Sweet and savory bacon-wrapped smokies with a brown sugar glaze are a high protein, addictive party appetizer. This family-favorite finger food disappears fast at every gathering.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
Slice each bacon strip in half crosswise, making 24 shorter strips to match the number of smokies.
Wrap each cocktail sausage tightly with a half-strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick, placing seam-side down on the tray.
Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over each piece, lightly packing for best caramelization, and dust with ground black pepper for a hint of spice.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, rotating the tray halfway and broiling briefly at the end if more crispness is desired. Bacon should be deeply golden and glaze bubbling.