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Candied Bacon-Wrapped Smokies: Easy 30-Minute Appetizer

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Salty, smoky, sweet, and gone in two seconds flat—these candied bacon-wrapped smokies are the perfect party appetizer. Little smokies wrapped in bacon, coated in a brown sugar glaze that caramelizes into a sticky, crunchy shell.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz package little smokies (about 60–70 sausages)
  • 1 lb thin-cut bacon
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Toothpicks (soaked in water for 10 minutes)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. If using a wire rack, place it on the sheet now.
  2. Cut each bacon strip into thirds (about 2-3 inches long).
  3. Wrap one piece of bacon around one little smokie, overlapping slightly. Secure with a toothpick pushed through the center at a slight angle. Repeat until all smokies are wrapped.
  4. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup packed brown sugar and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using). Stir with a fork to break up clumps.
  5. Using tongs, roll each bacon-wrapped smokie in the brown sugar mixture, coating generously on all sides. Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes. At the 15-minute mark, check the smokies. If the sugar is browning too quickly, rotate the pan. If not using a wire rack, flip each smokie at the 15-minute mark.
  7. The smokies are done when the bacon is crispy and the sugar has caramelized into a deep golden-brown glaze. The edges of the bacon should look slightly darkened and crispy. If the sugar starts smoking, remove immediately.
  8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. The glaze will set into a crunchy shell.
  9. Transfer to a serving platter. Remove toothpicks if desired, or leave them in for easy grabbing. Serve warm.

Notes

Soak toothpicks in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning. Don’t overcrowd the pan—leave at least half an inch between smokies. Watch the sugar carefully around the 20-minute mark to prevent burning. For make-ahead, assemble wrapped smokies (without sugar coating) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add 5 minutes to baking time if starting from cold. For best texture, bake just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: candied bacon-wrapped smokies, bacon wrapped smokies, easy appetizer, party appetizer, game day appetizer, brown sugar bacon, little smokies

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/candied-bacon-wrapped-smokies-easy-30-minute-appetizer/