There’s something magical about the combination of crispy bacon and sweet flavors, especially when you dive into nostalgic snacks like these smokies. Whenever I whip up a batch of bacon-wrapped brown sugar smokies, the aroma that fills my kitchen makes my heart race with excitement. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, these little bites are always a hit. With minimal effort and only a handful of ingredients, you can create an irresistible treat that will have everyone returning for more.
These bacon-wrapped smokies stand out not just for their flavors but also for their delightful texture. The salty, crunchy bacon enveloping the tender, juicy smokies, combined with the sweet caramelization from brown sugar and honey, makes for an indulgent experience. It’s a party food legend, but it’s also a great comfort food for those chill evenings when you want something delicious at home.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick to prepare and bake, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Rich flavors that combine sweet and savory in each bite.
- Few dishes to wash, because everything cooks in one pan.
- Freezer-friendly; make them ahead and bake when needed.
- Budget-friendly with simple, common ingredients.
"Easier than I thought, and they tasted amazing!"
Step-by-step overview
Making bacon-wrapped smokies is simple and straightforward. First, you preheat the oven, prepare the bacon and smokies, then make a sweet glaze with brown sugar, honey, garlic powder, and black pepper. After wrapping and baking, you’ll have crispy, caramelized bites that everyone will love.
What you’ll need
- 1 pound of bacon
- 1 package of cocktail weenies (smokies)
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of honey
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for an even crispier texture.
- Smokies: Kielbasa or other small sausages can also work if you want a change of flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar can be used; dark offers a deeper flavor.
- Honey: Maple syrup can be an excellent substitute for a different sweetness profile.
How to make it
Creating bacon-wrapped brown sugar smokies is as simple as it gets. You’ll need just a few steps to pull together this delightful treat. What you’ll achieve are smokies that burst with flavor and leave you craving more.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut each bacon strip in half. Wrap each cocktail weenie with a half strip of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Place the wrapped smokies in a baking dish and pour the brown sugar mixture over them.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized, turning them halfway through.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Pro Tip: Make sure to line your baking dish with foil for easier cleanup!
You’ll know your smokies are done when the bacon is crispy and caramelized, with a heavenly aroma wafting through your home.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use toothpicks that are sturdy enough to hold the wrapped bacon in place as they cook.
- If you prefer extra crispiness, broil them for an additional couple of minutes at the end.
- For a spicy twist, sprinkle some cayenne pepper in the brown sugar mixture.
Serving suggestions
Enjoy these smokies straight from the oven as they are, or serve them with a mixture of sweet and spicy dipping sauces. A side of fresh vegetables or a simple salad can balance out the richness, making it a well-rounded snack experience.
Storage & reheating tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness—put them back in at 350°F until warmed through. For longer storage, you can also freeze them before baking. Just ensure to cook them from frozen—or let them thaw overnight in the fridge first.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
- Dry bacon: If your bacon feels dry after baking, you may have overcooked it. Reduce your baking time slightly on your next attempt.
- Soggy bacon: If it doesn’t crisp up, try giving it more space between each piece. Ensuring even airflow is crucial.
- Burnt sugar: Keep an eye on the baking process; the sugar can caramelize quickly, so turning them part way helps.
Recipe variations
Feel free to play around with the flavor profile for your smokies. You can swap out the honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness spectrum. Additionally, adding a sprinkle of chili powder or hot sauce to the brown sugar mixture can inject some heat into your bites.
Common questions
Can I make bacon-wrapped smokies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time, wrap the smokies, and stash them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This can save time on the day of your event.
Are there vegetarian options?
You can use vegetarian sausage or even veggies like mushrooms or tofu. They might require different cooking times, so keep an eye on texture.
What can I serve them with?
Your beloved smokies pair well with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a spicy mustard dip. Fresh veggies also provide a nice crunchy contrast.
How long do they take to cook?
They usually take about 20-25 minutes in the oven at 350°F until the bacon is crispy. However, keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Can I freeze these?
Absolutely! After cooking, let them cool completely before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the oven until warmed through.
If you have any parties or get-togethers on your horizon, don’t hesitate; whip out this bacon-wrapped brown sugar smokies recipe and indulge your guests with these time-tested delights!
Bacon-Wrapped Brown Sugar Smokies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut each bacon strip in half. Wrap each cocktail weenie with a half strip of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Place the wrapped smokies in a baking dish and pour the brown sugar mixture over them.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized, turning them halfway through.
- Serve warm and enjoy!