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Nothing brings people together quite like these irresistible brown sugar little smokies. With just three ingredients and minimal prep time, these sweet and savory bites transform into the perfect party appetizer right in your crockpot. The combination of smoky sausages with a sticky-sweet glaze creates pure magic that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
After discovering this recipe at a holiday party years ago, I've made these countless times. The way the brown sugar caramelizes with the BBQ sauce creates an irresistible glaze that makes these impossible to resist.
Simple But Essential Ingredients
- Cocktail Sausages: Choose your favorite variety—beef, pork, or turkey all work beautifully.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark both create that perfect caramelized coating.
- BBQ Sauce: Your preferred brand adds depth and smokiness.
- Slow Cooker: The vessel that makes it all happen effortlessly.
Creating Your Appetizer
- Initial Setup:
- Add your cocktail sausages to the slow cooker, ensuring they're evenly distributed across the bottom.
- Sweet Magic:
- Sprinkle your brown sugar evenly over the sausages, letting it settle between the layers.
- Sauce Integration:
- Pour your BBQ sauce over everything, then gently stir to combine all ingredients.
- Perfect Timing:
- Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even glazing.
- Serving Preparation:
- Switch to warm setting once they're done, keeping them at the perfect temperature throughout your gathering.
Save for Later
Growing up, my mom would make these for every holiday gathering. The way the aroma filled the house always signaled the start of a celebration. Now, they're my go-to party appetizer.
Perfect Pairings
Serve alongside other finger foods like cheese and crackers or vegetable platters. Include festive toothpicks for easy grabbing and provide small plates for guests.
Creative Variations
Transform this recipe by wrapping the smokies in bacon before cooking, using different BBQ sauce flavors, or trying the grape jelly and chili sauce alternative for a unique twist.
Storage Solutions
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or back in the slow cooker with a splash of BBQ sauce.
Save for Later
These little smokies have become a staple at my gatherings, earning their place as the most requested appetizer. There's something magical about how such a simple recipe can bring so much joy to a party.
Through years of making these, I've learned that their charm lies not just in their delicious taste but in their ability to bring people together. Whether you're hosting a holiday celebration or game day gathering, these sweet and savory bites create moments of shared enjoyment.
Remember, cooking should be fun and stress-free, and this recipe embodies that perfectly. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy time with your guests, and watch as these little bites of happiness disappear.
Recipe Tips & FAQs
- → Can I use turkey sausages for this recipe?
- Yes, turkey sausages work great as a lighter alternative to regular cocktail sausages.
- → How long do I cook bacon-wrapped smokies?
- Bacon-wrapped smokies need about 3 hours on HIGH in the crockpot, stirring every 30-45 minutes to brown the bacon.
- → Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients ahead and store them in the fridge. Just cook in the crockpot before serving.
- → What can I substitute for BBQ sauce?
- You can use a mix of grape jelly and chili sauce for a tangy, sweet alternative to BBQ sauce.
- → How many servings does this recipe make?
- This recipe makes about 8 servings, perfect for a party or gathering.