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Best Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies with Brown Sugar Glaze

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These crispy bacon-wrapped little smokies with brown sugar glaze are the perfect sweet-and-savory appetizer. Quick to make with just three main ingredients, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (14-ounce) packages little smokies (cocktail sausages)
  • 1 pound regular-cut bacon (not thick-cut)
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • Black pepper (optional, to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, substitute for part of brown sugar)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack inside a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
  2. Par-cook the bacon: Lay bacon strips on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Cook on high for 2-3 minutes until partially cooked but still flexible. Alternatively, cook in a skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes per side. Let cool slightly, then blot with fresh paper towels to remove excess grease.
  3. Cut each bacon strip into three equal pieces (about 24-30 pieces total).
  4. Wrap each little smokie with a piece of bacon, overlapping slightly. Place seam-side down on the wire rack. Use a toothpick to secure if needed.
  5. Pour brown sugar into a shallow bowl. Roll each wrapped smokie in the brown sugar, pressing gently to adhere. Place back on the wire rack, seam-side down.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bacon is crispy and sugar forms a bubbly, caramelized glaze. Check at 15 minutes; if browning too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
  7. Let cool on the rack for 5 minutes to allow glaze to set.
  8. Serve warm. Remove toothpicks if used.

Notes

Par-cooking the bacon prevents soggy bottoms. Use regular-cut bacon for best results. Space smokies on the rack to ensure even crisping. Watch the sugar to prevent burning. For a spicier version, add cayenne to the brown sugar. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped smokies, little smokies, brown sugar glaze, appetizer, party food, game day snack

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