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Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Smokies (Easy Brown Sugar Glaze)

bacon-wrapped smokies - featured image

Sweet, salty, and impossibly snackable bacon-wrapped smokies with a caramelized brown sugar glaze. The perfect appetizer for game day, parties, or any gathering that disappears fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (14 ounces) little smokies sausages
  • 1 pound thin-cut bacon
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top if you have one. Spray the rack lightly with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Cut each bacon strip into thirds, making pieces about 2-3 inches long.
  3. Wrap one piece of bacon around one smokie, overlapping the ends slightly. Secure with a toothpick pushed through the overlap point. Place seam side down on the prepared rack. Repeat until all smokies are wrapped.
  4. In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, melted butter, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne if using. Mix until it forms a thick paste.
  5. Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, spread a thin layer of the brown sugar mixture over each wrapped smokie.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes. At the 15-minute mark, check and rotate the pan if the glaze is browning too quickly on one side. The bacon should be crispy and the glaze bubbly and caramelized.
  7. Remove from the oven and let rest on the rack for 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm.

Notes

For best results, use thin-cut bacon. Don’t wrap bacon too tightly—leave a little slack. Soak wooden toothpicks in water for 15-20 minutes to prevent burning. For extra sticky glaze, brush on a second light coat halfway through baking. Let rest 5 minutes before serving so the glaze sets. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes or air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped smokies, brown sugar glaze, appetizer, game day snack, party food, little smokies, bacon wrapped sausages