Before we dive into today’s dangerously addictive appetizer, let me begin with a heartfelt thank you. Truly—every time you stop by to cook with me, share a recipe with your friends, or leave the sweetest comments, it fills my kitchen with joy. You’re the reason I get to write, test, and taste all these fun dishes… and today’s is one I cannot wait for you to try!
These Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies are the ultimate party appetizer—crispy, caramelized, sweet, smoky, salty, and absolutely irresistible. And here’s the kicker… they’re made with just three ingredients. THREE! I promised you simple, and here’s proof!
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What This Recipe Is All About
This recipe is all about big flavor with minimal effort. Bacon-wrapped mini sausages, coated in brown sugar, baked until caramelized and crisp. They’re poppable, snackable, and always the first empty tray at any gathering.
Perfect for holidays. Perfect for game day. Perfect for ANY day you want something that makes people say, “Wait—who brought THESE?!”
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 3 ingredients
- Quick to assemble
- Baked (no frying mess!)
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser
- Sweet + savory flavor explosion
- Scales perfectly for a crowd
- Impossible to eat just one
What They Taste Like
Imagine smoky, salty bacon wrapped around juicy little sausages, all coated in a caramelized layer of brown sugar that melts into a glossy, sticky, irresistible glaze. One bite and you get crunchy, chewy, sweet, smoky, savory all at once.
Anything but boring!!
Benefits of This Recipe
- Budget friendly
- Beginner friendly
- Great make-ahead appetizer
- Fun for parties, potlucks, and holidays
- Kids and adults both devour them
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) package little smokies sausages
- 1 lb thin-cut bacon, each slice cut into thirds
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet or baking dish
- Foil or nonstick spray
- Zip-top bag
- Toothpicks
- Tongs or fork
Additions & Substitutions
Optional Add-Ins
- Cayenne or chili powder for heat
- Maple syrup drizzle before baking
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Smoked paprika for extra smokiness
Substitutions
- Use turkey bacon to lighten things up
- Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar
- Use kielbasa slices instead of smokies
How to Make Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies
Step 1 – Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease or foil-line a baking sheet.
Step 2 – Wrap
Pat sausages dry.
Wrap each one with a bacon piece and secure with a toothpick.
Step 3 – Coat
Add brown sugar to a zip-top bag.
Drop in a few bacon-wrapped smokies and gently shake to coat.
Transfer to baking sheet. Repeat until all are coated.
Step 4 – Season
Sprinkle black pepper on top if you like a sweet + spicy combo.
Step 5 – Bake
Bake 30–35 minutes, until the bacon browns and sugar caramelizes.
Step 6 – Optional Broil
For extra crispiness (and honestly, it’s worth it!), broil for 1–2 minutes.
What to Serve With These Smokies
Pair them with:
- Ranch or BBQ sauce
- Honey mustard
- A party platter of cheeses & crackers
- Other finger foods like meatballs or sliders
Tips for Perfect Little Smokies
- Use thin bacon so it crisps properly.
- Pat sausages dry for better caramelization.
- Don’t overcrowd the tray—spacing helps crispiness.
- Broil at the end for next-level color & crunch.
- Toothpicks make them easy to serve and eat!
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
- Freezer: Up to 2 months
- Reheat: Bake or air-fry until warm and crisp
General Information
- Yield: About 9 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Flavor: Sweet, smoky, salty, caramelized
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use thick-cut bacon?
Not recommended—it won’t crisp well in time.
Are they spicy?
Not unless you add pepper or cayenne. They’re mostly sweet + smoky.
Do I have to use toothpicks?
No, but they make them easier to eat and keep the bacon in place.
Conclusion
These Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies are everything an appetizer should be—fun, flavorful, incredibly easy, and seriously addictive. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a game-day spread, or a last-minute party, these will always be a hit. And trust me… you’ll want to make extra.
If you love sweet-and-savory appetizers, I’ve got tons more where this came from—just say the word!
Interactive Elements
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Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 21g
- Carbs: 18g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: varies by sausage brand
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