Pin it
Sweet and savory bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages make the ultimate party appetizer. These caramelized brown sugar bites combine crispy bacon with juicy Little Smokies for an irresistible combination that guests can't stop eating.
Every time these appear at gatherings, they're devoured within minutes. A double batch is essential - these addictive bites will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Key Ingredients
- Cocktail sausages: select high-quality Little Smokies
- Bacon slices: standard thickness works best
- Brown sugar: light or dark variety
- Wooden toothpicks: for assembly
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cut bacon into thirds - just enough to wrap each sausage once with minimal overlap
- Step 2:
- Wrap sausages and secure with toothpicks, placing seam down on lined baking sheet
- Step 3:
- Coat generously with brown sugar for proper caramelization
- Step 4:
- Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping once halfway. Monitor closely to prevent burning
- Step 5:
- Cool 5 minutes to allow sugar coating to set before serving
Pin it
The key technique is pressing brown sugar firmly onto each wrapped sausage before baking - this ensures perfect caramelization.
Temperature Tips
Maintain 350°F throughout cooking. Higher temps risk burning the sugar while lower temps prevent proper crisping.
Prep-Ahead Method
Assemble and sugar-coat up to 24 hours ahead. Store covered in refrigerator and bake just before serving.
Serving Strategy
For larger gatherings, cook in staggered batches to ensure hot, fresh servings throughout the event.
Recipe Variations
Enhance flavors by adding cayenne pepper for heat or cracked black pepper for extra seasoning.
Pin it
This foolproof appetizer combines simple ingredients into an impressive dish that's perfectly balanced between sweet and savory flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I get the bacon crispy?
- Turn on the broiler during the last few minutes of baking to crisp up the bacon.
- → Can these be prepped earlier?
- Sure thing! Wrap the smokies with bacon and keep them in the fridge. Add the sugar and bake when you're ready.
- → Why should I dry the sausages?
- Drying them makes the bacon stick better and helps everything cook evenly.
- → What if I only have thick bacon?
- Thin bacon is better for even cooking, but if you're using thick bacon, try cutting it thinner or cooking it longer.
- → Are toothpicks necessary for this recipe?
- Yes, they'll keep your bacon in place while baking and make serving easier too.