Sweet, Smoky, and Irresistible: Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies

Looking for a perfect appetizer that everyone will rave about? Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies are the ultimate sweet and savory bite-sized treat, ideal for game day, parties, or holiday gatherings. These delightful sausage bites, wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in brown sugar, will satisfy all your cravings. Easy to make with just a few ingredients, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes and Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 (14-ounce) package of Little Smokies sausages
• 1 pound bacon, cut into thirds
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• Toothpicks (for securing the bacon)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Cut the Bacon: Cut each strip of bacon into thirds. This will make it easier to wrap each Little Smokie.

Step 2: Wrap the Little Smokies

1. Wrap the Smokies: Take one Little Smokie and wrap it tightly with a piece of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick.
2. Repeat: Continue until all Little Smokies are wrapped in bacon and secured with toothpicks.

Step 3: Coat with Brown Sugar

1. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place each bacon-wrapped Smokie on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Add Brown Sugar: Generously sprinkle brown sugar over each Smokie. Make sure to coat them well, as the sugar will caramelize during baking.
3. Optional Spice: For a sweet and spicy flavor, sprinkle cayenne pepper over the brown sugar-coated Smokies.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar is bubbly.
2. Cool and Serve: Let the Smokies cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Notes and Tips

• Crispy Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, you can broil the Smokies for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
• Baking Rack: If you prefer less greasy results, place the wrapped Smokies on a wire rack set over the baking sheet. This allows excess fat to drain while baking.
• Cleanup Tip: Lining the baking sheet with parchment or foil makes cleanup a breeze, as the caramelized sugar can be sticky.

Variations

• Maple-Glazed: Substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup for a rich, sweet glaze.
• Honey Mustard Smokies: Mix honey and mustard together, and brush it over the bacon-wrapped Smokies before baking for a tangy twist.
• Spicy BBQ Smokies: Add a drizzle of your favorite BBQ sauce over the Smokies before sprinkling with brown sugar for an extra smoky flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time! Wrap the Smokies in bacon and secure with toothpicks. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply sprinkle with brown sugar and bake as directed.

Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative, though it may not crisp up as much as regular bacon. You may need to bake it a few minutes longer to achieve a similar texture.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick snack.

Can I Use Other Types of Sausages?

Yes, you can use different types of sausages such as cocktail sausages or even cut-up kielbasa. Just be sure to adjust the bacon size and cooking time accordingly.

Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies are the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors that make for an irresistible appetizer or snack. Whether you’re hosting a party, a game-day gathering, or simply looking for an indulgent treat, these bacon-wrapped delights are sure to be a hit. With easy-to-follow instructions, minimal ingredients, and options for customization, you can’t go wrong with this recipe. Try out the variations and find your favorite twist on this classic dish!

Did you try this recipe? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!