These Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies are so easy to make and full of sweet and smoky flavor! The little sausages are bathed in a yummy maple syrup sauce that makes them irresistible.
They are perfect as a party snack, and you know what? You might have trouble just eating one! I love serving them warm with toothpicks for easy munching. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Sausages: The star of this recipe! You can use any brand of little smokies. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausages are great substitutes, offering a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Bacon: Regular bacon works beautifully, but you could also try turkey bacon for a leaner choice. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as turkey bacon might need a bit less time in the oven.
Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup for the best flavor. If you need a vegan option, agave syrup or maple-flavored syrup can serve as alternatives, but the taste will vary slightly.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar will do, but dark has more flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can mix white sugar with a little molasses as a quick substitute!
How Can I Ensure the Bacon is Perfectly Crispy?
Achieving crispy bacon on these smokies is crucial for that delicious texture. Here’s how:
- Use a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Brush the glaze generously but don’t drown them, as excess liquid can prevent crispiness.
- Keep an eye on them during the last minutes of baking; oven times can vary, and you want that bacon to be golden and crunchy, not burnt.
- If you find the bacon isn’t crisping up, you could briefly broil them at the end for an extra crunch—watch closely!
Following these tips will help you whip up some deliciously crispy and flavorful cocktail smokies that everyone will love!
How to Make Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (14 oz) cocktail sausages (little smokies)
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, for sprinkling
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Toothpicks
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and about 35-40 minutes to cook. Overall, you can expect to spend around 50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, let’s get the oven ready! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This step makes cleaning up a breeze after your delicious smokies are done!
2. Wrap the Smokies:
Next, grab your cocktail sausages and half slices of bacon. Take one sausage and wrap it snugly in a piece of bacon, then secure it with a toothpick. Repeat this process until all the sausages are wrapped up. This is where the magic starts!
3. Arranging the Smokies:
Now, place those bacon-wrapped smokies on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer so they cook evenly. No overlapping is key here!
4. Make the Maple Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is well combined; this glaze is going to add so much flavor to your smokies!
5. Coat the Smokies:
Using a brush or spoon, coat half of the glaze over the wrapped sausages. Make sure each one gets a good amount of that sweet goodness. Yum!
6. First Bake:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and let the smokies bake for about 20 minutes. This will start to crisp up that bacon and soak the sausages in flavor.
7. Add More Glaze:
After 20 minutes, take them out and brush on the remaining glaze. It’s time to send them back to the oven!
8. Finish Baking:
Put the sheet back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook; you’re aiming for crispy bacon and a beautifully caramelized glaze. Be careful not to let them burn!
9. Final Touches:
Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle a little salt over the top to enhance that delicious flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
These smokies are best served warm! Place them on a platter with toothpicks, and watch them disappear as your guests enjoy the sweet and smoky goodies!
This recipe yields some truly delicious, sticky, and crispy maple glazed cocktail smokies that are perfect for any gathering. Enjoy your cooking and the happy faces around the table!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While cocktail sausages are traditional for this recipe, you can use any smoked or cooked sausage of your choice, such as kielbasa or even mini bratwurst for a twist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover smokies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to revive the crispy bacon texture.
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes, you can add a dash of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the maple glaze for a zingy kick! Adjust the amount to suit your preferred spice level.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the smokies by wrapping them in bacon and placing them on the baking sheet. Cover and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. When ready, just apply the glaze and bake as directed!
