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Easy Bacon Wrapped Smokies: Best Brown Sugar Glaze Appetizer

bacon wrapped smokies - featured image

Little smoked sausages wrapped in bacon and coated in a brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into a sticky-sweet, irresistible appetizer. Perfect for game days, parties, or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (14 oz) little smoked sausages (e.g., Hillshire Farm Lit’l Smokies)
  • 1 pound thin-cut bacon
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Cut the bacon strips into thirds crosswise, each piece about 2-3 inches long.
  3. Wrap each little smokie with a piece of bacon, overlapping the ends slightly. Secure with a toothpick pushed through the overlap. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about an inch apart.
  4. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup packed brown sugar with 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter. Stir until it forms a thick, sandy paste.
  5. Using your fingers or a small spoon, press about a teaspoon of the brown sugar mixture onto each bacon-wrapped smokie, pressing it in so it sticks.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar has melted into a sticky, caramelized glaze.
  7. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter. The glaze will thicken slightly as it cools.

Notes

For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture. To make ahead, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate; add 5 minutes to baking time. For air fryer, cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to crisp bacon.

Nutrition

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