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Easy Candied Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies

bacon wrapped little smokies - featured image

Sweet, salty, smoky, and sticky little smokies wrapped in bacon and coated in brown sugar, baked to caramelized perfection. The ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (14 ounces) little smokies sausages
  • 1 pound thin-cut bacon
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)
  • Wooden toothpicks (soaked in water for 10 minutes)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top if using. If not, spray the foil lightly with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Cut the bacon into thirds, making pieces about 2 to 3 inches long.
  3. Wrap one piece of bacon around each little smokie, overlapping slightly, and secure with a toothpick through the overlap. Place on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.
  4. Pour the brown sugar into a small bowl. If using cayenne or smoked paprika, mix into the sugar. Roll each wrapped smokie in the brown sugar until evenly coated. Place back on the baking sheet, toothpick side up.
  5. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. At the 15-minute mark, check and tent with foil if browning too quickly. At 20 minutes, watch closely until bacon is crispy and sugar is bubbling and caramelized.
  6. Remove from oven and let cool on the pan for 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm.

Notes

For best results, use thin-cut bacon and fresh, soft brown sugar. A wire rack helps the bacon crisp on all sides. If using thick-cut bacon, par-cook it first. For a quicker version, use an air fryer at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: candied bacon wrapped smokies, brown sugar bacon wrapped little smokies, easy appetizer, party food, game day snack