Bacon-Wrapped Smokies Appetizer (Printable Version)

Mini cocktail sausages wrapped in crispy bacon with a sweet, caramelized brown sugar glaze. Perfect party appetizer.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 24 mini cocktail sausages (12 oz)
02 - 12 slices bacon (8 oz), cut in half

→ Glaze

03 - 1/2 cup brown sugar
04 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
05 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
02 - Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise to create 24 pieces.
03 - Wrap each cocktail sausage with a half-slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick.
04 - Place bacon-wrapped smokies seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
05 - In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cayenne pepper if using.
06 - Sprinkle brown sugar mixture evenly over smokies. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for extra caramelization if desired.
07 - Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until bacon is crisp and glaze is bubbling. For extra crispiness, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
08 - Cool slightly before serving. Present warm with toothpicks for easy handling.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Three ingredients create a salty-sweet combination that vanishes from the platter in minutes.
  • The bacon crisps up beautifully while the sugar caramelizes into a glossy, sticky glaze that clings to every bite.
  • You can prep these ahead and bake them right before guests arrive, filling your home with an irresistible aroma.
  • Even picky eaters and kids reach for seconds, making it a universally loved party snack.
02 -
  • Don't skip lining the baking sheet because the sugar will harden into a stubborn, sticky mess that's nearly impossible to scrub off.
  • Arrange the smokies with a little space between them so the bacon crisps evenly instead of steaming in its own fat.
  • Let them cool for at least 3 minutes after baking or the glaze will be molten hot and burn your tongue instantly.
03 -
  • Use a wire rack set inside the baking sheet to let the bacon fat drip away, resulting in even crispier bacon all around.
  • If the sugar starts to burn before the bacon crisps, tent the pan loosely with foil and finish baking at a slightly lower temperature.
  • For a holiday twist, add a tiny sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme under the bacon before wrapping for a subtle herbal note.
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