Brown Sugar Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is the perfect sweet-and-savory appetizer for any festive occasion. Juicy shrimp are wrapped in smoky bacon, then glazed with a mix of brown sugar and spices, creating a caramelized coating that’s irresistible. Quick to prep and bake, these bite-sized treats are elegant enough for a holiday gathering yet simple enough for casual entertaining.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)

• 10 slices of bacon (cut in half to make 20 pieces)

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)

• Toothpicks (for securing bacon)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top if available.

2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.

3. Wrap each shrimp with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.

4. Roll each bacon-wrapped shrimp in the brown sugar mixture until evenly coated.

5. Place shrimp on the wire rack or directly on the baking sheet.

6. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.

7. Let cool slightly and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as-is.

Nutrients (Estimated per serving — approx. 4 shrimp per serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal

• Protein: 18g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fat: 18g

• Sugar: 8g

• Sodium: 620mg

• Fiber: 0g

The Perfect Marriage of Texture and Flavor

The success of this appetizer lies in its perfect combination of textures and flavors. Shrimp offer a tender, slightly firm bite, while bacon brings that signature smoky crispness. The glaze, made from brown sugar and spices, caramelizes during baking to form a sticky, slightly crunchy coating that enhances every mouthful. Each bite delivers complexity: salty bacon, succulent shrimp, and a glaze that’s rich, sweet, smoky, and gently spiced. It’s a flavor profile that keeps guests coming back for more, bite after bite.

Simple Ingredients, Gourmet Results

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is how it transforms basic pantry staples into something that feels gourmet. Bacon, shrimp, and brown sugar are easy to find, and the seasonings are likely already in your kitchen. But when combined, these everyday ingredients create something elegant enough for a dinner party appetizer or festive holiday platter. This is a prime example of how a few thoughtful touches—like the addition of smoked paprika or a touch of cayenne—can turn a simple idea into a standout dish.

Caramelized Glaze That’s Packed with Flavor

The brown sugar glaze is more than just a sweet topping—it’s the flavor foundation that makes this dish shine. As the shrimp bake, the sugar melts and clings to the bacon, forming a sticky coating that crisps up around the edges. Smoked paprika adds a rich depth and enhances the natural smokiness of the bacon, while garlic powder gives it a savory punch. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper brings a warming kick that balances the sweetness perfectly. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, glossy finish that’s visually appealing and delicious.

A Showstopper on Any Party Platter

Presentation matters when it comes to party food, and these bacon-wrapped shrimp look as good as they taste. Their golden, caramelized coating and perfectly curled shape make them a standout on any appetizer tray. The toothpick skewer adds a rustic, party-ready touch and makes them easy to pick up and eat without utensils. Serve them arranged in a circle on a platter with a dipping sauce in the middle, or pair them with fresh herbs or citrus slices for an extra visual pop. However you choose to serve them, they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly.

Quick and Easy Preparation for Busy Hosts

Despite their impressive flavor and appearance, Brown Sugar Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp are incredibly simple to prepare. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is a dream for hosts who want to wow guests without spending all day in the kitchen. You can even prep them in advance—wrapping the shrimp and coating them in the glaze—then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. The short cook time and high-impact flavor make them perfect for last-minute entertaining or when you need a low-effort, high-reward appetizer.

Ideal for Any Occasion

These shrimp are versatile enough to serve at both casual and upscale events. They’re the perfect finger food for Super Bowl parties, New Year’s Eve celebrations, summer BBQs, or holiday buffets. Because they’re so portable and individually portioned, they’re also great for cocktail parties or passed hors d’oeuvres at more formal gatherings. Pair them with a crisp white wine, a citrusy cocktail, or even a light beer for a well-rounded experience. No matter the occasion, their universal appeal makes them a guaranteed hit.

Make-Ahead Tips for Stress-Free Hosting

One of the great things about this recipe is that you can easily prepare it in advance. Wrap the shrimp with bacon, coat them in the glaze, and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours until you’re ready to bake. You can also partially cook the bacon beforehand to ensure crispiness, then wrap and finish baking closer to serving time. This make-ahead flexibility makes the recipe especially valuable for hosts who want to minimize last-minute prep and focus on enjoying the event.

Customizable for Every Palate

While the classic recipe is delicious as-is, it’s also highly customizable. You can experiment with different spices in the glaze to match your desired flavor profile—try adding a bit of maple syrup for a deeper sweetness or swapping the smoked paprika for chili powder for an extra kick. If you prefer less heat, simply omit the cayenne. You can even use turkey bacon or a leaner cut of meat if you’re aiming for a lighter version. The foundation of this recipe is strong enough to handle your creativity while still delivering excellent results.

Pairs Well with Dipping Sauces and Sides

While these bacon-wrapped shrimp are packed with flavor on their own, a dipping sauce can elevate them even further. Classic marinara or pizza sauce brings out the Italian-style spice, while a garlic aioli or honey mustard offers creamy contrast. For a bold twist, consider serving them with chipotle ranch or a spicy apricot glaze. If you want to serve them as part of a more substantial spread, pair them with roasted vegetables, seasoned rice, or even a crisp salad. They’re delicious as a standalone snack but versatile enough to play well with others.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is the perfect appetizer for anyone looking to impress without the stress. With a stunning caramelized glaze, juicy shrimp, and crispy, savory bacon, these bite-sized treats offer the perfect balance of sweet and salty, tender and crisp. Their simple preparation and elegant presentation make them ideal for a wide range of events—from holiday feasts to casual game nights. Easy to prep, endlessly customizable, and universally adored, this recipe is one you’ll find yourself turning to again and again. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just craving something special, these shrimp are guaranteed to satisfy.