Everyone loves this sweet & spicy 4-ingredient appetizer! This popular party food (with a secret step to ensure crispy, cooked bacon every time) is perfect for holidays or game day.
12ozlittle smokies sausages (or other cocktail wiener)
¼cuppure maple syrup
1-2tspchili garlic sauce (start with 1 tsp and add more if you want more spice)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place a double layer of parchment on a large sheet pan.
Cut bacon in half and place pieces on prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Lower oven temperature to 350°F.
12 oz center cut bacon
Prepare another sheet pan with two layers of parchment paper. When bacon is cool enough to handle, wrap a slice around a sausage and secure with a toothpick. Repeat until all bacon is used (you may have a few smokies leftover). Bake for 20-22 minutes.
12 oz little smokies sausages (or other cocktail wiener)
While bacon wrapped smokies are baking, whisk together maple syrup and chili garlic sauce in a small bowl.
¼ cup pure maple syrup, 1-2 tsp chili garlic sauce
When smokies are done baking, remove pan from oven and brush each smokie with the spicy syrup mixture. Return pan to oven and bake for another 3-4 minutes.
Allow to cool slightly and serve.
Notes
Ingredients:
Center cut bacon is meatier, has less fat and is the perfect size to wrap around the smokies.
I used little smokies but you can use any cocktail wiener you prefer.
Pure maple syrup will give you the best flavor.
Chili garlic sauce is my preferred spice for this recipe but you can also substitute Sriracha or another hot sauce if you like. You may have to adjust the amount of another hot sauce for balanced flavor.
Make ahead instructions: Parbake the bacon, wrap the smokies and secure with toothpicks. Refrigerate for up to two days. When ready to serve, bake as directed in the recipe. Leftover storage: Cool completely and refrigerate in a sealed container for up to three days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through.