When it comes to party snacks, few things rival the popularity of Brown Sugar Bacon Smokies. Often called “Meat Candy,” these bite-sized treats are a Minimal-Prep Party Snack that delivers maximum impact. It is a simple equation: smoked sausage wrapped in salty bacon and baked in brown sugar. The sugar melts and caramelizes around the bacon, creating a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze that is addictively delicious. They are the first thing to disappear at any Super Bowl party, holiday gathering, or potluck.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
3-Ingredient Magic
You only need three ingredients: sausages, bacon, and brown sugar. Anything else is just a bonus. This simplicity makes shopping easy and prep a breeze. You don’t need to measure precisely; you just need to wrap and bake. It is foolproof cooking that makes you look like a culinary genius.
Prepare Ahead
The best part about this recipe is that it can (and should) be prepped ahead. You can wrap the sausages and coat them in sugar the night before. Letting them sit in the fridge allows the sugar to start dissolving into the bacon, resulting in an even better glaze when baked. Just pop the tray in the oven when guests arrive.
Ingredients
- 1 package Lit’l Smokies sausages (14oz)
- 1 lb bacon (standard cut)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
- Cut bacon strips into thirds. Wrap each sausage in bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Place on baking sheet and sprinkle generously with brown sugar and cayenne.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes until bacon is crisp. Transfer immediately to a platter.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
- Little Smokies: These cocktail sausages are pre-cooked and the perfect size.
- Bacon: Use standard cut bacon. Thick cut takes too long to crisp, and thin cheap bacon can dissolve. Standard is best. Cut slices into thirds.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark works, but dark gives a deeper molasses flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper (Optional): Highly recommended for a “kick” to balance the sweet.
Smart Substitutions
- Sausage: If you can’t find smokies, cut hot dogs into 2-inch chunks.
- Bacon: Turkey bacon can be used but won’t get as crispy or savory.
- Glaze: Maple syrup or BBQ sauce can be added to the sugar for a wetter sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet with foil. Do not skip this, or you will throw the pan away—the caramelized sugar hardens like cement. Cut your bacon slices into thirds.
Wrapping Phase
Wrap a piece of bacon around each sausage. Secure with a toothpick. Place them on the foil-lined pan. Pack them in snugly; touching is fine.
Sugaring Phase
Mix the brown sugar and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle it generously over the sausages. Use your hands to pat it onto the bacon.
Baking Phase
Bake for 35-45 minutes. The bacon should be brown and crispy, and the sugar should be bubbling vigorously. Remove from the oven. Important: Transfer them to a serving platter immediately. If they cool on the pan, the sugar will harden and glue them to the foil.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
The “Transfer”: As mentioned, the sugar hardens as it cools. You have a 5-minute window to move them from the pan to the platter. If they stick, put them back in the oven for a minute to melt the sugar again. Also, if you want them extra crispy, put them on a wire rack over the foil, though you lose some of the “drowning in sauce” goodness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using thick-cut bacon. It will be chewy and flabby. Also, overcrowding the oven. If you do multiple trays, rotate them halfway through to ensure even browning.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve warm. A slow cooker set to “warm” is the best way to serve these at a party.
Pairing Suggestions
These are sweet and heavy. Pair with something fresh like veggies and dip. Since this is a classic party appetizer, it fits perfectly alongside Baked Cranberry Brie Bites for a holiday spread that covers both savory/sweet and cheesy/tart profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I reheat them?
Yes, in the microwave or oven.
Q2? Why is my bacon soggy?
You didn’t bake it long enough. The sugar can insulate the bacon. Keep going until it looks dark.
Q3? Can I leave out the toothpick?
You can try placing them seam-side down, but they might unravel. Toothpicks are safer.
Recipe Scale
| Smokies Pkg | Bacon Strips | Brown Sugar |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (14oz) | 10-12 slices | 3/4 cup |
| 2 (28oz) | 20-24 slices | 1.5 cups |
Conclusion
Brown Sugar Bacon Smokies are a minimal-prep snack that steals the show. They are salty, sweet, sticky, and satisfying. Be warned: make a double batch, because one is never enough.
