These Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies are the perfect party snack! Sweet and savory, each little sausage is wrapped in a tasty glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
They are so easy to make, just toss them in a slow cooker or on a skillet and let the magic happen. Trust me, they disappear quickly, and you might need a backup batch! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Sausages (Smokies): These little sausages are the heart of this recipe. If you want a healthier option, you can use turkey or chicken sausages. They still have great flavor, and they’re a lighter choice!
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds wonderful crispness. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey bacon works too, but it may not get quite as crispy. You could even skip it entirely for a vegetarian twist—just cook the smokies with the glaze.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is best for real sweetness. If you’re on a budget, a good-quality pancake syrup can work as a substitute, though it may be a bit sweeter. Try using honey for a different flavor twist!
Brown Sugar: This adds rich sweetness that complements the smokies. You can replace it with white sugar if you don’t have brown sugar handy, but you’ll lose that deeper flavor.
Ketchup: It helps balance the sweetness. If you like a bit more tang, using BBQ sauce instead is a tasty option! You can also use homemade ketchup if you have some lying around.
How Should I Properly Wrap the Smokies with Bacon?
Wrapping each smokie in bacon might seem simple, but it can make a big difference in how they cook! Here’s how to do it right:
- Cut the bacon into thirds. This length is perfect for wrapping without overlapping too much.
- Start at one end of a smokie and wrap the bacon around it completely. Make sure it covers the sausage well.
- Secure the bacon with a toothpick through the center to hold it in place during cooking.
By wrapping tightly but not too snugly, the bacon will crisp up nicely without overcooking. Plus, it adds a wonderful flavor and texture!
How to Ensure a Great Glaze?
Applying the glaze correctly can elevate the flavor dramatically! Follow these tips:
- Mix your glaze ingredients well. Whisking helps dissolve the sugar and blends all the flavors.
- Brush the glaze on before cooking and every 10 minutes while baking. This builds a sticky, sweet coating.
- Watch for that beautiful caramelization! The glaze should turn a lovely golden brown when done.
With these steps, you’ll achieve a perfect glaze that makes every bit of smokie delicious!
How to Make Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smokies:
- 1 package (14 oz) cocktail sausages (Smokies)
- 8 slices bacon
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- Optional: pinch of black pepper or cayenne for a slight kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in about 45 minutes total, you’ll have these delightful treats ready to impress your friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your smokies go in!
2. Prepare the Bacon:
Take the bacon slices and cut each one into thirds. This makes the perfect size to wrap around each smokie. Just a few quick slices will do the trick!
3. Wrap the Smokies:
Grab a piece of bacon and wrap it around each cocktail sausage. Make sure to cover as much of the sausage as you can, and secure it with a toothpick to keep it together. This step is crucial for a great bite!
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the bacon-wrapped smokies on it. Make sure they are spaced out a bit, so they can crisp up nicely.
5. Mix the Glaze:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and optional spices. This glaze is where the magic happens!
6. Brush the Glaze:
Generously brush the glaze mixture over each bacon-wrapped smokie. Don’t hold back—this is what gives them that sweet and sticky goodness!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to turn the smokies and brush on more glaze every 10 minutes to create a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once they are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This waiting period will help the glaze set.
9. Enjoy!
Serve the smokies warm as a delightful appetizer. Get ready for everyone to rave about them—these maple glazed cocktail smokies are a hit!
Enjoy this sweet and savory combination, and watch them disappear at your next gathering!
Can I Use Frozen Smokies for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cocktail sausages! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge before wrapping with bacon to ensure even cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! After wrapping the smokies in bacon and applying the glaze, place them in the slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The result will be just as delicious and perfect for gatherings!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Certainly! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can skip the black pepper and cayenne entirely. For more heat, feel free to add extra cayenne or even some hot sauce to the glaze for a delicious kick!
