Candied Bacon Smokies

Name: Candied Bacon Smokies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 servings
Ingredients: 12 slices of bacon; 24 small smoked sausages; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

Deliciously sweet and savory, these Candied Bacon Smokies are the perfect appetizer for any gathering.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-23T01:18:28.186Z

Candied Bacon Smokies are a delightful treat that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with a sweet glaze, making them irresistible. Perfect for game day, holiday parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory flavor combination that excites the taste buds
Easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining
Great finger food for parties or game day
Always a crowd-pleaser!

      

The Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion

Candied Bacon Smokies are an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that make them a standout appetizer at any gathering. The combination of crispy bacon and smoky sausages creates a delightful bite that is sure to please your guests. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal event, these treats will fit right in, offering a deliciously unique twist that everyone will love.

Not only are they tasty, but they are also incredibly versatile. You can serve them at birthday parties, holidays, or game day celebrations. Their finger-food nature makes them easy to enjoy while mingling, allowing your guests to savor each bite without needing utensils. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, freeing you up to focus on other aspects of your event.

Flavor Profile That Excites

The flavor profile of Candied Bacon Smokies is a harmonious balance of sweet and savory. The sugary coating from the brown sugar and maple syrup caramelizes beautifully during baking, enhancing the natural flavors of the bacon and sausages. This creates a mouthwatering glaze that not only looks appealing but also adds an extra layer of crunch and flavor with every bite.

Adding black pepper and cayenne pepper introduces a subtle heat that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness, providing a well-rounded taste experience. This complexity makes them addictive, as each bite reveals a new layer of flavor, keeping your taste buds engaged and craving more.

Easy Preparation and Cleanup

One of the best parts about making Candied Bacon Smokies is how simple the preparation is. With just a few ingredients and minimal steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. The process is straightforward: wrap, coat, and bake. This ease makes it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Additionally, using parchment paper on your baking sheet ensures an easy cleanup. No one wants to deal with the sticky mess that can accompany sugary recipes, but this method minimizes that hassle, allowing you to enjoy the party without worrying about the aftermath.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Candied Bacon Smokies

12 slices of bacon
24 small smoked sausages
1 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon maple syrup

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Wrap the Sausages

Wrap each smoked sausage with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.

Prepare the Glaze

In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and maple syrup.

Coat the Wrapped Sausages

Roll each bacon-wrapped sausage in the brown sugar mixture, making sure they are well coated.

Bake

Place the coated sausages on the baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Candied Bacon Smokies!

These can be served warm or at room temperature!

Tips for the Best Candied Bacon Smokies

For perfectly crispy bacon, consider using a thicker cut. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps ensure the bacon crisps up nicely in the oven. Additionally, if you want to add a touch of smokiness, try using smoked bacon to complement the flavors of the sausages.

If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different spices in the glaze. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or even a splash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile and make these smokies even more delightful.

Serving Suggestions

Candied Bacon Smokies are delicious on their own, but serving them with a variety of dipping sauces can take them to the next level. Consider offering a spicy mustard, a tangy barbecue sauce, or even a maple dipping sauce to complement the sweet and savory flavors.

For a visually appealing presentation, arrange the smokies on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or sliced green onions. This not only enhances the aesthetic but also adds a pop of color, making your appetizer spread look even more inviting.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store the Candied Bacon Smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days, but the best flavor and texture are enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. This will help retain the delicious glaze and ensure they’re just as delightful as when you first made them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance and bake them just before serving.

→ What type of sausages should I use?

Small smoked sausages like cocktail sausages work best for this recipe.

→ Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon can be used, but it may not get as crispy as regular bacon.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.