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Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies

brown sugar bacon little smokies - featured image

These brown sugar bacon little smokies are the ultimate salty-sweet party appetizer, featuring smoky cocktail sausages wrapped in crispy bacon and caramelized with brown sugar. Quick to prep and always a crowd-pleaser, they’re perfect for game days, potlucks, or any festive gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (14 oz) package little smokies sausages (beef, pork, or turkey)
  • 12 oz regular-cut bacon (about 1012 slices)
  • 1 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • Toothpicks

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. If using a wire rack, place it on top and lightly spray with oil.
  2. Cut each strip of bacon into thirds to make 30-36 pieces.
  3. Wrap each little smoky with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Mix brown sugar with any optional spices (cayenne, black pepper, garlic powder) if using. Sprinkle generously over the wrapped sausages, pressing the sugar onto the bacon.
  5. Bake for 30-40 minutes, rotating the tray and spooning melted sugar/bacon fat over the sausages halfway through. If not using a rack, flip the smokies halfway for even crisping.
  6. Check for doneness: bacon should be deep golden and crisp, sugar bubbling. If needed, broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp, watching closely.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, with toothpicks for easy grabbing.

Notes

For crispier bacon, use a wire rack and avoid overcrowding the pan. Press the brown sugar firmly onto the bacon for the best caramelized crust. Prep ahead by wrapping the smokies and refrigerating overnight; add sugar just before baking. Turkey bacon or veggie sausages can be substituted for dietary needs. Watch closely if broiling, as sugar burns quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown sugar bacon little smokies, party appetizer, bacon-wrapped smokies, easy appetizer, game day snacks, sweet and salty, cocktail sausages, holiday appetizer