Prepare to elevate your breakfast and brunch experiences with a dish that perfectly marries the irresistible allure of sweet and savory: these incredible Bacon-Wrapped Sausages with a Maple Pumpkin Glaze. Imagine the crisp, salty embrace of perfectly cooked bacon, hugging a tender, juicy breakfast sausage, all brought together by a glistening, aromatic glaze infused with the warm, comforting spices of fall. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a centerpiece, a conversation starter, and an absolute crowd-pleaser that promises to vanish from your serving platter in mere moments. Forget choosing between bacon and sausage; with this recipe, you get to indulge in the best of both worlds, enhanced by a seasonal twist that makes every bite an unforgettable delight.
The Irresistible Allure of Bacon-Wrapped Sausages with Maple Pumpkin Glaze
The concept of bacon-wrapped sausages is already a stroke of culinary genius. It’s a harmonious pairing that takes two breakfast staples and combines them into one convenient, flavor-packed bite. But why stop at good when you can achieve extraordinary? This recipe takes that classic combination to an entirely new level with a luxurious maple pumpkin spice glaze. This isn’t just a simple addition; it’s a transformative element that coats each sausage and bacon strip with a shimmering, aromatic layer of sweetness, depth, and autumn-inspired warmth. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a sticky, slightly chewy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the crispy bacon and tender sausage. It’s a sophisticated flavor profile that remains incredibly approachable, making it a guaranteed hit for any occasion.
A Perfect Addition to Any Breakfast or Brunch Spread
I recently had the pleasure of serving these incredible bacon-wrapped sausages at a “Pumpkin Palooza” brunch I hosted, and they were an instant sensation. They provided the perfect balance to a table laden with sweet and savory treats, garnering rave reviews from every guest. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its exceptional taste but also in its versatility. While ideal for a leisurely brunch, these bacon-wrapped delights are equally fantastic for a hearty family breakfast, a holiday gathering, or even as an upscale appetizer for a fall-themed party. Their individual portion size makes them easy to serve and even easier to enjoy, eliminating the need for plates and cutlery if you’re hosting a more casual affair. They truly embody the spirit of festive eating without the fuss.
Effortless Preparation for Delicious Results
Despite their gourmet appeal, preparing these Maple Pumpkin Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Sausages is surprisingly straightforward, making them an excellent choice for feeding a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. The process begins with selecting your ingredients. Opt for thick-cut bacon, as it provides a sturdier wrap and a more satisfying chew once cooked. For the sausages, small breakfast links work best, as they are perfectly portioned for wrapping and ensure even cooking. The simple act of wrapping each breakfast sausage in half a slice of thick-cut bacon, secured with a toothpick, is quick and meditative. This foundational step ensures that every sausage is enveloped in that smoky, savory goodness, setting the stage for the magic of the glaze.
The Secret to Irresistible Flavor: Maple Pumpkin Spice Glaze
Once your sausages are neatly wrapped and lined up on a baking sheet, it’s time for the star of the show: the maple pumpkin spice glaze. This rich, aromatic concoction is incredibly easy to whip up, requiring just pure maple syrup, brown sugar, and a dash of pumpkin pie spice. Whisking these three ingredients together creates a luscious, fragrant mixture that truly captures the essence of autumn. The first application of this glaze is crucial. You’ll brush half of the mixture generously over each bacon-wrapped sausage, ensuring every crevice is coated. This initial layer begins to caramelize as the dish bakes, infusing the bacon and sausage with its sweet and spicy notes. As the tray goes into the preheated oven, the transformation begins, filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma that promises something truly special.
Achieving Crispy Perfection and a Golden Brown Finish
The two-stage glazing process is what truly sets this recipe apart. After the initial 15 minutes of baking, the sausages are removed from the oven, and the remaining half of the maple pumpkin spice glaze is brushed over them. This second layer ensures a deep, vibrant flavor and a truly beautiful, glossy finish. As they return to the oven for another 15-20 minutes, the heat works its magic. The bacon renders and crisps up to golden-brown perfection, developing that irresistible crunch. The glaze continues to thicken and caramelize, creating a delectable candied coating that clings to every piece. The goal is perfectly cooked sausages, crispy bacon, and a wonderfully sticky, sweet-savory glaze that hints at pumpkin and maple. The aroma alone will have everyone eagerly anticipating the moment these delectable bites are ready to be devoured.
Every time I serve these, they receive such overwhelmingly positive feedback. Guests are always impressed by the ingenious combination of sausage wrapped in bacon, and then utterly enchanted by the unique, fall-inspired glaze. It’s a simple idea executed with brilliant flavor, transforming everyday ingredients into something truly special. For me, brunch just wouldn’t be complete without these delightful bites. They’re a testament to how a little creativity can elevate a classic dish into an unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy every single savory, sweet, and perfectly spiced bite!
