Coca-Cola Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Smokies
Want your guests to talk about your appetizer for weeks? Then you need to learn to make these Coca-Cola glazed bacon wrapped smokies.
Imagine juicy little sausages, each wrapped in a crisp, savory bacon blanket. They are then coated in a rich, sweet, and tangy glaze that caramelizes to perfection.
Every bite is an explosion of flavor.
This recipe is your secret weapon for any gathering. It works perfectly for game day, holiday parties, or a casual get-together.
Despite its impressive look, it is surprisingly simple to make.
You only need a few basic ingredients. You can use small cocktail sausages or sliced kielbasa.
The method is flexible, too. You can use your oven, a slow cooker, or even the stovetop.
Get ready to become the star of your next event. This crowd-pleasing dish is guaranteed to disappear fast.
Key Takeaways
- This dish combines sweet, savory, and smoky flavors for an unforgettable taste.
- It is the perfect easy-to-make appetizer for any party or gathering.
- The recipe is versatile, allowing for different types of sausages.
- You can prepare it using multiple cooking methods to suit your needs.
- It requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and impressive results.
- These tasty bites are sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Recipe to making Coca-Cola Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Smokies
Here is the recipe for making Coca-Cola Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Smokies.
These are sticky, sweet, smoky, salty, caramelized perfection for game day, holidays, or any other kind of gathering.
Yield: Around 45 smokies.
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Smokies
- 1 lb (450 g) smoked cocktail sausages (approx. 40–45 pieces)
- 1 lb (450 g) thin-cut bacon, sliced into thirds
- ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, enhances flavor)
- Toothpicks, for securing
For the Coca-Cola Glaze
- 1 cup (240 ml) Coca-Cola (not Diet)
- ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Prep the Smokies
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and top with a wire rack.
- Cut each bacon slice into 3 equal pieces.
- Wrap one piece of bacon around each cocktail sausage.
- Secure with a toothpick and place seam-side down on the rack.
Add Seasoned Sugar
- In a small bowl, mix:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Lightly sprinkle this mixture over the top of all the wrapped smokies.
This helps caramelize the bacon while the glaze cooks.
Bake
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the bacon begins to render and look partially cooked.
Make the Coca-Cola Glaze
While the smokies bake, make the glaze:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine:
- 1 cup Coca-Cola
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire
- 1 tsp Dijon
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes until reduced to a thick, syrupy glaze.
- It should coat the back of a spoon.
Glaze & Finish Baking
- Remove the smokies from the oven.
- Brush generously with the Coca-Cola glaze.
- Return to the oven and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, or until:
- Bacon is fully cooked and crisp on the edges
- Glaze is sticky and caramelized
If you want them even more caramelized, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
Serving Notes
- Serve warm straight from the baking sheet or in a small slow cooker on Warm for parties.
- Extra glaze can be spooned over for shine and flavor.
- These reheat beautifully at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Introduction and Party Appeal
Imagine an appetizer that not only tastes amazing but also gives you more time to enjoy your own party.
That’s the magic of this recipe. It combines a sweet cola glaze, savory bacon, and tender sausages for a flavor you won’t forget.
The caramelized coating gives each piece a glossy, professional look. Your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen.
These little bites are guaranteed to be the first thing to vanish at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Appetizer
The best part is how easy it is. You do a little prep work upfront. Then the cooking is mostly hands-off.
This means you can focus on other party preparations. Or you can simply relax with your friends.
This convenience makes it a top choice for busy hosts.
A Crowd-Pleaser for Your Next Event
This dish has universal appeal. Both kids and adults go crazy for these savory bites. They are perfect for family-friendly parties or adult-only events.
They are especially ideal for game day celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a big Super Bowl party or a casual watch party, this food is a winner.
The combination of flavors is simply addicting.
Serve these at your next event, from summer barbecues to holiday parties. You will quickly become known as the person who brings the most memorable dish.
Your guests will be asking for the recipe all night long.
What You Need to Get Started
Gathering the right components is key to creating this unforgettable party treat.
Here’s what you’ll need.
Equipment and Tools You’ll Use
Your kitchen tools are straightforward. A slow cooker or crockpot works wonderfully for this recipe. You’ll also need a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Have wooden toothpicks ready for securing the bacon. A good knife helps with cutting. Measuring cups ensure accurate portions.
These simple tools create amazing results. Your preparation sets the stage for cooking success.
Creative Tips and Flavor Variations
Making small adjustments to the ingredients can transform this classic dish into your signature creation.
These simple tweaks let you customize the flavor to match your personal taste and party theme.
Adjusting the Sweetness and Sauce Consistency
You can easily control the sweetness level in your recipe. Start with the standard amount of brown sugar, then adjust to your preference.
Reduce it by a quarter cup for less sweetness or add extra for a richer glaze.
The sauce thickness is also customizable. Use less cola for a thicker coating or simmer the mixture on the stove before adding to your slow cooker.
This gives you perfect control over the final texture.
| Flavor Variation | Ingredients | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Tangy BBQ Twist | 1.5 cups BBQ sauce + ⅓ cup Dijon mustard | Savory with zesty kick |
| Spicy Kick | Add ¼ tsp chili powder to brown sugar | Mild heat, adjustable level |
| Tropical Sweet | Pineapple chunks with standard glaze | Sweet and savory combination |
| Reduced Sugar | ¾ cup brown sugar + ½ cup cola | Lighter, less sweet option |
Extra Tips for Slow Cooker Success and Serving Ideas
For best results in your crockpot, stir the bites gently every hour. This ensures even coating and prevents sticking.
Keep your slow cooker on the “Warm” setting during parties for perfect serving temperature.
Get creative with presentation by threading kielbasa bites with pineapple chunks on toothpicks.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Remember that cook time may vary between different slow cookers. Watch for the thick, caramelized consistency rather than strictly following time guidelines.
Your perfect dish awaits with these simple adjustments.
A True Crowd-pleaser
Elevate your entertaining game with a dish that consistently earns rave reviews from every crowd.
This classic recipe proves that minimal effort can create maximum impact at your next gathering.
Your guests will be asking for this party favorite long after the celebration ends as it’s perfect for game day events, holiday parties, or casual get-togethers.
Feel free to experiment with the flavor variations to make this appetizer your signature creation.
Pair these tasty bites with other popular recipes like:
Whether you choose the traditional method or simpler preparation, this delicious dish disappears quickly.
Share your success on social media and explore more appetizer recipes to build your entertaining repertoire.
