Maple Bacon Smokie Bites

I'm always looking for ideas of food to take to family gatherings and parties that is both yummy and easy to make. Little Smokies are a favorite. So when I was asked if I would try Crown Maple Syrup and Sugar, I immediately thought of combining it with bacon to wrap the mini sausages. My first thought was actually shrimp, but we didn't have any on hand and I'm all about quick and easy food. So mini sausages and Maple Sugar bacon is it!

These Maple Bacon Smokie bites turned out SO delicious. I ended up running to the store to grab more bacon and some shrimp. I'll share photos and a follow-up recipe once I make it.

The maple flavor is an awesome compliment to the bacon. The pepper just adds a little subtle spice, so even the wimpy spice tasters (that's me!) will love these snacks. This is a perfect appetizer to take to your next gathering or party. Your family will love them. Feel free to add a little more zip or a kick of chili powder to your version.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Crown Maple Sugar
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
• 1 package Bacon
• 1 package Little Smokies

Supplies:

• Toothpicks
• Small bowl
• Deep cookie sheet – you need the edges to contain the grease while the bacon cooks.
• Various utensils

Parchment paper – option, I use it for everything that goes in the oven.

How to Make Crown Maple Bacon Smokie Bites

1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a bowl combine the Crown Maple Sugar, pepper and cinnamon, set aside.
3. Cut bacon strips into 3rds (3 pieces, horizontal). Wrap each Little Smokie with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
4. Coat each little sausage with the sugar mixture. I just rolled each bite in the bowl.
5. Place individual bites on the cookie sheet.
6. Bake for 12 minutes. Flip each bite so the bacon cooks thoroughly on both sides. Bake for another 12-18 minutes, until bacon is crispy.
7. Remove from oven. Let the bites cool on the pan for at least 5 minutes before serving.

That's it!

If you use shrimp instead of mini sausages, make sure the shrimp is cooked thoroughly before removing from the oven.

Up next! I also made a maple syrup grilled salmon that I put on top of a simple romain salad and then topped with a maple syrup and vinegar drizzle. OH YUM! I'll share that recipe soon too.

If you want to learn more about Crown Maple, connect with them: Crown Maple Facebook, Crown Maple Twitter.

I'd love to hear if you try out this recipe or if you have a favorite recipe that uses Crown Maple. So delicious, try it if you haven't already!