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Savory BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Smokies Recipe with Brown Sugar Glaze

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A quick and easy appetizer featuring smoky cocktail sausages wrapped in bacon and coated with a sticky, sweet brown sugar BBQ glaze. Perfect for parties, game days, or unexpected guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 smokies (cocktail sausages, about 1 pound / 450 g)
  • 12 slices regular cut bacon
  • ⅓ cup packed brown sugar (about 70 g)
  • ¼ cup BBQ sauce (60 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Toothpicks for securing bacon

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. If using, place a wire rack on top of the sheet.
  2. Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise to create 24 shorter strips.
  3. Wrap each smokie tightly with a bacon strip and secure with a toothpick.
  4. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine brown sugar, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Warm gently until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens slightly (2-3 minutes on low heat or 30 seconds in microwave). Stir well.
  5. Generously coat each bacon-wrapped smokie with the brown sugar glaze using a brush or spoon.
  6. Arrange the smokies on the wire rack or directly on the foil-lined baking sheet, spaced apart.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through to crisp all sides evenly. Watch closely after 15 minutes to avoid burning.
  8. Optional: Brush on a second layer of glaze during the last 5 minutes of baking for extra stickiness.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow glaze to set.

Notes

Use room temperature bacon to prevent tearing. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep bacon crispy. Turning halfway through baking ensures even caramelization. Watch glaze carefully to prevent burning. Using a wire rack helps fat drip away and crisps bacon better. Resting after baking helps glaze set and prevents burns when eating. For gluten-free, ensure BBQ sauce and smokies are labeled gluten-free. Variations include adding hot sauce or smoked paprika to glaze, swapping brown sugar for honey or maple syrup, or air frying at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped smokies, BBQ appetizer, party snack, brown sugar glaze, easy appetizer, game day food, finger food

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/savory-bbq-bacon-wrapped-smokies-recipe-with-brown-sugar-glaze-easy-and-perfect-appetizer-ideas/