Holiday Apple Cider Glazed Sausage Rounds are a festive appetizer that brings together the comforting sweetness of spiced cider with the savory richness of smoked sausage. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of caramelized edges, warm holiday spices, and a glossy glaze that tastes like a celebration. These little rounds cook quickly, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, and holiday gatherings where effortless crowd-pleasers are a must.
The apple cider glaze is the heart of this dish. As it simmers, the cider reduces with brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and seasonal spices to create a fragrant, sticky coating that clings beautifully to the seared sausage. The flavors deepen as the mixture thickens, resulting in an irresistible blend of sweetness, tang, and warmth.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is its simplicity. With minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, you can serve an appetizer that feels both polished and comforting. The sausage browns in minutes, the glaze reduces quickly, and the entire dish transitions easily from skillet to serving platter.
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These rounds pair well with toothpicks on an appetizer board or served over mashed potatoes or rice for a cozy mini meal. However you present them, the glossy finish and holiday aroma make them unforgettable and highly requested year after year.
Servings and Timing
Yield: 25–30 rounds
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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