Cranberry Little Smokies

Name: Cranberry Little Smokies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (14 oz) package Little Smokies sausages; 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought); ½ cup BBQ sauce; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 tsp onion powder

Published: November 27, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Cranberry Little Smokies

This incredible Cranberry Little Smokies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cranberry Little Smokies:

Little Smokies Sausages: These bite-sized sausages are the star of the show! Choose pre-cooked varieties for convenience.
Cranberry Sauce: Opt for homemade or store-bought; both will bring that sweet-tart flavor balance to your dish.
BBQ Sauce: Any brand you love works here. It adds depth and blends beautifully with the cranberry.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener caramelizes during cooking, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Onion Powder: A dash of onion powder brings savory notes to complement the sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Cranberry Little Smokies:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that glorious heat builds up, grab a baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray—nobody wants their little smokies going rogue!

Step 2: Mix Up That Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and onion powder until it’s all blended like best friends at a reunion. The mixture should be smooth and fragrant enough to make your mouth water.

Step 3: Coat Those Sausages

Place your little smokies in the greased baking dish and pour that beautiful sauce over them. Make sure each sausage gets its fair share of love by tossing them gently in the sauce.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop those saucy little gems into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bubble away; you want them heated through and slightly caramelized on top.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a hot minute (pun intended). Then transfer those delectable sausages onto a serving platter. If you’re feeling fancy (and why not?), drizzle some extra sauce over the top.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Grab some toothpicks or cocktail skewers if you’re feeling extra classy and serve these scrumptious little bites warm at your next gathering. They’ll be gone before you can say “Cranberry Little Smokies!”

Now that you know how to whip up these mouthwatering treats, get ready to impress your guests with flavors that are sure to spark joy and keep everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Whether it’s game day munching or holiday cheer you’re after, these Cranberry Little Smokies are bound to be the highlight of any table!

You Must Know About Cranberry Little Smokies

This showstopping Cranberry Little Smokies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve delectable Cranberry Little Smokies, start by browning the little smokies in a pan for maximum flavor. While they sizzle, mix your cranberry sauce and spices in a bowl, then combine everything in the skillet to let those flavors meld beautifully.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to get playful with your Cranberry Little Smokies! Swap out the cranberry sauce for barbecue sauce if you’re feeling bold, or add chili flakes for a spicy kick. You can even toss in some chopped onions for extra texture and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Cranberry Little Smokies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the microwave until heated through, ensuring they stay juicy.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Cranberry Little Smokies

This professional-quality Cranberry Little Smokies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I whip up these Cranberry Little Smokies just to see my friends light up like kids at a candy store. They never can resist asking for my “secret ingredient,” which I just wink at and say is pure love (and a touch of garlic powder).

FAQs

What is Cranberry Little Smokies?

Cranberry Little Smokies are a delicious party appetizer made with cocktail sausages simmered in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. This dish typically combines the savory flavor of the sausages with the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful balance that pleases any crowd. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, game days, or any casual get-together. Easy to prepare, these smoky treats can be served warm or at room temperature, making them an ideal choice for entertaining.

How do you make Cranberry Little Smokies?

Making Cranberry Little Smokies is simple and quick. Start by combining a can of cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and your choice of spices in a slow cooker. Add the little smokies and stir well to coat them in the sauce. Cook on low for several hours until heated through. This method ensures that the sausages absorb all the flavors from the sauce, resulting in a mouthwatering appetizer everyone will love.

Can I make Cranberry Little Smokies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cranberry Little Smokies ahead of time! Simply cook them as instructed and let them cool before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them gently on the stovetop or in a slow cooker until warmed through. This convenience allows you to enjoy more time with your guests during parties and gatherings.

What dishes pair well with Cranberry Little Smokies?

Cranberry Little Smokies pair wonderfully with various dishes. They complement cheese platters, vegetable trays, and charcuterie boards exceptionally well. You can also serve them alongside dips like ranch or onion dip for added flavor. For beverages, consider serving cocktails or sparkling drinks that enhance the sweetness of the cranberry sauce while balancing the savory notes of the sausages.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cranberry Little Smokies are a fantastic treat for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday party or a casual gathering. With their sweet and savory flavor profile, they appeal to many tastes and preferences. Easy to prepare and versatile for serving options, these little delights will surely impress your guests. Don’t hesitate to whip up this crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next event!

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