5-Ingredient Crock Pot Cocktail Weiners with Grape Jelly
Cocktail weiners with grape jelly cooked in a Crock Pot, also known as little smokies, are a staple at parties, potlucks, and game day get-togethers. This classic dish is not only incredibly easy to make but also strikes a unique balance between sweet and savory, making it a favorite among all ages. If you're looking for a simple recipe that doesn't compromise on taste, then this five-ingredient Crock Pot cocktail weiners with grape jelly will surely win over your guests.
Why Choose This Recipe?
- Simplicity: With only five ingredients, this recipe cuts down on preparation time and complexity.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It's universally loved for its sweet and savory flavors, appealing to a broad audience.
- Crock Pot Magic: The slow cooker does all the work, keeping your weiners warm and delicious for hours.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of cocktail weiners
- 12 oz grape jelly (preferably a high-quality one)
- 12 oz chili sauce (for the savory balance)
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
- 2 tbsp of apple cider vinegar (optional for depth of flavor)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Preparation:
- Start by making sure your Crock Pot is clean and ready to use.
- Pour the grape jelly into the slow cooker. If you’re using the optional ingredients, add them as well.
- Add the chili sauce to the mixture, stirring to combine.
- Open your cocktail weiners and give them a gentle rinse if they have any excess liquid or flavorings. Pat them dry slightly with a paper towel.
Cooking Process:
- Add the cocktail weiners to the Crock Pot, mixing them well to ensure they’re coated in the sauce.
- Set your Crock Pot to low heat and cook for 2-3 hours, or on high for about 1.5 hours. The exact time can vary based on your Crock Pot’s performance.
📝 Note: Check on the weiners occasionally; if they seem to be drying out, you can add a small splash of water or extra chili sauce.
Tips for Perfection:
- Quality Ingredients: Opt for a good brand of grape jelly and chili sauce to elevate the flavor profile.
- Stir Occasionally: To prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom, give the weiners a stir every now and then.
- Customize Your Sauce: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by playing around with the ratio of jelly, chili sauce, and optional ingredients.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cocktail weiners warm in the Crock Pot set to ‘warm’ so guests can enjoy them throughout the event.
- Accompany with toothpicks for easy serving.
- Consider offering garnishes like finely chopped chives or sesame seeds for an aesthetic touch.
📝 Note: If your Crock Pot doesn't have a 'warm' setting, you can switch it between low and off to maintain warmth without overcooking the weiners.
In summary, the Crock Pot cocktail weiners with grape jelly recipe stands out for its simplicity, flavor, and the ease with which it can feed a crowd. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or a more formal event, this dish is sure to be a hit. Its sweet and savory appeal, coupled with the convenience of slow cooker preparation, makes it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Remember, the key to this dish's success lies in the quality of your ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together over time in the slow cooker.
Can I use a different jelly?
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While grape jelly is traditional, you can experiment with other jellies like apricot, raspberry, or even hot pepper jelly for a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with these weiners?
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These cocktail weiners go well with potato salad, macaroni salad, or coleslaw. For a lighter option, consider serving with crudités or cheese and crackers.
How do I keep the weiners from splitting?
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Cooking on a lower temperature setting helps prevent the weiners from splitting. Stirring occasionally also prevents them from sticking and splitting.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Mix the ingredients, refrigerate, and then cook in the Crock Pot when ready to serve. The weiners can even benefit from a long marinating time.
How long will these keep?
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When stored in the refrigerator, leftovers can last for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them gently in a microwave or on the stove.