Brown Sugar Smokies Recipe

Little smokies: These are small, cocktail-sized sausages that are perfect for appetizers.

Bacon: Choose a good quality bacon that can be easily cut into thirds and wrapped around the smokies.

Brown sugar: This adds a sweet, caramelized coating to the bacon-wrapped smokies.

To ensure the bacon cooks evenly and becomes perfectly crispy, partially cook the bacon slices in the microwave or on the stovetop for a few minutes before wrapping them around the little smokies. This will help render some of the fat and prevent the bacon from being undercooked while the brown sugar caramelizes.

• little smokies - Substitute with cocktail sausages: Cocktail sausages are similar in size and flavor, making them a great alternative.

• little smokies - Substitute with mini hot dogs: Mini hot dogs can provide a similar taste and texture.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option and can still provide a smoky flavor.

• bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto is thinner and less fatty but offers a rich, savory taste.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a similar sweetness and a unique flavor profile.

• brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and can caramelize well.

• Allow the little smokies to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bacon soggy.
• Transfer the cooled smokies to an airtight container. If stacking, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
• To freeze, arrange the smokies in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the smokies are frozen solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the smokies to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the smokies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy again.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a microwave on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover brown sugar smokies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until the bacon is sizzling and the brown sugar is re-caramelized.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Arrange the smokies on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to avoid splatters.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heated evenly.

• Skillet Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the brown sugar smokies in a single layer.
  3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar is bubbly.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the smokies in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the brown sugar smokies on a toaster oven tray lined with foil.
  3. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar is melted.

• Oven: Used to bake the smokies at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C) until the bacon is crispy and the sugar is caramelized.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the wrapped smokies on for baking.

• Toothpicks: Secures the bacon around each little smokie to keep it in place during baking.

• Knife: Used to cut the bacon into thirds.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to cut the bacon.

• Measuring cup: Measures out the correct amount of brown sugar to sprinkle over the smokies.

• Oven mitts: Protects your hands when placing the baking sheet in and taking it out of the hot oven.

• Tongs: Helps to handle the hot smokies when they are done baking.

• Serving platter: Used to present the finished brown sugar smokies for serving.

Pre-cut bacon: Buy pre-cut bacon to save time on slicing it into thirds.

Use parchment paper: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Batch wrapping: Wrap all the little smokies in bacon first, then secure them with toothpicks in one go.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven before you begin wrapping the smokies to save waiting time.

Even spacing: Place the wrapped smokies evenly on the baking sheet to ensure they cook uniformly.