Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to whip up and packed with delicious flavor? Look no further than Bacon Wrapped Smokies! This irresistible treat combines savory cocktail wieners, crispy bacon, and a touch of sweetness for a snack everyone will rave about. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or a casual game night, this recipe is a surefire hit. Read on for a foolproof guide to making this simple yet spectacular party favorite.
Why You’ll Love Bacon Wrapped Smokies
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy party hosts or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavor-Packed: Sweet, salty, and smoky—these bite-sized appetizers hit all the right notes.
- Crowd Favorite: Adults and kids alike can’t resist these scrumptious snacks, making them a versatile choice for any event.
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What You Need
To make these delicious bacon wrapped smokies, gather these simple, easy-to-find ingredients (most of which you might already have on hand!):
Ingredients
- Cocktail Wieners (Little Smokies) – One 12–14 oz. package (about 40 pieces).
- Bacon – One pound of bacon, cut into thirds for easy wrapping. Thin-cut bacon crisps up best.
- Brown Sugar – ¾ cup, for sweetness and caramelization.
- Optional Seasonings – A ½ teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
Tools
- Toothpicks – To hold the bacon in place.
- Baking Sheet – Lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bacon Wrapped Smokies
1. Prepare Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to catch any drips.
- Slice your bacon into thirds; each piece should be long enough to wrap around a cocktail wiener once or slightly overlap.
2. Wrap the Wieners
- Take one piece of bacon and wrap it snugly around a cocktail wiener.
- Secure the bacon in place with a toothpick. Repeat until all cocktail wieners are wrapped.
3. Add Sweetness
- Sprinkle brown sugar evenly across the top of the bacon-wrapped smokies. For extra flavor, you can mix the brown sugar with ½ teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper before sprinkling.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Arrange the smokies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each to ensure even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–45 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sugar has caramelized.
- If you prefer extra crispy bacon, you can move the tray to the broiler for the final two minutes of cooking—just watch closely to avoid burning!
5. Serve Immediately
- Transfer the smokies to a serving plate or bowl. For warm smokies throughout your gathering, keep them in a slow cooker on the “Warm” setting.
Tips for Success
- Cold Bacon Works Best
Keep the bacon cold until you’re ready to wrap; it’s easier to handle that way!
- Uniform Cooking
Use a wire rack on top of your baking sheet to allow fat to drip off and prevent sogginess.
- Saucy Twist
Brush honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a maple syrup glaze on the smokies before baking for added sweetness or tang.
Serving Suggestions
Bacon Wrapped Smokies are ideal for serving at any casual gathering or holiday party. Pair them with these mouthwatering dips for an extra layer of flavor:
- Honey Mustard – Classic and slightly tangy.
- Ranch Dressing – Balances the sweetness with a creamy finish.
- Spicy BBQ Sauce – For those who love a smoky kick.
Arrange the smokies with toothpicks on a decorative platter alongside fresh veggies or other appetizers like cheese cubes and crackers for a complete party spread.
Storing and Reheating
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep your bacon wrapped smokies tasting fresh!
Refrigerator
- Store cooled smokies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer
- Arrange uncooked bacon wrapped smokies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the regular cooking instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to cook bacon wrapped smokies?
It typically takes 35–45 minutes at 350°F for the bacon to crisp thoroughly. Always check in the last few minutes to avoid overcooking.
2. Can I use thick-cut bacon for this recipe?
While you can use thick-cut bacon, it may take longer to cook and might not crisp as well. Thin-cut bacon is recommended for the perfect texture.
3. Can I make these smokies ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bacon wrapped smokies and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. How do I reheat leftover smokies?
Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as the bacon may turn soggy.
5. Can I make this recipe without bacon?
Bacon is a key flavor component in this recipe. If you need a pork-free option, consider using turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative.
Final Thoughts
Bacon Wrapped Smokies are a versatile, simple-to-make appetizer that guarantees smiles at any table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or planning a weekend party, this dish combines ease with crowd-pleasing flavor. With layers of crispy bacon, sweet caramelized sugar, and a smoky snack-sized bite, these little treats never last long!
Give them a try, and watch as they become the star of your table. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family for their next celebration!
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