Introduction
Welcome, home cooks! Few appetizers are as effortlessly spectacular as Sweet Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies. Imagine succulent mini sausages, lovingly embraced by crispy, savory bacon, all glazed in a sticky, sweet brown sugar caramel. This irresistible combination of salty, sweet, and smoky is perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or any cozy night in. Get ready to impress with minimal fuss!
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients for this crowd-pleaser is a breeze. You’ll need just a few simple items that pack a big flavor punch.
* 1 pound (about 40) little smokies (mini smoked sausages), drained
* 1 pound thin-cut bacon (about 12-16 slices), cut into thirds
* ½ cup packed light brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional, for extra richness)
* ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)
* Wooden toothpicks, soaked in water for 30 minutes (to prevent burning)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing these delectable bites is straightforward, even for novice cooks. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, then place an oven-safe wire rack on top. This ensures crispy bacon.
2. Wrap the Smokies: Take each little smokie and wrap it snugly with a piece of bacon. Secure with a pre-soaked toothpick. Arrange the wrapped smokies in a single layer on the prepared wire rack.
3. Sugar Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar. If using, stir in the melted butter and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over all the bacon-wrapped smokies. Don’t be shy!
4. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and golden brown, and the sugar has melted into a bubbly, caramelized glaze. Keep a close eye to prevent burning the sugar.
5. Serve: Carefully remove from the oven. Let them cool on the rack for a few minutes; the glaze will be extremely hot and sticky. Serve warm, directly from the rack or transferred to a platter.
Expert Tips
Achieving appetizer perfection is all about the details. Here are a few expert tips to elevate your Sweet Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies.
* Bacon Choice: Opt for thin-cut bacon. Thick-cut takes longer to crisp and might overcook the smokies. Applewood smoked bacon adds extra flavor.
* The Rack is Key: Don’t skip the wire rack! It’s essential for allowing fat to drip away and ensures every side of the bacon crisps up beautifully.
* Soaking Toothpicks: Soaking wooden toothpicks prevents them from charring or burning in the oven, keeping your presentation pristine.
* Watch the Sugar: Brown sugar can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt quickly. Keep a watchful eye, especially towards the end of baking. Loosely tent with foil if browning too fast.
* Make Ahead (Partially): You can wrap the smokies with bacon and secure with toothpicks up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator. Add brown sugar just before baking.
Variations
While the classic version is undeniably delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with these tempting variations.
* Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding a pinch more cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or red pepper flakes over the top before baking.
* Maple Glaze: Replace a portion of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a richer sweetness. A ratio of ¼ cup brown sugar to ¼ cup maple syrup works wonderfully.
* Herbal Twist: For a savory-sweet profile, finely chop fresh rosemary or thyme and sprinkle it over the smokies along with the brown sugar.
* Cheese Inclusion: Before wrapping, slice a small piece of cheddar or smoked gouda and place it with the smokie inside the bacon for a gooey, cheesy surprise.
Conclusion
Sweet Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are more than just an appetizer; they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that embodies comfort and indulgence. With their tantalizing blend of crispy, savory, and sweet, these bites are sure to be the star of any gathering. Simple to make yet sophisticated in flavor, they prove that the best dishes don’t have to be complicated. Go ahead, whip up a batch, and watch them disappear. Happy cooking!
