Honey Cider Glazed Smoked Sausage
Indulge in the delightful flavors of honey cider glazed smoked sausage, a perfect blend of sweet and savory that will tantalize your taste buds. Infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this dish serves as an impressive appetizer for gatherings or a quick and satisfying dinner option for busy weeknights. The rich glaze elevates the delicious smoked sausage, creating a dish that is both comforting and crowd-pleasing.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Brown Sugar
1/4 cup (packed)
Cornstarch
1 tablespoon (none)
Cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
Nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon (ground)
Ground Cloves
1/8 teaspoon (ground)
Apple Juice or Cider
1 cup (none)
Smoked Link Sausage
2 lbs (cut into chunks)
Instructions
1
In a large frying pan, combine the brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves.
2
Gradually stir in the apple juice or cider, mixing well. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
3
While the glaze is thickening, cut the smoked link sausages into bite-sized chunks.
4
Once the glaze is ready, add the sausage chunks to the pan, ensuring they are evenly coated with the glaze.
5
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sausages are heated thoroughly and infused with the sweet glaze.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Honey Cider Glazed Smoked Sausage?
Honey Cider Glazed Smoked Sausage is a sweet and savory dish featuring smoked sausage chunks tossed in a thickened glaze made of apple cider, brown sugar, and warm spices.
What are the main ingredients for the glaze?
The glaze is made from brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and apple juice or cider.
What type of sausage should I use for this recipe?
You should use smoked link sausages, such as kielbasa or any other pre-cooked smoked variety.
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes, either apple juice or apple cider can be used interchangeably in this recipe with great results.
How long does it take to cook this dish?
The total cooking time is approximately 15 to 20 minutes, including thickening the glaze and heating the sausages.
Is this recipe suitable for a party appetizer?
Yes, it is an excellent party appetizer that is both crowd-pleasing and easy to serve with toothpicks.
How do I thicken the cider glaze?
The glaze is thickened by whisking cornstarch with the dry ingredients and cider, then heating it until it bubbles.
What spices are used in the Honey Cider Glazed Smoked Sausage?
The recipe uses cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves to provide a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and heat on low for 2-3 hours once the glaze has been mixed.
How should the smoked sausage be prepared?
The smoked link sausages should be cut into bite-sized chunks before being added to the glaze.
Is this recipe sweet or spicy?
This recipe is primarily sweet and savory, though it contains warm spices; it is not typically considered spicy hot.
Can I use turkey smoked sausage?
Yes, turkey smoked sausage is a great lower-fat alternative that works well with the honey cider glaze.
What is the best way to serve these sausages for dinner?
For a full meal, serve the glazed sausages over white rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted vegetables.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the glazed sausages?
Yes, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months, though the glaze texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Can I substitute the brown sugar with honey?
Yes, you can substitute honey for brown sugar, though the flavor will have a more distinct floral honey note.
Does this recipe require a lot of prep work?
No, the prep work is minimal, primarily involving measuring the spices and cutting the sausage links.
Can I add red pepper flakes for heat?
Absolutely, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes will create a 'sweet and heat' flavor profile.
What kind of pan should I use?
A large frying pan or skillet is best to allow the glaze to thicken properly and provide enough room for the sausage chunks.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Using 2 lbs of sausage typically serves about 6-8 people as an appetizer or 4-5 as a main course.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you ensure your smoked sausage brand and cornstarch are certified gluten-free.
Can I use fresh cloves instead of ground cloves?
Ground cloves are recommended for a smooth glaze, but you could use whole cloves and remove them before serving.
What if my glaze is too thick?
If the glaze becomes too thick, simply stir in a tablespoon or two of extra apple juice or water to thin it out.
Should the pan be covered while cooking?
Yes, covering the pan for the final 5-10 minutes helps the sausages heat through and soak up the glaze.
Can I use a different type of juice?
Pear juice or pineapple juice could be used as alternatives, though it will significantly change the flavor of the dish.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweet glaze and familiar sausage chunks make it a very popular choice for children.
Can I double the recipe for a large party?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients; just ensure you use a large enough pot or high-sided skillet.
Do I need to cook the sausage before adding it to the glaze?
No, since smoked sausages are usually pre-cooked, they only need to be heated through in the glaze.
Can I add onions or peppers to this dish?
Yes, sautéing sliced onions or bell peppers before making the glaze adds extra texture and flavor.
What is the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water, or in the microwave in short intervals until warmed through.