Bacon Wrapped Smokies
These Bacon Wrapped Smokies are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Crispy bacon wrapped around juicy little smokies, all glazed with a brown sugar coating that caramelizes to perfection during baking. Whether you're hosting a Christmas gathering, a New Year's celebration, or simply need a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat
- Toothpicks
- Small Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 pound little smokies sausages 16 ounces
- 1 pound regular sliced bacon not thick-cut
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup optional, for extra caramelization
- toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Cut the bacon strips into thirds crosswise. Pro tip: partially freezing the bacon for 10 minutes makes it easier to cut cleanly without stretching.
- Take each piece of cut bacon and wrap it around a smokie, securing with a toothpick. The bacon should overlap slightly to ensure it stays in place during baking.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar with cayenne pepper (if using).
- Roll each wrapped smokie in the brown sugar mixture, ensuring all sides are coated. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving small spaces between each piece.
- If using maple syrup, drizzle it lightly over the arranged smokies.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the sugar is bubbly and caramelized. About halfway through cooking, rotate the pan for even browning.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. The sugar coating will be extremely hot right out of the oven.
Notes
- For best results, use bacon that's at room temperature for about 10 minutes - this makes it more pliable and easier to wrap.
- If making ahead, wrap the smokies in bacon and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, but add the sugar coating just before baking.
- These can be kept warm in a slow cooker on the "warm" setting for up to 2 hours at a party.
- Try adding 2 tablespoons of bourbon or whiskey to the brown sugar mixture for an adult variation.
- If making ahead, wrap the smokies in bacon and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, but add the sugar coating just before baking.
- These can be kept warm in a slow cooker on the "warm" setting for up to 2 hours at a party.
- Try adding 2 tablespoons of bourbon or whiskey to the brown sugar mixture for an adult variation.
Nutrition
Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 12gFat: 23gSodium: 680mgSugar: 16g
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