Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about gathering around a tray of sizzling, bacon-wrapped treats fresh out of the oven. Whether it’s a holiday party, game day, or a casual get-together, these Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies have a way of disappearing before you know it. I remember the first time I made them for a family gathering—within minutes, the tray was empty, and I wished I had doubled the batch!

What makes this recipe perfect for beginners is its simplicity and foolproof execution. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a party appetizer that tastes gourmet without the hassle. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the event rather than being stuck in the kitchen.

Why This Recipe is Special

• Only Three Main Ingredients – No complicated seasonings or cooking techniques required.
• Bite-Sized and Irresistible – Perfect for parties, these smoky, crispy bites are always a hit.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep them in advance and bake when needed.
• Customizable – Sweet, spicy, or savory—adjust the flavors to your liking!

Ingredients and Preparation

Essential Ingredients:

• Little Smokies Sausages – These small, smoked cocktail sausages bring a rich, meaty flavor.
• Bacon – Provides a crispy, salty contrast to the smoky sausages.
• Brown Sugar – Caramelizes in the oven, adding a subtle sweetness that balances the saltiness of the bacon.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations:

• Maple Syrup or Honey – Swap brown sugar for a drizzle of maple syrup for a more complex sweetness.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to balance the sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Option – Ensure your sausages are certified gluten-free.
• Turkey Bacon – A leaner alternative if you want a slightly healthier version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Cut each strip of bacon into thirds to match the size of the little smokies.

Step 3: Wrap each little smokie with a piece of bacon and secure it with a toothpick to prevent it from unraveling while baking.

Step 4: Roll each bacon-wrapped smokie in brown sugar, ensuring an even coating. This step gives the perfect balance of sweetness and crispiness.

Step 5: Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow air circulation for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crisp and caramelized. If you want extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Let them cool slightly before serving (hot caramelized sugar can burn!), then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Prevent Sticking: Use parchment paper or a greased wire rack to ensure the bacon crisps evenly without sticking.
• For Even Cooking: Try not to overlap bacon-wrapped smokies on the tray. Give them enough space.
• Sweet & Spicy Balance: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar or mix it with a teaspoon of chili powder.
• Prep Ahead: Assemble the smokies a day before and refrigerate. When ready, bake straight from the fridge!
• Extra Crispiness Tip: Use thin-cut bacon for the best crispy texture. Thick-cut bacon takes longer to cook and may not crisp up as well.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these bacon-wrapped little smokies with some delicious dipping sauces to enhance the flavors:

• Honey Mustard – A tangy-sweet combo that complements the smoky flavor.
• Spicy Sriracha Mayo – Adds a creamy, spicy touch.
• BBQ Sauce – A classic pairing for extra smokiness.

For a complete party spread, serve them alongside:

• Corn on the Cob – A buttery, sweet contrast.
• Buffalo Chicken Dip – A creamy, spicy crowd-pleaser.
• Loaded Potato Skins – Another classic, cheesy appetizer to round out your snack table.

Conclusion

These Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are the ultimate easy party appetizer. With minimal prep, a short ingredient list, and a guaranteed crowd-pleasing taste, they’re the perfect recipe for beginner cooks who want to impress without the stress.

Try them out and let me know how they turned out in the comments! What’s your favorite variation—extra spicy, extra sweet, or maybe even wrapped in turkey bacon? Share your thoughts and enjoy your next gathering with this easy, irresistible appetizer!

FAQ About Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

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