Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies appetizer on a serving platter

Why Make This Recipe

Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies are perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a cozy night at home. These little bites are a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. The bacon gets crispy and the brown sugar creates a sweet glaze, making them irresistible. They are easy to make and sure to please both kids and adults alike!

How to Make Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies

Ingredients

1 package Little Smokies: mini smoked sausages that provide the savory base.
1 package regular-cut bacon: cut in half to wrap each sausage and add a salty, crispy bite.
1 cup brown sugar: caramelizes during baking for a sweet glaze.
Black pepper (optional): adds a mild kick to balance the sweetness.

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
Cut bacon slices in half to make shorter pieces for wrapping.
Wrap each Little Smokie in a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
Place brown sugar in a zip-top bag. Add several bacon-wrapped smokies and gently shake to coat.
Arrange the coated smokies on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Sprinkle any leftover brown sugar on top, and optionally, a dash of black pepper.
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until bacon is crispy and sugar is caramelized.
For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes while watching closely.
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies

You can serve Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies as an appetizer or snack. They are great on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating. You can also pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce or ranch dressing.

How to Store Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies

To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving again.

Tips to Make Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies

Make sure to cut the bacon slices in half evenly for better wrapping.
Use a non-stick baking sheet or add foil to prevent sticking.
If you want more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mix.

Variation

You can try using turkey bacon or maple bacon for a different flavor. Mixing in some BBQ sauce with the brown sugar can also give a tasty twist!

FAQs

Can I make these in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the bacon-wrapped smokies the night before and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of Little Smokies?
You can use other mini sausages or even make your own using chopped chicken or turkey.

How do I know when they are done?
They are done when the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar is caramelized; you can check if they look golden brown.