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If you’re looking for an easy and delicious appetizer that will impress your guests, look no further than Crockpot Apple Butter BBQ Little Smokies. This recipe combines the rich flavors of apple butter and barbecue sauce, enveloping juicy little sausages for a delightful treat that’s perfect for gatherings or game day. I’ve personally made this dish for my family gatherings, and every time, I’m asked for the secret recipe! You may also find Crockpot Apple Butter Bbq Pulled Chicken 3 useful.

Why make this recipe

There are many reasons to love these Little Smokies. First and foremost, they are incredibly simple to prepare and require minimal ingredients. Just a package of Hillshire Farm Lit’l Smokies, apple butter, and barbecue sauce, and you’re set! This dish transcends the ordinary; it’s not just another snack—it’s a sweet and savory explosion that will keep everyone coming back for more. You may also find Crockpot Apple Butter Bbq Pulled Chicken 4 useful.

"I made these for my son’s birthday party and they were a hit! Everyone loved the combination of apple and barbecue flavors. I’ll definitely make them again!" — Happy Party Planner

Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also cater to a wide variety of tastes, making them suitable for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a casual movie night. If you’re in need of more slow-cooker inspiration, check out this pulled chicken recipe that also features robust flavors.

How to make Crockpot Apple Butter BBQ Little Smokies

Making Crockpot Apple Butter BBQ Little Smokies is a breeze! Here’s a quick overview of the steps involved.

Gather all your ingredients and place the Little Smokies in the slow cooker.
Pour the apple butter and barbecue sauce over the sausages.
Stir everything together until the sausages are well-coated.
Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours, stirring halfway through for even flavor distribution.
Serve straight from the slow cooker or transfer to a platter for easy serving.

Ingredients

• What you’ll need

For this delightful dish, you will require:

28 oz package Hillshire Farm Lit’l Smokies
1 cup apple butter
1 cup barbecue sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s is recommended for optimal flavor)

You can also consider adjustments based on your preferences. For instance, if you love a kick, adding a dash of cayenne pepper might elevate the flavors even more!

Directions

Crockpot Apple Butter BBQ Little Smokies served on a platter

• Step-by-step instructions

To prepare these tasty bites, follow these clear steps:

Begin by adding the Lit’l Smokies into the bowl of your slow cooker.
Pour in the cup of apple butter, followed by the barbecue sauce.
Stir the mixture to ensure all the sausages are fully coated with the sauce mixture.
Cover the slow cooker and set it on high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours. If possible, give it a stir halfway through cooking.
Finally, serve the Little Smokies warm, either directly from the slow cooker or on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.

How to serve Crockpot Apple Butter BBQ Little Smokies

When it comes to serving these delicious little sausages, the options are plentiful! Serve them on a festive platter with colorful toothpicks for easy grabs, or place a bowl of them in the center of your table for a casual gathering. Pair them with some fresh veggie sticks or a light salad to balance out the dish.

You could also consider offering a range of dipping sauces on the side, including extra barbecue sauce or mustard, for those who like a bit of variety.

How to store

• Storage and reheating tips

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is quite straightforward. Place the Little Smokies in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They should last for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them gently in the microwave or back in the slow cooker, adding a splash of barbecue sauce to prevent them from drying out.

For longer storage, these sausages can also be frozen. Just ensure you let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They will keep well in the freezer for about a month.

Tips to make

• Helpful cooking tips

To enhance your experience with this recipe, here are a couple of tips:

Consider making your own apple butter if you have the time! Homemade versions can bring a fresh taste to your dish.
Experiment with different barbecue sauces to find the blend you love best. Each sauce will impart its unique flavor, which can be a fun way to change things up.

Variations

• Creative twists

There are countless ways to customize your Crockpot Apple Butter BBQ Little Smokies. Some substitutes include:

Instead of barbecue sauce, try using a spicy chili sauce for a kick.
Add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat.
If you want to make them healthier, consider using turkey sausages in place of the traditional ones.

FAQs

How long do the Little Smokies take to cook?

Little Smokies usually take about 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low in a slow cooker.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can certainly use different sausages, like turkey or pork, as long as you adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

You can serve leftovers cold or warmed up in the microwave or slow cooker with additional barbecue sauce.

Conclusion

In summary, Crockpot Apple Butter BBQ Little Smokies are a fantastic choice for your next gathering. They are easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. For additional inspiration, you can check out this easy appetizer recipe or try Apple Butter Little Smokies for a delightful twist. Lastly, don’t miss Apple Barbecue Slow Cooker Little Smokies, which adds a unique flair to this beloved snack! Enjoy your cooking!