Candied Bacon Smokies

Highlighted under: Cozy Hearth Meals | Soul-Warming

Delight your guests with these irresistible Candied Bacon Smokies. Perfect for parties or as a fun appetizer, these sweet and savory bites are sure to impress.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:19:28.194Z

These Candied Bacon Smokies are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The crispy bacon enveloping juicy sausages creates a mouth-watering experience that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s game day, a holiday gathering, or a simple get-together, these bites are always a hit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Sweet and savory combination that tantalizes the taste buds
  • Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
  • A crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for more

Perfect for Any Gathering

Candied Bacon Smokies are an ideal addition to any gathering, whether it’s a casual get-together, a festive holiday party, or a game day celebration. Their delightful combination of flavors makes them a standout appetizer that pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. You can serve them alongside cocktails, craft beers, or sparkling beverages, ensuring that every guest finds something to enjoy.

Additionally, these savory bites are incredibly versatile. They can be presented on a platter as finger food, making them easy for guests to grab and enjoy while mingling. If you're planning a potluck or a buffet-style meal, these smokies can easily complement a wider spread of dishes, adding a unique twist that elevates the overall dining experience.

A Recipe to Remember

What sets Candied Bacon Smokies apart is their unforgettable flavor profile. The sweet, caramelized exterior of the bacon combined with the juicy, savory cocktail sausage creates a taste sensation that is hard to resist. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between sweet and savory, ensuring that your guests will be reaching for seconds and thirds.

Moreover, the preparation is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a batch of these delicious treats in no time. This recipe allows for creativity too; feel free to experiment by adding different spices or using various types of sausages for a personalized touch.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the best aspects of Candied Bacon Smokies is their make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the wrapped sausages in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them just before your event. This is particularly useful for busy hosts who want to reduce stress on the day of the gathering. By planning ahead, you can focus on other elements of your event while still serving a delicious and impressive appetizer.

If you're looking to make a larger batch, simply double the recipe. The leftovers, if there are any, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven for a quick snack or a meal addition. The flavors become even more pronounced after a day, making these bites just as enjoyable the next day.

Ingredients

Candied Bacon Smokies

  • 1 pound bacon, cut in half
  • 1 pound cocktail sausages
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the preparation for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

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

Prepare the bacon

In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Take a piece of bacon, wrap it around a cocktail sausage, and secure it with a toothpick. Roll the wrapped sausage in the sugar mixture.

Bake

Place the wrapped sausages on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.

Serve

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

These bites are best served warm. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the perfect candied bacon, ensure that your bacon is evenly coated with the sugar mixture. This will help create a beautiful caramelized crust as it bakes. If you prefer a little heat, don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your spice tolerance. A little kick can enhance the overall flavor profile, making each bite even more exciting.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some chopped herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the brown sugar mixture. This will give your Candied Bacon Smokies a unique twist that will impress your guests. Experimenting with different herbs and spices can turn a classic recipe into something truly special.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Candied Bacon Smokies, presentation is key. Arrange them on a stylish platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch. You could also serve them with dipping sauces like spicy mustard or a tangy barbecue sauce, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the bacon.

For a themed party, you can create a mini 'bacon bar' where guests can customize their smokies with various toppings or sauces. This interactive approach not only enhances the fun but also allows guests to tailor their experience, making your event memorable and engaging.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the wrapped sausages a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ Can I use turkey bacon instead?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative, though it may not be as crispy as regular bacon.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these?

Yes, you can freeze the wrapped sausages before baking. Just make sure to thaw them before baking.

Candied Bacon Smokies

Delight your guests with these irresistible Candied Bacon Smokies. Perfect for parties or as a fun appetizer, these sweet and savory bites are sure to impress.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Cozy Hearth Meals | Soul-Warming

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 12 servings

What You'll Need

Candied Bacon Smokies

  1. 1 pound bacon, cut in half
  2. 1 pound cocktail sausages
  3. 1 cup brown sugar
  4. 1 teaspoon black pepper
  5. 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Take a piece of bacon, wrap it around a cocktail sausage, and secure it with a toothpick. Roll the wrapped sausage in the sugar mixture.

Step 03

Place the wrapped sausages on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.

Step 04

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

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 10g