Easy 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Cocktail Weenies: Sweet and Savory Party Appetizer

Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Cocktail Weenies

Looking for the perfect party appetizer that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor? These cocktail weenies are exactly what you need! With just three simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to disappear quickly at your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love These Cocktail Weenies

• Simple ingredients – Just 3 items needed!
• Hands-off cooking – Let your slow cooker do the work
• Perfect for parties – Always a crowd-pleaser
• Sweet and savory flavor profile – Irresistibly delicious
• Make-ahead friendly – Prep early and enjoy later

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 (14-ounce) packages mini smoked sausages or cocktail wieners
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite brand)
• 1 cup grape jelly

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker (3-4 quart size works well)
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon
• Serving dish and toothpicks for serving

How to Make Slow Cooker Cocktail Weenies

1. Add the barbecue sauce and grape jelly to your slow cooker. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the cocktail sausages to the slow cooker and stir until they’re completely coated in the sauce mixture.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even coating.
4. Once heated through, reduce heat to the WARM setting to keep them hot during serving.
5. Serve directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving dish with toothpicks for easy grabbing.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cocktail Weenies

• Choose your BBQ sauce wisely: The flavor of your BBQ sauce will significantly impact the final taste. Use a smoky sauce for depth or a sweeter one if you prefer.
• Don’t skip the jelly: While it might sound unusual, the grape jelly is essential for that perfect sweet-savory balance.
• Keep them warm: These little bites are best served hot, so keep them in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting during your event.
• Drain if desired: If you prefer less sauce, you can drain some of it before serving.
• Pat dry before cooking: For better sauce adhesion, pat the cocktail sausages dry with paper towels before adding them to the slow cooker.

Delicious Variations to Try

• Spicy Cocktail Weenies: Add 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the mixture.
• Honey Garlic Version: Substitute the grape jelly with honey and add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic.
• Bourbon BBQ: Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the sauce mixture for an adult twist.
• Apricot Glazed: Use apricot preserves instead of grape jelly for a different fruity note.
• Asian-Inspired: Replace the BBQ sauce with a mixture of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and a touch of honey.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious cocktail weenies with toothpicks for easy grabbing. They pair perfectly with:

• A variety of dipping sauces (extra BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch)
• Cubed cheese and crackers
• Vegetable crudités to balance the richness
• Soft pretzel bites for a fun combination

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cocktail weenies are perfect for preparing in advance:

• Make-Ahead: You can combine all ingredients in the slow cooker insert up to 24 hours ahead, store in the refrigerator, and then cook when ready.
• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat: Warm leftovers in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.
• Freeze: These freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cocktail Weenies

Can I make these cocktail weenies on the stovetop?

Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a large pot or Dutch oven and simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

What can I substitute for grape jelly?

If you don’t have grape jelly, you can use apricot preserves, orange marmalade, or cranberry sauce as substitutes. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile but will work well with the BBQ sauce.

Can I use regular-sized hot dogs cut into pieces?

Yes! If you can’t find cocktail sausages, you can slice regular hot dogs or smoked sausages into bite-sized pieces.

How do I prevent the sauce from burning?

Make sure to stir occasionally and keep the slow cooker on LOW. If your slow cooker runs hot, you may want to check more frequently or add a splash of water if the sauce is getting too thick.

Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, holiday party, or family movie night, these delicious slow cooker cocktail weenies are guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce and sweet grape jelly creates an irresistible glaze that will have everyone asking for your recipe!