Get ready to transform your appetizer game with the most addictive, mouth-watering bite-sized treat that will have your guests begging for the recipe! These Bacon and Brown Sugar Little Smokies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and crispy in one incredible package. Whether you're hosting a game day party, holiday gathering, or just craving an indulgent snack, these little flavor bombs are guaranteed to steal the show and leave everyone coming back for more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package little smokies (about 14 oz)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 lb bacon, cut into thirds
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top to allow excess grease to drain during cooking.
- Open the package of little smokies and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the bacon will adhere properly.
- Cut the bacon strips into thirds, creating smaller pieces that will wrap around each little smokie.
- Take each little smokie and wrap a piece of bacon around it, securing with a toothpick if needed to keep the bacon in place.
- Place the bacon-wrapped smokies on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Sprinkle brown sugar generously over each bacon-wrapped smokie, coating them completely.
- If using BBQ sauce, lightly brush or drizzle over the brown sugar-coated smokies for additional flavor.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar has caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes to allow the caramelized sugar to set.
- Transfer to a serving platter, removing toothpicks if used, and serve warm as an appetizer or party snack.
Tips
- Pat the little smokies completely dry before wrapping to ensure the bacon adheres perfectly and crisps up nicely.
- Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and ensure each smokie is fully wrapped for maximum flavor.
- Use a wire rack on your baking sheet to allow excess grease to drain, keeping your appetizers crispy instead of soggy.
- Don't skip the brown sugar - it caramelizes beautifully and creates an irresistible sweet-savory coating.
- Watch closely in the last 5-10 minutes of baking to prevent burning, as the sugar can quickly go from caramelized to burnt.
- Let the smokies rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the caramelized sugar to set and become deliciously sticky.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
