The Best Slow-Cooker Little Smokies

Drescription

We took this quick and easy slow-cooker classic and gave it a little update--apple jelly stands in for the grape jelly and pairs perfectly with the maple syrup and tart cider vinegar. A splash of bourbon adds a grown-up note to this party favorite. You can use either the pork or beef variety of smoked cocktail sausages.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple jelly
• 1/3 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 chipotle chile in adobo, chopped, plus 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
• two 14-ounce packages smoked cocktail sausages

Directions

1. Add the ketchup, apple jelly, bourbon, maple syrup, cider vinegar, smoked paprika and chipotle and adobo sauce to a 6-quart slow cooker and whisk to make a smooth sauce. Add the sausages and toss to coat in the sauce.
2. Cover with the lid and cook on high for 3 hours, then uncover and continue to cook on high until the sauce is bubbling and has thickened slightly, about 30 minutes. Set the slow cooker to warm for serving.