Name: Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Smokies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (14-ounce) package little smokies (cocktail sausages); 12 slices regular-cut bacon (cut into thirds); 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for drizzle)

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Introduction

Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies are a deliciously sweet and savory appetizer that’s easy to make with just a few ingredients. These bite-sized treats combine smoky cocktail sausages with crispy bacon and a caramelized brown sugar glaze, perfect for parties or game day.

A white rectangular plate is filled with a neat pile of small, golden-brown bacon-wrapped sausages, each piece skewered with small wooden sticks. The bacon looks crispy and shiny with a glazy finish, showing slight caramelization and texture from the grill. Fresh green lettuce leaves are placed on both sides of the plate for garnish. In the background, there is a small white dish with red sauce and a blurred glass of amber-colored liquid. The whole setup rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (14-ounce) package little smokies (cocktail sausages)
12 slices regular-cut bacon, cut into thirds
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon maple syrup (for drizzle)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F–400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, and place a wire rack on top if you want crispier bacon.
Step 2: Cut each slice of bacon into thirds to create perfect-sized pieces for wrapping.
Step 3: Wrap one piece of bacon around each little smokie. Secure with a toothpick if needed, and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet or rack.
Step 4: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over each wrapped smokie, coating generously. For extra coverage, roll each one in a bowl of brown sugar before placing them on the pan.
Step 5: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bacon is fully cooked and the brown sugar has melted and caramelized.
Step 6: For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 7: Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. The glaze will thicken slightly as it sets. Drizzle with maple syrup just before serving for added flavor.

Tips & Variations

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper to the brown sugar for a subtle spicy kick.
Use thick-cut bacon for a meatier bite, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Try using flavored maple syrup, like bourbon or vanilla, for a unique twist.
For a smokier flavor, use smoked sausage or add a few drops of liquid smoke to the brown sugar.

Storage

Store leftover bacon wrapped smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this may make the bacon soggy.

How to Serve

A white plate holds several small, round appetizers wrapped tightly in crispy, shiny bacon with a reddish-brown color. Each one is skewered with a small wooden stick and arranged in a slightly piled-up manner in the center of the plate. On both sides of the plate, bright green lettuce leaves add a fresh touch. In the background, there is a blurred glass of an orange drink and a small white dish with red dipping sauce, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can wrap the smokies in bacon and sprinkle the brown sugar the night before. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

What can I use instead of little smokies?

If little smokies are not available, you can use cocktail sausages, mini sausages, or cut regular sausages into bite-sized pieces.