Candied Bacon Smokies

Highlighted under: FreshGlow Recipes

Deliciously sweet and savory, Candied Bacon Smokies are the perfect appetizer for any gathering. These bite-sized treats combine smoky sausage with crispy, caramelized bacon for an irresistible flavor.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-21T12:09:50.310Z

These Candied Bacon Smokies are a crowd-pleaser at any party or gathering. The combination of sweet brown sugar and smoky bacon creates a flavor explosion that pairs perfectly with juicy sausages. Quick to prepare and easy to eat, they make for a delightful appetizer that everyone will love!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Irresistibly sweet and smoky flavor
  • Perfectly crispy bacon wrapped around juicy sausages
  • Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

Perfect for Any Occasion

Candied Bacon Smokies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, suitable for a variety of gatherings. Whether you're hosting a holiday party, a game day celebration, or a casual get-together, these bite-sized appetizers will impress your guests. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes them an addictive snack that pairs perfectly with drinks or as part of a larger spread.

These treats are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a standalone appetizer, add them to a charcuterie board, or even use them to elevate a brunch menu. Their unique flavor profile and eye-catching presentation will make them the star of the show at any event.

Easy to Make

One of the best aspects of Candied Bacon Smokies is how simple they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time. This recipe is especially great for those who might be new to cooking or are looking for something that won’t take up too much of their valuable time.

The straightforward steps allow you to focus on other aspects of your gathering while still providing a delightful treat. Plus, the baking method means you can prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven just before serving, ensuring that you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your guests.

Customize Your Candied Bacon Smokies

While the classic combination of brown sugar and spices is delicious, feel free to get creative with your Candied Bacon Smokies. You can experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika, to add a unique twist. For a sweeter version, consider drizzling maple syrup over the bacon before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

Additionally, you can swap out the breakfast sausage links for other types of sausages, like Italian or spicy sausage, depending on your taste preferences. This adaptability makes the recipe perfect for tailoring to your guests' likes and dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this decadent treat.

Ingredients

For Candied Bacon Smokies

  • 12 breakfast sausage links
  • 12 slices of bacon
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the bacon

In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Wrap the sausages

Wrap each sausage link with a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.

Coat with sugar mixture

Roll each bacon-wrapped sausage in the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

Bake

Place the coated sausages on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Candied Bacon Smokies!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness. Allow the Candied Bacon Smokies to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

For longer storage, you can also freeze the cooked sausages. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your serving presentation, consider garnishing your Candied Bacon Smokies with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair them with dipping sauces such as spicy mustard or a tangy barbecue sauce to enhance the flavor experience. These sauces not only add an extra layer of taste but also create an interactive element for your guests.

For an upscale twist, serve them on a wooden board alongside artisanal cheeses, olives, and crackers. This not only makes for a visually stunning appetizer spread but also encourages mingling and conversation among guests. The combination of textures and flavors will keep everyone coming back for more.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey bacon instead?

Yes, turkey bacon can be used for a lighter version, but it may not get as crispy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.

→ What can I serve with Candied Bacon Smokies?

They pair well with dipping sauces like barbecue or honey mustard.

Candied Bacon Smokies

Deliciously sweet and savory, Candied Bacon Smokies are the perfect appetizer for any gathering. These bite-sized treats combine smoky sausage with crispy, caramelized bacon for an irresistible flavor.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: FreshGlow Recipes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: Serves 12

What You'll Need

For Candied Bacon Smokies

  1. 12 breakfast sausage links
  2. 12 slices of bacon
  3. 1/2 cup brown sugar
  4. 1 teaspoon black pepper
  5. 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Step 03

Wrap each sausage link with a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.

Step 04

Roll each bacon-wrapped sausage in the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 05

Place the coated sausages on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.

Step 06

Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g