Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies are mini sausages coated in a sweet maple sauce. They’re easy to make and perfect for gatherings, a tasty finger food that everyone loves!
These little bites are like a flavor party in your mouth! I can’t resist having a few while watching TV. They’re quick to whip up and always a hit at parties—trust me, you’ll be asked for the recipe!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Smokies: These mini sausages are the star of the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, you could use turkey or chicken smokies instead.
Bacon: Regular bacon works great, but for a lower-fat option, turkey bacon is a good substitute. It might not crisp up quite as much, but it still adds flavor!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is key for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pancake syrup, but the taste will be different.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have any, regular yellow mustard can be used, but it’s a bit sharper in flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It helps balance the sweetness. If you don’t have it, try white vinegar or lemon juice for a similar effect.
What’s the Best Way to Wrap the Smokies with Bacon?
Wrapping the smokies properly is essential for even cooking and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by cutting each bacon slice in half. This keeps the proportions just right.
- Take a half slice of bacon and place it at one end of the smokie.
- Wrap the bacon around the smokie, overlapping slightly as you go.
- Secure with a toothpick if necessary; this prevents the bacon from unwrapping during cooking.
This method ensures every bit of smokie gets a delicious layer of crispy bacon, enhancing both flavor and texture! Take your time, and it’ll be worth it!
How to Make Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) cocktail smokies (mini smoked sausages)
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (optional)
- Toothpicks for securing bacon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30-35 minutes of cooking time. Overall, you can have these delicious cocktail smokies ready in about 50 minutes, making them perfect for gatherings or parties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This will make cleanup a breeze later on!
2. Wrap the Smokies:
Take each cocktail smokie and wrap it with half a slice of bacon. If the bacon isn’t holding together, use a toothpick to secure it. This helps keep the bacon nice and snug around the smokie as it cooks.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Now, place the bacon-wrapped smokies on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they’re spaced a little apart so they cook evenly.
4. Make the Maple Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper until everything is well combined. This tasty glaze is what will make your smokies shine!
5. Apply the Glaze:
With a brush or spoon, apply half of your maple glaze over the bacon-wrapped smokies. This will add lots of flavor and a nice sticky texture as they bake.
6. Bake the Smokies:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let the smokies bake for about 20 minutes. After that, take them out and give them a good brush with the remaining glaze to make them even more delicious.
7. Finish Baking:
Return the smokies to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You want the bacon to get crispy and the glaze to turn caramelized and sticky. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer your maple glazed cocktail smokies to a serving platter. Serve warm and get ready for everyone to enjoy these sweet and smoky treats!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may not crisp up as much as regular bacon, but it will still add a delicious flavor to the dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the bacon may lose some crispiness.
Can I Make These Smokies in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! If you prefer using a slow cooker, wrap the smokies in bacon and place them in the slow cooker. Pour the glaze over them and cook on low for about 4 hours or on high for about 2 hours. This method can make them even more tender and infused with flavor!
What Should I Serve with Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies?
These smokies make a fantastic appetizer, but they pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with toothpicks for easy eating alongside chips, veggie platters, or a fresh salad. They’re always a hit at parties or game days!