Pigs in a blanket, the beloved snack of savory sausage wrapped in a warm, buttery blanket of pastry, is a classic that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many. Whether you’re prepping for a party, looking for a quick weeknight snack, or something fun for the kids, this delightful dish checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a breeze to make! In this recipe, we’ll explore how to craft these delicious little treats using crescent roll dough and cocktail sausages, with tips for making them extra special.
What Are Pigs in a Blanket?
Pigs in a blanket are mini sausages or hot dogs wrapped in a doughy “blanket” and baked until golden and crispy. The result is a mouthwatering mix of soft, fluffy pastry and juicy, flavorful sausage. While crescent roll dough is the go-to pastry in this recipe, variations exist worldwide. In the UK, for instance, pigs in a blanket are wrapped in bacon. But for today, we’ll stick with the American-style, using crescent roll dough for that perfect flaky texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Pigs in a Blanket
The beauty of pigs in a blanket lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients to make these bite-sized goodies, and chances are, you already have most of them in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can of refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 package of mini cocktail sausages (about 24 sausages)
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Dipping sauces: Mustard, ketchup, cheese sauce, or honey mustard
This basic recipe is open to all sorts of modifications—add cheese, spices, or even a touch of chili powder to personalize your pigs in a blanket.
How to Make Pigs in a Blanket
Here’s the step-by-step guide to creating the ultimate pigs in a blanket. This recipe should take about 20 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to bake.
1. Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure your baking sheet is ready by either greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
2. Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough from the can and separate it along the perforated edges into triangles. Depending on the size of your dough triangles, you may need to cut them into smaller pieces to fit your mini sausages. Aim for triangle pieces that are about twice the length of your sausages.
3. Wrap the Sausages
Take a cocktail sausage and place it at the wider end of the triangle. Gently roll the sausage toward the pointed end of the dough, ensuring that the sausage is wrapped snugly but not too tight. You want the dough to have a bit of room to puff up as it bakes.
4. Arrange and Add Egg Wash (Optional)
Once wrapped, place each pig in a blanket seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. For a golden, glossy finish, you can brush each one with a light coat of egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water). If you like, sprinkle some sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
5. Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked. Keep an eye on them—no one wants a burnt pig in a blanket!
6. Serve with Dipping Sauces
Remove your pigs in a blanket from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces, such as mustard, ketchup, or cheese sauce. These little guys are perfect for sharing, so pile them high on a serving platter and watch them disappear.
Tips and Variations for Pigs in a Blanket
Pigs in a blanket are a versatile dish that can be adapted in many ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your pigs in a blanket:
- Cheesy Pigs in a Blanket: Before wrapping the sausage, add a small slice of cheddar or American cheese inside the crescent dough for an extra gooey treat.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle chili flakes or a small amount of jalapeño inside the dough before rolling up the sausages.
- Gourmet Touch: Want to impress your guests? Use gourmet mini sausages such as chorizo, andouille, or apple-flavored sausages for a more sophisticated flavor profile.
- Bacon-Wrapped Pigs in a Blanket: For a richer, smokier taste, wrap each sausage in a half slice of bacon before wrapping it in the dough.
- Gluten-Free Option: For those with dietary restrictions, swap out the crescent roll dough for gluten-free dough to accommodate your guests.
Why Pigs in a Blanket Are the Perfect Snack
Pigs in a blanket have been a staple at parties, family gatherings, and game days for decades—and for good reason! Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to eat, and they’re the perfect balance of salty, savory, and satisfying. Here are a few reasons why pigs in a blanket stand out as the perfect snack:
- Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a good pig in a blanket, from picky eaters to foodies. These snacks are easy to grab and munch on without the need for utensils or plates.
- Versatile: As shown in the variations above, pigs in a blanket can be customized in countless ways to suit different preferences. You can make them spicy, cheesy, or even sweet and savory with the right additions.
- Easy and Quick to Make: With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, pigs in a blanket are a stress-free addition to any meal. They’re great when you’re short on time but still want to impress.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a game day snack, a kid’s birthday party, or a simple family dinner, pigs in a blanket fit right in. Plus, they travel well if you’re bringing them to a potluck or picnic.
FAQs
How do I prevent the dough from becoming soggy?
To avoid soggy dough, make sure your sausages are dry before wrapping them in the crescent roll dough. Pat them with a paper towel if necessary.
Can I make pigs in a blanket ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving to ensure they’re warm and crispy.
Can I freeze pigs in a blanket?
Absolutely. Once they are assembled, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just bake a few extra minutes until golden.
What’s the best way to reheat pigs in a blanket?
Reheat pigs in a blanket in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy, unlike microwaving which can make them soggy.
Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?
Yes, puff pastry will give your pigs in a blanket a flakier texture. Just keep an eye on the baking time as it may differ slightly.
What can I serve with pigs in a blanket?
They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces, but you can also serve them with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or a fresh salad for a fuller meal.
Conclusion
Pigs in a blanket are a timeless, tasty snack that never disappoints. With minimal ingredients and an endless array of customization options, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, family gathering, or simply as a snack for yourself, they’re sure to be a hit! So roll up those sausages and get ready to enjoy this classic dish, hot from the oven.
Tags: Pigs in a Blanket, Crescent Roll Pigs in a Blanket, Easy Party Snacks, Cocktail Sausages, Game Day Recipes