Pineapple Brown Sugar Mississippi Lil’ Smokies Bites

 

Ingredients:

• 1 package (14 oz) Lil’ Smokies (cocktail sausages)
• 1 lb (450 g) bacon, standard cut (not thick cut), cut into thirds
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly spray the rack with cooking spray.
2. Wrap each Lil’ Smokie with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
3. Add one pineapple chunk to each bacon-wrapped sausage, threading it onto the toothpick if desired.
4. Roll each piece generously in brown sugar and place on the prepared rack.
5. Sprinkle any remaining brown sugar over the tops.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until bacon is cooked through and sugar is bubbly and caramelized.
7. For extra caramelization, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Tips

• Serve warm straight from the oven or keep warm in a slow cooker on low.
• Provide extra toothpicks for easy grabbing.
• Great for game day, holidays, and potlucks.

Variations

• Add a light sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar for sweet heat.
• Substitute honey or maple sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Brush with a little barbecue sauce during the last 5 minutes for a smoky glaze.