Sweet and Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Cocktail Franks
Indulge in these delectable Sweet and Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Cocktail Franks, a crowd-pleasing appetizer that is bursting with flavor. Perfect for parties, game day, or family gatherings, these bite-sized treats are easy to prepare yet offer an impressive taste experience. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tangy ketchup provides a delightful contrast that will have your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy this simple recipe that's sure to become a staple at your entertaining events.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
small cocktail franks
27 (none)
bacon
9 slices (cut into thirds)
dark brown sugar
1/3 cup (none)
ketchup
1/3 cup (none)
cayenne pepper
1 pinch (optional) (to taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Grease a baking sheet or line it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3
Cut each slice of bacon into thirds, creating 27 pieces.
4
Carefully wrap each piece of bacon around a small cocktail frank, ensuring they are fully encased.
5
Arrange the bacon-wrapped franks on the prepared baking sheet.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the bacon starts to crisp.
7
While the franks are baking, combine the brown sugar and ketchup in a small bowl, mixing until thick and well combined.
8
After 10 minutes, remove the franks from the oven and carefully brush about 1 teaspoon of the ketchup and brown sugar mixture onto each one.
9
Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp but not overcooked.
10
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sweet and Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Cocktail Franks?
They are a crowd-pleasing appetizer consisting of small cocktail franks wrapped in bacon and glazed with a sweet and tangy mixture of brown sugar and ketchup.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need 27 small cocktail franks, 9 slices of bacon, 1/3 cup dark brown sugar, 1/3 cup ketchup, and an optional pinch of cayenne pepper.
How many pieces of bacon should I have after cutting?
By cutting 9 slices of bacon into thirds, you will have 27 pieces to match the number of cocktail franks.
What temperature should the oven be preheated to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How do I prepare the baking sheet for this recipe?
You should grease the baking sheet or line it with aluminum foil to ensure easy cleanup.
How do I wrap the cocktail franks?
Carefully wrap each piece of bacon around a small cocktail frank until they are fully encased.
How long is the initial baking time?
Bake the wrapped franks for about 10 minutes or until the bacon begins to crisp.
What is in the glaze mixture?
The glaze is a combination of dark brown sugar and ketchup mixed until thick.
How much glaze should I apply to each frank?
Brush approximately 1 teaspoon of the ketchup and brown sugar mixture onto each bacon-wrapped frank.
What is the final baking time?
After glazing, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the bacon is crisp.
Can I make these spicy?
Yes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze mixture for a spicy kick.
Are these suitable for a party?
Absolutely, they are perfect for parties, game days, and family gatherings as a finger food appetizer.
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Yes, light brown sugar can be used, though dark brown sugar provides a deeper molasses flavor.
What type of bacon is best?
Standard sliced bacon works best as it is easy to wrap and crisps up well within the baking time.
Should I use toothpicks?
While not strictly required if wrapped carefully, you can use toothpicks to secure the bacon if it seems to be unrolling.
How long should I let them cool?
Let them cool slightly after removing from the oven so the glaze sets and they are safe to handle.
Can I use regular hot dogs for this recipe?
Yes, you can cut regular hot dogs into bite-sized pieces and follow the same instructions.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
The flavor is a delightful contrast of smoky bacon, sweet sugar, and tangy ketchup.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe with simple steps and minimal ingredients.
How many cocktail franks does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 27 bacon-wrapped cocktail franks.
What are some tags for this recipe?
Tags include appetizer, bacon, cocktail wieners, party food, finger food, and savory snacks.
Do I need to precook the bacon?
No, the bacon cooks while wrapped around the franks in the oven.
Can I prepare these in advance?
You can wrap the franks in bacon ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to bake and glaze.
Is there a specific way to arrange them on the pan?
Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet ensuring they are not touching for even crisping.
How do I know when they are finished?
They are finished when the bacon is crisp and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
Can I use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup?
Yes, replacing ketchup with BBQ sauce will work well and add even more smoky flavor.
Are these cocktail franks gluten-free?
This depends on the specific brands of cocktail franks, bacon, and ketchup used; always check labels if dietary restrictions apply.
What is the serving size?
While not specified, a typical serving is 3 to 4 franks per person as an appetizer.
Can I bake these at a higher temperature for faster results?
It is recommended to stick to 350°F so the bacon fat renders and the sugar in the glaze doesn't burn.
How should I serve these?
Serve them warm on a platter, perhaps with extra toothpicks for easy grabbing by guests.