Brown Sugar Smokies Recipe

Cocktail smokies: Small, smoked sausages that provide a savory, smoky flavor.

Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramelized sweetness to the dish.

Bacon: Provides a crispy, salty contrast to the sweet brown sugar and smoky sausages.

When wrapping the cocktail smokies with bacon, make sure to stretch the bacon slightly as you wrap it around the smokie. This ensures a tighter wrap, which helps the bacon stay in place during cooking. Additionally, for an extra layer of flavor, you can brush the bacon with a bit of maple syrup before sprinkling the brown sugar on top. This will enhance the caramelization process and add a delightful sweetness to each bite.

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

• cocktail smokies - Substitute with veggie sausages: For a vegetarian option, veggie sausages can mimic the texture and taste of cocktail smokies.

• 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 can add a different but complementary sweetness and depth of flavor.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still provides a smoky flavor.

• bacon - Substitute with tempeh bacon: For a vegetarian option, tempeh bacon offers a similar texture and smoky taste.

• Allow the brown sugar smokies to cool completely after baking. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make the bacon soggy.

• Transfer the cooled smokies to an airtight container. If you’re layering them, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The smokies will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• For longer storage, you can freeze the smokies. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the smokies to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to enjoy, reheat the smokies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy again.

• If you prefer, you can also reheat them in a microwave. Place the smokies on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

• For an extra touch, you can brush the smokies with a bit of maple syrup or sprinkle additional brown sugar before reheating to enhance the caramelized flavor.

• Always ensure the smokies are reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the leftover brown sugar smokies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar is bubbly.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the smokies on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heated evenly.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the smokies in a single layer in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• For stovetop reheating, use a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the smokies and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are heated through and the bacon is crispy.

• If you prefer using a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the smokies on a baking sheet and heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar is caramelized.

• Oven: Used to bake the smokies at the specified temperature until the bacon is crispy and the sugar is caramelized.

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

• Parchment paper: Lines the baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

• Toothpicks: Secures the bacon around each smokie to keep it in place during baking.

• Knife: Used to cut the bacon into thirds.

• Measuring cup: Measures the correct amount of brown sugar to sprinkle over the smokies.

• Mixing bowl: Optional, but can be used to mix the brown sugar to break up any clumps before sprinkling.

Pre-cut bacon: Buy pre-cut bacon to save time on slicing it into thirds.

Use a baking rack: Place the wrapped smokies on a baking rack over the baking sheet to allow even cooking and easy cleanup.

Preheat oven: Preheat the oven while you wrap the smokies to save time.

Batch work: Wrap all the smokies first, then sprinkle the brown sugar to streamline the process.

Line with foil: Line the baking sheet with aluminum foil under the parchment paper for easier cleanup.