Ingredients:

  • 14 oz cocktail smokies
  • 1 lb thick-cut bacon, cut into thirds
  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp Kentucky Bourbon
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place an oven-safe wire rack on top.
  2. Wrap each cocktail sausage with a third-strip of bacon, securing the seam with a toothpick. Place on the wire rack with space for airflow.
  3. Bake the smokies for 15 minutes to allow the bacon fat to render and edges to begin crisping.
  4. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, smoked paprika, cayenne, and salt. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
  5. Remove smokies from the oven and brush generously with the glaze. Return to the oven for 8-10 minutes until the glaze is bubbling and mahogany in color.