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Easy Best Candied Bacon Wrapped Smokies Recipe

candied bacon wrapped smokies - featured image

Little smoked sausages wrapped in bacon, coated in a brown sugar and cayenne mixture, and baked until the bacon crisps and the sugar caramelizes into a sweet, salty, slightly spicy glaze. Perfect for game day, parties, or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (14 oz) little smokies
  • 1 lb thin-cut bacon
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Toothpicks (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top if available and spray lightly with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup packed brown sugar with 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika if using). Stir until evenly distributed.
  3. Cut each slice of bacon into thirds, creating pieces about 2-3 inches long.
  4. Wrap one piece of bacon around each little smokie, overlapping slightly. Secure with a toothpick if desired, or place seam side down on the rack.
  5. Roll each bacon-wrapped smokie in the brown sugar mixture, pressing gently to coat all sides.
  6. Place coated smokies on the wire rack, leaving space between each for even cooking.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check at 15 minutes; if sugar is browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil. Bacon should be crispy and dark golden brown, sugar bubbling and caramelized.
  8. Let cool on the rack for 5 minutes before serving. Transfer to a platter and serve warm.

Notes

Use thin-cut bacon for best results. Do not overcrowd the pan. Flip halfway through for even caramelization. Watch the sugar closely during the last 5-10 minutes to prevent burning. Line the baking sheet for easy cleanup. Make extra as these disappear quickly. Can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: candied bacon wrapped smokies, bacon wrapped smokies, little smokies, game day appetizer, party appetizer, sweet and savory, bacon appetizer