Tips for Crafting the Ultimate Bacon-Wrapped Sausages
To ensure your Bacon-Wrapped Sausages with Maple Pumpkin Glaze turn out absolutely perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Choose Your Bacon Wisely: As mentioned, thick-cut bacon is preferred. Its robust texture holds up better during baking and yields a more satisfyingly crispy result. Thin bacon might cook too quickly or become brittle.
- Select the Right Sausages: Small, pre-cooked breakfast sausage links are ideal for this recipe. Their consistent size ensures even cooking and they wrap easily. If using raw sausages, ensure they are cooked through before serving.
- Perfecting the Glaze: Don’t be shy with the glaze! Ensure an even coating on all sides during both applications. This is key for developing that beautiful caramelized crust and infusing maximum flavor. For a richer pumpkin flavor, you can add a tiny pinch more pumpkin pie spice, but be careful not to overpower the maple.
- Toothpick Tips: Always use wooden toothpicks, and it’s a good idea to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before use. This prevents them from burning and charring in the oven, keeping your presentation neat. Insert them firmly to secure the bacon, but ensure they can be easily removed before serving.
- Baking Sheet Prep: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. The glaze can get sticky and burn onto the pan, so this simple step will save you a lot of scrubbing. Make sure to spray it with non-stick cooking spray even with parchment, just to be extra safe.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give each bacon-wrapped sausage enough space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping, resulting in soggy bacon. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations
These versatile bites are fantastic on their own, but they also shine as part of a larger spread:
- Classic Brunch Pairings: Serve them alongside fluffy scrambled eggs, golden pancakes or waffles, fresh fruit salad, and a steaming pot of coffee. They provide a delightful savory counterpoint to sweeter dishes.
- Holiday Feast Enhancer: The maple and pumpkin spice flavors make them perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas morning breakfast or brunch. They add a festive touch without being overly complicated.
- Appetizer Extravaganza: Arrange them artfully on a platter with other finger foods for a party. Their bite-sized nature makes them excellent for mingling and snacking.
- Spice It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the maple pumpkin glaze. This introduces a subtle heat that beautifully complements the sweetness and savoriness.
- Herbaceous Twist: Consider adding a tiny bit of finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an earthy, aromatic note.
- Different Glaze Flavors: While the maple pumpkin glaze is divine, you could experiment with other glazes like a honey-mustard, a spicy apricot, or a brown sugar and bourbon glaze for different flavor profiles.
- Alternate Sausages: While breakfast sausages are classic, you could try chicken apple sausages for a leaner option, or even vegetarian sausages for a plant-based alternative (ensure they hold up to wrapping and baking).
Make-Ahead and Storage Solutions
One of the many advantages of this recipe is its make-ahead potential, which is a lifesaver for busy mornings or when entertaining.
- Preparing in Advance: You can wrap the sausages in bacon and secure them with toothpicks up to 24 hours in advance. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge, brush with the glaze, and proceed with the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the initial bake time if needed, as they will be baking from a colder temperature.
- Storing Leftovers: Cooked bacon-wrapped sausages can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The bacon might lose some of its crispiness, but the flavors will still be delicious.
- Reheating Instructions: To reheat, arrange the sausages on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon crisps up again. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, though the bacon won’t be as crispy.
These Bacon-Wrapped Sausages with a Maple Pumpkin Glaze are more than just a recipe; they are an experience. They embody comfort, flavor, and a touch of seasonal magic, all wrapped up in one perfect bite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat your family to an extraordinary morning meal, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite in your repertoire. Its ease of preparation combined with its unforgettable taste makes it an essential addition to any home cook’s collection. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate sweet and savory indulgence!
xoxo,
This recipe was created as part of my partnership with Kroger however thoughts and opinions are certainly my own!
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Bacon-Wrapped Sausages with a Maple Pumpkin Spice Glaze
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Author: Maegan – The BakerMama
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Yield: 14
Category: Breakfast
Description
The sweetness of the glaze and the savoriness of the meats makes these Bacon-Wrapped Sausages with a Maple Pumpkin Glaze an irresistible accompaniment to breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 7 long slices thick-cut bacon, cut in half
- 14 small breakfast sausages
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Kroger pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray a large rimmed baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
- Wrap a half of a slice of bacon around each sausage and secure with a toothpick. Place on prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Brush half of the glaze evenly over the bacon-wrapped sausages, coating the tops and sides of each one.
- Place the baking sheet on the top rack of the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Remove bacon-wrapped sausages from the oven and brush evenly with remaining glaze. Return to oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes or until bacon is browned and crisp.
- Transfer bacon-wrapped sausages to a serving platter to serve.