Spicy Bacon
Spicy bacon-wrapped little smokies, called firecrackers, combine smoky, sweet, and heat in one bite. Seasoned with BBQ rub, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and hot honey, they're an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Spicy bacon-wrapped little smokies, called firecrackers, combine smoky, sweet, and heat in one bite. Seasoned with BBQ rub, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and hot honey, they're an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer.
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Preheat your oven or smoker to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the bacon slices into thirds.
Wrap each little smokie tightly with a piece of bacon.
Arrange the bacon-wrapped smokies in a single layer on a large sheet pan.
Sprinkle generously with your favorite BBQ seasoning.
Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the top.
Add red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.
Drizzle the hot honey over everything.
Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sugar is caramelized.
Serve warm, with an optional extra drizzle of hot honey.
Store cooled smokies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes until warmed through.
Cut bacon strips in half, wrap each piece around a smokie, and secure with a toothpick if needed. Arrange seam-side down on a baking sheet.
Yes. Wrap and season the smokies up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, then bake when ready. Reheat at 350°F for 5 minutes before serving.
Yes. Use sriracha mayo, spicy mustard, or a drizzle of cayenne-infused honey. Adjust heat level to taste.
Heat depends on red pepper flakes amount and hot honey brand. Start with 1 tsp flakes, taste, and increase if you prefer more kick.
