Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing party appetizer that’s both sweet and savory, look no further than Bacon Wrapped Smokies Brown Sugar! This recipe is a game-changer, combining crispy bacon, juicy cocktail sausages, and a generous coating of brown sugar that caramelizes to perfection. Every bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that will have your guests coming back for more.

I first discovered the magic of Bacon Wrapped Smokies Brown Sugar at a family gathering, and it quickly became a must-have at every event. The irresistible combination of salty bacon and sweet brown sugar is simply unbeatable. The way the brown sugar forms a sticky, caramelized crust on the bacon is pure perfection, making it a dish that disappears within minutes of hitting the table.

These delectable bites store well in the fridge, making them a fantastic make-ahead option for parties or gatherings. Just pop them in the oven or air fryer for a quick reheat, and they’ll be as crispy and delicious as when you first made them. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, a game day get-together, or just craving a flavorful treat, Bacon Wrapped Smokies Brown Sugar is sure to be a hit with everyone.

Quick Benefits

• Perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors
• Easy to make and a crowd-pleaser at parties
• Can be made ahead and stored for convenience
• Versatile recipe with options for ingredient substitutions

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar Recipe

• Perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors in every bite
• Irresistible appetizer that disappears fast at parties
• Sticky caramel crust on the bacon from the bubbling brown sugar
• Great for holidays, game days, or any gathering
• Easy to make ahead and bake right before guests arrive
• Can store in the fridge and reheat for up to three days
• Versatile recipe – can swap ingredients like turkey bacon or different types of bacon
• Classic party food that’s a nostalgic treat for many
• Crowd-pleaser that steals the spotlight at any occasion
• Simple to prepare with minimal ingredients and steps

Ingredients for Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar

Main Components

• 450 grams bacon, sliced into thirds
• 450 grams cocktail sausages (lil’ smokies)

Sauce and Topping

• 115 grams unsalted butter
• 420 grams brown sugar, divided

Pro Tips for Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar

Pro Tip 1: To ensure the bacon stays in place while baking, place the wrapped smokies with the bacon seams facing down in the baking dish. For extra security, you can also use toothpicks to hold them together.

Pro Tip 2: For convenience, assemble the bacon wrapped smokies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. This allows you to prep in advance and ensures the best texture when served hot and fresh.

Pro Tip 3: Opt for regular sliced bacon for easier wrapping and thorough crisping in the oven. When baking, pour the butter-brown sugar sauce over the smokies before sprinkling additional sugar on top. This will help create a caramelized coating that adds extra flavor and texture.

How to Make Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 190°C.

Step 2: Prepare Bacon and Sausages

Cut bacon into thirds. Wrap each cocktail sausage with a piece of bacon, securing seam-side down as necessary.

Step 3: Arrange in Baking Dish

Arrange the bacon-wrapped sausages in a large baking dish in a single layer.

Step 4: Prepare Butter-Sugar Glaze

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and stir in 210 grams (1 cup) of brown sugar until dissolved and well combined.

Step 5: Add Sauce

Evenly pour the melted butter and brown sugar mixture over the wrapped sausages.

Step 6: Add Remaining Brown Sugar

Sprinkle the remaining 210 grams (1 cup) of brown sugar evenly on top.

Step 7: Bake

Bake at 205°C for an additional 5–8 minutes until bacon is crisp and caramelized.

Storage Tips

After making the irresistible bacon wrapped smokies with brown sugar, store any leftovers properly to enjoy them later. These appetizers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture and flavor, it is recommended to reheat them in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes to crisp the bacon back up before serving.

For convenient party planning, you can assemble the bacon wrapped smokies ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to one day before baking. This allows you to have them ready to pop in the oven just before your guests arrive, ensuring they are served fresh and delicious. Consider making a double batch as these sweet and salty treats tend to disappear quickly, making them a popular choice for any gathering or celebration.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to lighten up this dish, consider using turkey bacon as a substitute for regular bacon. While it may not crisp up as much, it provides a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. Alternatively, you can enhance the smoky flavor by using maple or hickory smoked bacon for an extra layer of taste.

If you cannot find cocktail sausages, you can use sliced cooked Kielbasa or cocktail hot dogs as a replacement. These alternatives will still provide the savory element that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the size and thickness of the substitute ingredient.

Experimenting with different types of mustard or ketchup can elevate the flavor profile of this dish. Consider serving them with a spicy Dijon mustard or a tangy barbecue sauce for a unique twist. The condiments you choose can customize the overall taste to suit your preferences or complement other dishes served alongside the bacon wrapped smokies.

Serving Suggestions

These irresistible bacon wrapped smokies with brown sugar are the perfect addition to any party spread. For a creative serving suggestion, try presenting them on a wooden board garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive touch. You can also drizzle a balsamic glaze over the top before serving to add a tangy contrast to the sweet and salty flavors.

To elevate the presentation even further, serve these bacon wrapped smokies in individual shot glasses filled with a dollop of spicy mustard or a hint of sriracha mayo at the bottom. This not only adds a fun and elegant twist but also makes them easy to grab and enjoy while mingling with guests.

FAQs for Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar

Can I make bacon wrapped smokies with brown sugar ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate them up to one day ahead. Bake just before serving for the best texture.

What type of bacon should I use for this recipe?

It’s recommended to use regular sliced bacon for easier wrapping and thorough crisping in the oven.

How do I know when the bacon wrapped smokies are ready?

They’re ready when the bacon is deep golden and crispy, and the sugar has caramelized nicely.

Can I use an alternative to lil’ smokies for this recipe?

If little smokies are not available, you can try using sliced cooked Kielbasa or cocktail hot dogs as a substitute.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bacon Wrapped Smokies Brown Sugar is a must-try recipe that never fails to impress. The sweet and savory combination of brown sugar, crispy bacon, and juicy smokies creates a flavor explosion that will have your guests coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a party, a game day get-together, or simply treating your loved ones, these little bites of heaven are sure to be a hit.

Remember, the beauty of Bacon Wrapped Smokies Brown Sugar lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily make them ahead of time, experiment with different types of bacon, or even try alternative sausages to suit your preferences. So, next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to make and impossible to resist, look no further than these addictive Bacon Wrapped Smokies Brown Sugar. Your taste buds – and your guests – will thank you!