Bacon brown sugar smokies are the ultimate crowd pleasing appetizer. These savory bites are wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in sweet brown sugar, making them perfect for game day or any gathering. Plus, they’re simple to whip up, ensuring you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying with family and friends.
Table of Contents
Bacon Brown Sugar Smokies Recipe – The Ultimate Party Appetizer
Ingredients for Bacon Brown Sugar Smokies
Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful treat:
- 1 (14 oz) package of ‘lil smokies cocktail links
- 1 lb maple flavored bacon, cut into thirds
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground chipotle pepper or ancho chili powder
- Toothpicks
- Barbecue sauce for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Smokies
Follow these easy steps to create your bacon brown sugar smokies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil sprayed with cooking spray.
- Remove the smokies from their packaging and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Wrap each smokie with a piece of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
- In a gallon-sized bag, combine the brown sugar and ground chipotle pepper.
- Add the bacon-wrapped smokies to the bag, seal it, and shake until they are evenly coated with the brown sugar mixture. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden.
- Serve immediately with barbecue sauce or honey mustard for dipping.
Tips for Making the Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Smokies
To achieve the best results, consider these tips:
- For a flavor twist, try using classic smoked bacon instead of maple flavored bacon.
- Wrap the smokies a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Toss with the brown sugar mixture right before baking.
- For easier cleanup, line the baking sheet with foil sprayed with cooking spray.
Suggested Variations and Substitutions
You can easily customize your bacon brown sugar smokies:
- Substitute the ‘lil smokies with beef, pork, or turkey smokies.
- Adjust the spice level by omitting or altering the amount of chipotle pepper; try cayenne pepper or dark chili powder for heat instead.
- For dipping, consider options like hot honey, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, or honey mustard.
Storage Tips for Leftovers and Make-Ahead Options
Storing your leftovers is easy and they can be enjoyed later:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- If making ahead, wrap the smokies with bacon and flash freeze in a single layer before storing in a freezer bag.
- Thaw in the fridge and coat with the brown sugar mixture before baking.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for bacon brown sugar smokies?
You will need ‘lil smokies cocktail links, maple flavored bacon, light brown sugar, ground chipotle pepper or ancho chili powder, toothpicks, and barbecue sauce for serving.
How do I cook bacon brown sugar smokies in the oven?
To cook them, preheat the oven to 350°F, wrap the smokies in bacon, coat in brown sugar, and bake on a lined baking sheet for 30 minutes until crispy.
Can I prepare bacon brown sugar smokies ahead of time?
Yes, you can wrap the smokies a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Toss them in brown sugar before baking.
What are some dipping sauces that pair well with bacon brown sugar smokies?
Great options include barbecue sauce, hot honey, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, or honey mustard.
How can I make bacon brown sugar smokies spicier?
You can increase the spice by adding more chipotle pepper, or substitute with cayenne pepper or dark chili powder for added heat.
Related Recipes to try
- Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
- Irresistible Million Dollar Bacon Deviled
- Crack Burgers
- Crack Breakfast Casserole
- Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Conclusion
Bacon brown sugar smokies are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Their crispy, sweet, and savory flavor profile makes them a fantastic addition to any gathering. For more mouthwatering ideas, check out this Pinterest page for creative inspiration and delicious recipes that are sure to impress.
Bacon Brown Sugar Smokies: Irresistibly Sweet and Savory
Equipment
- oven
- baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- Toothpicks
- Gallon-sized bag
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) package ‘lil smokies cocktail links
- 1 lb maple flavored bacon, cut into thirds
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground chipotle pepper or ancho chili powder
- Toothpicks
- Barbecue sauce for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Pat the smokies dry with a paper towel.
- Wrap each smokie with bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Combine brown sugar and chipotle pepper in a bag, add smokies, seal, and shake to coat.
- Place coated smokies on the baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes until crispy.
- Serve immediately with barbecue sauce or honey mustard.
