Bacon–Brown Sugar Smokies

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Yield: Makes about 30 smokies | Prep Time: 30 to 40 minutes, plus 3 hours chill time | Cook Time: 10 to 15 minutes

The combination of salty and sweet makes this New Year’s appetizer a grand slam. Make sure to get fancy toothpicks if you want to be extra festive.

INGREDIENTS

Dip

½ cup barbecue sauce

½ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup packed light brown sugar

Smokies

¼ cup barbecue sauce

¼ cup packed light brown sugar

1 pound thick-cut bacon

1 (14-ounce) package all-beef smoked cocktail sausages

Toothpicks

DIRECTIONS

1. For the dip: In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, mayonnaise, and brown sugar. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

2. For the smokies: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.

3. Place the barbecue sauce in a small, shallow bowl and the sugar in a separate small, shallow bowl. Cut the bacon slices into thirds, widthwise.

4. Roll each smokie in the barbecue sauce and then the brown sugar. Wrap each smokie with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 5 to 7 minutes. Flip the smokies and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.

5. Serve with the dip.