Brown Sugar Smokies Recipe

Cocktail sausages: Small, pre-cooked sausages that are perfect for appetizers.

Bacon: Sliced pork belly that adds a smoky, savory flavor when cooked.

Brown sugar: Adds a sweet, caramelized coating to the smokies.

To ensure the bacon cooks evenly and crisps up nicely, consider partially cooking it before wrapping the cocktail sausages. This will help render some of the fat and prevent the sausages from becoming too greasy. Additionally, using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet can allow the fat to drip away, resulting in a crispier texture.

• cocktail sausages - Substitute with mini hot dogs: Mini hot dogs have a similar size and flavor profile, making them a suitable replacement.

• cocktail sausages - Substitute with smoked sausages: Smoked sausages add a rich, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still provides the savory, crispy texture needed for this recipe.

• bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto offers a slightly different flavor but still provides a salty, savory element that pairs well with the sweetness of the brown sugar.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor, making it a good alternative.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique depth of flavor and sweetness, though it will make the dish slightly more liquid.

• Allow the brown sugar smokies to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation and sogginess.
• Transfer the cooled smokies into an airtight container. Layer them neatly, separating each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place the container in the freezer.
• When freezing, ensure the container is freezer-safe. Alternatively, you can use a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of freshness.
• To reheat refrigerated smokies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the smokies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen smokies, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the bacon chewy instead of crispy.
• If you prefer, you can reheat the smokies on a stovetop. Use a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until they are heated through and the bacon is crispy.
• Enjoy your brown sugar smokies as a delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for any gathering or casual munching.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the leftover Brown Sugar Smokies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the bacon from over-crisping. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the bacon while ensuring the sausages are heated evenly.

• Microwave Method: Place the Brown Sugar Smokies on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heated evenly. This method is quick but may result in slightly less crispy bacon.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the Brown Sugar Smokies in a single layer. Cook, turning occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method can help re-crisp the bacon while giving the sausages a nice, even heat.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the Brown Sugar Smokies in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method is excellent for maintaining the bacon's crispiness while quickly reheating the sausages.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Brown Sugar Smokies on a toaster oven tray lined with foil. Heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is convenient and helps keep the bacon crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the sausages and bacon at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the wrapped sausages on for baking.

• Toothpicks: Used to secure the bacon around each sausage.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the bacon into thirds.

• Cutting board: A safe surface to cut the bacon on.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure out 1 cup of brown sugar.

• Tongs: Helpful for handling the hot sausages and bacon after baking.

• Parchment paper: Optional, but can be used to line the baking sheet for easier cleanup.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when placing the baking sheet in and out of the oven.

Pre-cook the bacon: Partially cook the bacon before wrapping the sausages. This reduces the baking time and ensures the bacon gets crispy.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Assemble ahead: Wrap the sausages with bacon and secure with toothpicks the night before. Store them in the fridge until ready to bake.

Even spacing: Place the wrapped sausages evenly on the baking sheet to ensure they cook uniformly.

Quick sprinkle: Use a sifter to evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the sausages for a quick and even coating.