Description
Brown sugar bacon little smokies are an easy, crowd-pleasing party appetizer featuring juicy sausages wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a caramelized brown sugar glaze. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or any occasion where you want a sweet and savory snack that disappears fast.
Ingredients
- 1 package (14 oz) little smokies sausages (beef or pork)
- 12 oz regular-cut bacon (about 10–12 slices)
- 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Toothpicks
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place a wire rack on top if available.
- Cut each strip of bacon into thirds (about 2.5 inches each).
- Wrap each little smokie with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick through the middle.
- In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, black pepper, cayenne, and garlic powder (if using).
- Roll each bacon-wrapped smokie in the sugar mixture, pressing gently to help it stick. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet or rack.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, checking at 20 minutes and rotating the tray if needed. For extra crispy bacon, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely.
- Let smokies cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to firm up.
Notes
For best results, use regular-cut bacon and avoid overlapping too much for crispiness. You can prep these up to 24 hours ahead and bake just before serving. For a spicy twist, add chili powder or hot sauce to the sugar mix. Turkey bacon or vegetarian sausages can be substituted. Don’t overcrowd the pan for even cooking. Leftovers keep for 3 days in the fridge and can be reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 3 smokies per serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7
- Sodium: 480
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Protein: 6
Keywords: brown sugar bacon little smokies, party appetizer, bacon-wrapped smokies, easy appetizer, game day snacks, sweet and savory, finger food