These Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy little sausages are coated in a sweet maple glaze that makes them absolutely irresistible.
Who knew tiny sausages could be so exciting? I love serving these at parties—they never last long! Just pop them in a slow cooker, and let the magic happen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Sausages: The star of this dish! Little smokies are great but you can also use any small sausages like turkey or chicken sausages for a lighter option, or even vegetarian alternatives.
Bacon: I love using regular bacon for its rich flavor, but turkey bacon works well too. For a unique twist, try using maple bacon to enhance that maple flavor!
Maple Syrup: Always go for pure maple syrup for the best taste—it’s worth it! If you’re in a pinch, you can use pancake syrup, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and depth. If you’re out, you can use granulated sugar, although it will be less rich. Adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a nice kick. If you’re not a fan, you could substitute with yellow mustard for less sharpness, or even omit it altogether.
How Can I Get the Bacon Crispy Without Overcooking the Sausages?
Getting that bacon crispy while keeping the sausages juicy is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- Wrap the sausages tightly in bacon; this helps them hold their shape and cook evenly.
- Preheat your oven properly! A hot oven will help the bacon render its fat and become crispy.
- Brush your bacon-wrapped smokies with the glaze a few times during baking for extra flavor and to keep moisture in.
- Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes, but you may need to bake up to 30 minutes for that perfect crisp.
Letting them rest a bit after baking helps them keep their juices, and the glaze will firm up slightly—making them easier to eat!
How to Make Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smokies:
- 1 lb cocktail sausages (smokies)
- 10-12 slices bacon (cut in half to wrap smokies)
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
- Toothpicks for securing bacon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook. Set aside 45 minutes in total, and you’ll have the perfect finger food ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to catch any drips and make clean-up easier.
2. Wrap the Smokies:
Take each cocktail sausage and wrap it with half a slice of bacon. If you find the bacon slips off, use a toothpick to hold it in place. Repeat until all sausages are wrapped up nicely!
3. Make the Maple Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk it all together until you have a lovely, smooth glaze.
4. Arrange and Glaze:
Place your bacon-wrapped smokies on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Now, take your delicious maple glaze and brush it generously over each of the smokies. You want them to be well coated for that amazing flavor!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. About halfway through, give them a little turn and brush on some more glaze to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for crispy bacon and a caramelized glaze!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. If you’re fancy, garnish them with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your maple glazed cocktail smokies warm, with the toothpicks still in for easy picking. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
These little bites combine sweet and savory flavors perfectly, making them an irresistible appetizer that everyone will love. Enjoy your created deliciousness!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While cocktail smokies are traditional, you can also use mini bratwursts, turkey sausages, or even vegetarian sausages for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are small enough to wrap with bacon!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover maple glazed cocktail smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the bacon-wrapped sausages a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, simply apply the glaze and bake as directed for a quick appetizer!
What Should I Serve with Cocktail Smokies?
These smokies pair wonderfully with a variety of dips! Consider serving them with Dijon mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing on the side. They also make a tasty addition to a charcuterie board!