Bacon Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar Glaze
These Bacon Wrapped Smokies are the ultimate easy appetizer — sweet, salty, and perfectly caramelized with brown sugar. Baked at 425°F until crisp, they’re quick to prep, make-ahead friendly, and always a crowd favorite for holidays or game day.
Servings 10
Ingredients
- 1 package cocktail smokies
- 1 pound regular-cut bacon cut into thirds
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- Optional: pinch of cayenne chili powder, or smoked paprika for heat
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Add a baking rack on top of the sheet to allow air to circulate and help the bacon crisp evenly.
- Cut bacon into thirds. Wrap each smokie with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick — or thread several onto a skewer for easy serving and flipping.
- Arrange the smokies on the rack in a single layer, leaving space between each for even cooking.
- Sprinkle generously with brown sugar so the tops are fully coated.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bacon is crisp and the sugar has caramelized into a glossy glaze. Rotate the pan halfway through for even browning.
- Optional Finish: For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end — just keep an eye on them!
- Cool slightly for 5 minutes before serving to let the glaze set.
Notes
Use Regular-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut takes longer to crisp and can burn the sugar.
Add a Baking Rack: Keeps bacon from sitting in grease and helps it crisp perfectly.
Line Your Pan: Foil or parchment makes cleanup effortless — brown sugar can caramelize fast.
Sprinkle Sugar Last: Adding it after arranging prevents pooling and ensures an even glaze.
Skewer for Parties: Thread several smokies onto one stick for a fun, easy-to-serve presentation.
Batch Bake: Double the recipe and rotate trays halfway for even baking.
Keep Warm: Transfer to a slow cooker on “warm” so they stay hot and glossy during your party.