Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies: Your New Go-To 5-Star Party Appetizer!

Get ready to dazzle your guests with an irresistible appetizer that disappears faster than you can say “delicious!” These Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies are the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and just a touch of smoky goodness, making them an absolute hit at any gathering. Forget complicated recipes; this simple yet spectacular dish combines juicy little sausages with crispy, caramelized bacon and a hint of brown sugar magic. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s easy to prepare, these bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages are your answer!

What You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these amazing bacon-wrapped treats. You’ll be surprised at how simple the list is for such a flavorful outcome!

1 (14 oz) package little smokies cocktail sausages
1 lb thin-cut bacon (about 12-16 slices)
½ cup packed light brown sugar
1 tsp chili powder (optional, for a hint of spice)
Toothpicks (optional, for securing bacon)

Preparation Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of irresistible Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies. The process is straightforward, ensuring perfect results every time. These bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages are a cinch to make!

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. If you want extra crispy bacon, place an oven-safe wire rack on top of the lined baking sheet.
2. Prepare Smokies: Drain any liquid from the package of little smokies.
3. Cut Bacon: Cut each slice of bacon into thirds or halves, depending on the length of your bacon and how much coverage you want on each smokie. Thin-cut bacon works best for crisping.
4. Wrap Smokies: Take one little smokie and wrap a piece of bacon around it. If the bacon doesn’t stay put, secure it with a toothpick. Arrange the wrapped smokies in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet (or wire rack).
5. Add Brown Sugar: Evenly sprinkle the packed light brown sugar over all the bacon-wrapped smokies. If you’re adding chili powder for a little kick, sprinkle it now as well.
6. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and beautifully caramelized, and the brown sugar is bubbly. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
7. Serve: Carefully remove from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving, as the melted sugar will be extremely hot. Serve warm and watch them disappear!

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

While perfect as is, these bacon-wrapped smokies are also fantastic canvases for creative twists!

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the brown sugar for a sweet and spicy kick.
Maple Glaze: Instead of just brown sugar, drizzle a light maple syrup over them before baking for an even richer, stickier glaze.
Pineapple Combo: Wrap a small piece of canned pineapple (drained) with the smokie and bacon for a tropical sweet and savory bite.
Cheese Infusion: Tuck a tiny piece of cheddar or cream cheese inside the bacon wrap before baking for a gooey surprise.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with a side of honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or even a tangy horseradish dip to add another layer of flavor.

FAQ

Q: Can I make Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble them up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Baking them fresh ensures the crispiest bacon.

Q: What kind of bacon should I use?
A: Thin-cut bacon works best as it crisps up nicely and renders fat more quickly. Thick-cut bacon might require a longer cooking time.

Q: How do I prevent the brown sugar from burning?
A: Keep an eye on them, especially during the last 10 minutes of baking. If you notice the sugar browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the baking sheet with foil. Using a wire rack can also help with even cooking and prevent the bottoms from getting too sticky or burnt.

Q: Can I use turkey bacon?
A: While you can, turkey bacon will have a different texture and flavor. It tends to be less fatty and might not crisp up as well as traditional pork bacon.

Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Conclusion

There you have it – a phenomenal recipe for Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies that promises to be the star of your next event. Easy to prepare, incredibly delicious, and universally loved, these savory-sweet bites are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most impactful. So go ahead, whip up a batch of these glorious bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages and watch them disappear in a flash. Your guests will thank you!

Recipe Note

For optimal crispiness and easier cleanup, consider using an oven-safe wire rack set on top of your lined baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the smokies, helping the bacon to crisp evenly on all sides and preventing them from sticking to the bottom.