These delicious Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies are the perfect party snack! Juicy little sausages are coated in a sweet maple sauce that makes them irresistible.
They’re super easy to make—just mix the ingredients and let them cook. I always enjoy them with toothpicks; trust me, they disappear quickly! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Smokies: These little sausages are the star! You can use turkey or chicken versions for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, try using veggie sausages instead.
Bacon: Regular bacon is great for wrapping, but you could use turkey bacon for a healthier twist. If you’re looking for a non-pork option, prosciutto can work too, giving a different flavor profile.
Maple Syrup: Always choose pure maple syrup for the best flavor. If you can’t find it, agave syrup is a decent alternative, though it won’t have the same unique taste as maple.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard can work, but it will change the flavor a bit. A bit of honey mustard can also add an interesting sweetness.
How Do I Ensure the Bacon Gets Crispy?
For that perfect crispy bacon, wrapping it snugly around the smokies is key. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat your oven for even cooking and to help crisp the bacon.
- Using a wire rack on the baking sheet allows air to circulate around the bacon, enhancing crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd; give each smokie space to cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to achieve the desired crispiness.
By following these tips, you’ll wow your guests with deliciously crispy and perfectly glazed cocktail smokies! Enjoy! 🎉
Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Smokies:
- 1 package (14 oz) cocktail size smoked sausages (cocktail smokies)
- 12 slices bacon (about 3 strips cut into 4 pieces each)
For The Glaze:
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh ground black pepper to taste (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful snack takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at about 40 minutes total. Perfect for quick party planning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to get your smokies crispy and delicious. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup a breeze.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
Take your bacon slices and cut each one into 4 pieces. This gives you just the right amount to wrap around each little smokie.
3. Wrap the Smokies:
Wrap each cocktail smokie tightly with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. Make sure the seam side is down on the baking sheet to keep the bacon from unraveling while cooking.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Whisk until it’s all blended and smooth.
5. Glaze the Smokies:
Drizzle or brush half of the glaze over the bacon-wrapped smokies on the baking sheet. This gives them a nice sweet start!
6. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Halfway through, give the smokies a little turn to ensure they cook evenly and soak up the glaze.
7. Final Glaze and Crisping:
After 25 minutes, pull them out and brush on the remaining glaze. Pop them back in the oven for another 5 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
8. Serve:
Once done, take them out and sprinkle lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper if you want. Let them cool for a bit, then serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking!
Enjoy your sweet and savory Maple Glazed Cocktail Smokies, perfect for any party or gathering! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Make These Smokies in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the smokies ahead of time! Simply wrap them in bacon and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just brush on the glaze and bake as directed; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re starting from the fridge.
What Can I Use Instead of Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup. While they’ll offer different flavor profiles, they’ll still provide that sweet, sticky glaze you’re looking for!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover cocktail smokies should be stored 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) until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick reheat.
Can I Use Other Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! You can substitute cocktail smokies with other small sausages like kielbasa or even chicken or turkey sausages for a lighter option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may vary.