Lil' Wienies
Sweet and savory Lil' Wienies feature mini hot dogs wrapped in bacon and coated with brown sugar, making them perfect for parties and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut hot dogs into four sections and bacon slices into four sections.
- Wrap bacon sections around hot dog sections and secure with toothpicks.
- Place the wrapped hot dogs in a crock-pot and pack brown sugar firmly on top.
- Cook on high for 3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using turkey or chicken hot dogs instead of pork for a lighter version. If you want a smoky flavor, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the brown sugar. You can also substitute maple syrup for brown sugar for a unique sweetness. Be sure to check the bacon for even cooking, as different brands may cook at different rates.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Lil' Wienies as a fun appetizer for parties or game day, pairing them with mustard or BBQ sauce for dipping. They also go well with sides like Bacon Green Beans for a savory touch. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a salad or some crunchy veggies to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Lil' Wienies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, which helps maintain their crispy bacon texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lil' Wienies contains roughly 418 calories, with 9g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 563mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare Lil' Wienies in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the wrapped hot dogs a day in advance. Simply assemble them, place them in the crock-pot, and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. Just remember to add the brown sugar right before cooking for the best results.
What can I use instead of toothpicks?
If you don't have toothpicks on hand, you can use small pieces of uncooked spaghetti or even small skewers to secure the bacon around the hot dogs. Just ensure they are safe to eat and won't break off during cooking.
Can I make these in the oven instead of a crock-pot?
Absolutely! You can bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Just arrange the wrapped hot dogs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to avoid sticking and for easier cleanup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).