of softened cream cheese over its center (about 1 teaspoon per piece).

2. Top with a pickled jalapeño slice, pressing gently to secure.

3. Add a pineapple chunk on top of the jalapeño.

4. Insert a sturdy toothpick (appetizer-specific skewers recommended) through the center of the cream cheese, jalapeño, and pineapple to secure all components. Repeat until 24 skewers are assembled.

Step 4: Finalizing the Dish

Place the skewers on a chilled platter (optional, to enhance presentation and prevent condensation). For best flavor, refrigerate for 5–10 minutes to firm the cream cheese and allow flavors to meld. Serve immediately after chilling.

Pro Tips (From User Feedback)

• Toothpick Choice: Use sturdy, pointed toothpicks or appetizer skewers to avoid bending. Regular toothpicks may fail to hold jalapeños, causing structural collapse or injury.

• Jalapeño Quality: Opt for pickled jalapeños with minimal moisture (e.g., "Veggie Confetti Pickled Jalapeños" from Whole Foods, per user feedback) to reduce crumbling. If jalapeños are too soft, wrap them in a thin prosciutto layer before skewering.

• Ham Variations: Serrano ham or speck offer better structural support than prosciutto, which tears easily.

• Cream Cheese Technique: Evenly spreading room-temperature cream cheese creates a cohesive, creamy layer that balances spiciness and sweetness.

Testimonials

• "Adding cream cheese was a game-changer! The tang cut through the jalapeño’s heat perfectly, and the pineapple added brightness."

• "After switching to appetizer skewers (as shown in the photo), no more injuries—just clean plates!"

Note: Adjust cream cheese quantity or skip for a traditional version. The key is balanced flavors: sweet pineapple, salty ham, spicy jalapeño, and creamy tang from cheese.