Cocktail Weenie Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer
Cocktail weiners, those tiny sausages, are a party classic. They're incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to suit any taste. This recipe will guide you through making a delicious and easy cocktail weenie recipe that's sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is easily scalable, so feel free to adjust the quantities based on how many guests you're expecting.
- 1 pound cocktail weiners: Choose your favorite brand! Some prefer a natural casing for a more authentic snap.
- 1 cup ketchup: A classic choice, but feel free to experiment!
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard: Provides a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: A touch of acidity balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor without being overpowering.
- Optional additions: For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or a dash of your favorite BBQ sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This recipe is incredibly simple to follow, even for beginner cooks.
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the sauce thickens nicely and the weiners heat through evenly.
-
Combine the sauce ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder. If using any optional additions, add them now. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
-
Add the cocktail weiners: Gently toss the cocktail weiners in the sauce, ensuring they're evenly coated.
-
Bake: Spread the coated weiners in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly and become bubbly. You can also broil them for the last 2-3 minutes for a slightly crispier exterior, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
-
Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These are best served warm, but are still enjoyable at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Toothpicks: For easy grabbing and portioning.
- Miniature skewers: For a more elegant presentation.
- Alongside other appetizers: Pair them with chips, crackers, or other finger foods.
- As part of a larger meal: Serve them as part of a buffet or party spread.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the weiners are in a single layer for even cooking.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to find your perfect blend.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Reheating: Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
This simple cocktail weenie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
