If you are on the hunt for a crowd-pleaser that effortlessly combines sweet, smoky, and boozy flavors, you have to try the Brown Sugar Bourbon Smokies Recipe. This dish is a personal favorite for gatherings, offering bite-sized smoky sausages drenched in a luscious sauce made from brown sugar and bourbon. Each little smokie gets perfectly coated, resulting in a sticky-sweet glaze that has everyone reaching for seconds. Whether it’s game day, a casual party, or just a special treat, this recipe brings an irresistible warmth and soulful flavor that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a crucial role in developing the rich, layered flavor and tempting texture that make this dish unforgettable. From the caramel notes of brown sugar to the smooth kick of bourbon, each component contributes to the perfect balance in this smokey-sweet delight.
- 24 ounces little smokies: The star of the show, their smoky flavor and cocktail size make them perfect for finger foods.
- 1 cup light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and depth with its molasses undertones, helping to caramelize the sauce.
- 3 ounces bourbon whiskey: Brings a warm, boozy note that elevates the overall taste without overpowering.
- ½ cup ketchup: Provides tanginess and adds body to the sauce for a balanced finish.
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder: Offers a subtle hint of spice and complexity that cuts through the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and richness, enhancing the meaty flavor of the smokies.
How to Make Brown Sugar Bourbon Smokies Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
Begin by placing the little smokies into your crockpot, then add the light brown sugar, bourbon whiskey, ketchup, dry mustard powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together gently until each smokie is evenly coated in the sticky sauce. This step ensures every bite will have that delightful blend of smoky, sweet, and boozy flavors.
Step 2: Slow Cook for 2 Hours
Set your crockpot to high heat and let this magical mixture cook for about two hours. This slow cooking allows the sugars to melt and caramelize around the smokies, while the bourbon infuses deeply, creating a rich glaze that clings lovingly to each sausage. It’s the ultimate “low and slow” technique that delivers maximum flavor and the perfect sticky texture.
How to Serve Brown Sugar Bourbon Smokies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives brings a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note that cuts through the sweetness beautifully. You might also consider a few red pepper flakes if you want to introduce just a hint of heat to your savory bites.
Side Dishes
These smokies pair wonderfully with classic party sides like crusty bread, creamy coleslaw, or even a fresh garden salad to provide a crisp contrast. If you’re feeling indulgent, serving with warm soft pretzels or cheesy mashed potatoes elevates the experience even further.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, skewer the smokies with small cocktail sticks and arrange them on a platter with little bowls of mustard or ranch for dipping. Serving them in mini bread bowls or over a bed of baked beans also makes for a visually appealing and hearty appetizer station that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Brown Sugar Bourbon Smokies in an airtight container and refrigerate them promptly. They will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining their flavor and texture, making them perfect for quick snacks or lunches the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep these smoky treats for longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool them completely before freezing to preserve the delicious sauce.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated smokies gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid burning the sauce. Alternatively, warming them in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel helps keep the sausages moist and the glaze sticky and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausages instead of little smokies?
Absolutely! While little smokies are the classic choice for this recipe, you can substitute with cocktail sausages or any small, pre-cooked sausages that suit your taste. Just adjust cooking time if needed to ensure they are heated through and nicely glazed.
Is the bourbon flavor very strong in this recipe?
The bourbon adds a subtle warmth and depth rather than a strong alcoholic punch, as most of the alcohol cooks off during the slow cooking process. It complements the sweetness of the brown sugar and tanginess of the ketchup perfectly.
Can this recipe be made in an oven instead of a crockpot?
Yes! You can bake the mixture in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and glazing. Just keep an eye on the sauce to prevent burning.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Brown Sugar Bourbon Smokies Recipe is more sweet and savory than spicy. However, you can easily add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you like a bit of heat to balance the sweetness.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely. The sauce can be mixed ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a day. When ready to cook, simply combine it with the smokies in the crockpot and follow the steps as usual for a speedy prep.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your guests with something simple yet irresistibly tasty, the Brown Sugar Bourbon Smokies Recipe is your new go-to. Its perfect harmony of sweet, smoky, and boozy notes makes it a timeless crowd favorite. I encourage you to give it a try for your next get-together — it’s comfort food elevated with a bit of flair that everyone will adore.
Print
Brown Sugar Bourbon Smokies Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 14 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Brown Sugar Bourbon Smokies are a delightful appetizer featuring little smokies simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce made from brown sugar, bourbon whiskey, ketchup, dry mustard powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Cooked in a crockpot, this easy-to-make recipe results in tender, flavorful smokies perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 24 ounces little smokies (2 packages)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 3 ounces bourbon whiskey
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the little smokies, light brown sugar, bourbon whiskey, ketchup, dry mustard powder, and Worcestershire sauce to a crockpot. Stir all ingredients well until the smokies are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Cook: Set the crockpot to high heat and cook for 2 hours. Stir occasionally if possible, until the smokies are tender and the sauce is thickened and bubbly. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a milder bourbon flavor, reduce the amount of bourbon whisky slightly.
- You can prepare this recipe in advance and keep it warm in the crockpot for serving at parties.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure the Worcestershire sauce used is gluten-free.
- Stir occasionally during cooking for more even flavor distribution.
- This dish pairs well with crackers or toothpicks for easy serving.
