Looking for a simple yet crowd-pleasing appetizer? Pig in a blanket is a timeless classic that’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even as a quick snack. Whether you’re hosting a game day feast or need an easy holiday treat, this recipe will have everyone coming back for more.
In this post, we’ll walk you through a foolproof pig in blanket recipe, along with variations, tips, and answers to frequently asked questions. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a basic pig in a blanket recipe, you’ll need:
- Cocktail sausages – 24 pieces (or your choice of mini hot dogs)
- Puff pastry or crescent roll dough – 1 sheet or 1 can (store-bought or homemade)
- Egg wash – 1 egg, beaten (for a golden crust)
- Optional seasonings – Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning
- Optional dips – Mustard, ketchup, or cheese sauce for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the dough
- Roll out the puff pastry or crescent dough and cut it into small strips, roughly 1.5 inches wide.
3. Wrap the sausages
- Take each cocktail sausage and wrap it snugly with a strip of dough, ensuring the seam side is down on the baking sheet.
4. Brush with egg wash
- Lightly brush each wrapped sausage with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, crispy finish.
5. Add toppings (optional)
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds or other desired toppings for extra flavor.
6. Bake to perfection
- Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
7. Serve and enjoy
- Let them cool for a few minutes and serve warm with your favorite dips.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Here are some tasty variations to customize your pigs in blankets:
- Cheesy Delight – Add a small slice of cheese inside the dough for a gooey center.
- Spicy Twist – Use spicy sausages or add a dash of hot sauce before wrapping.
- Bacon-Wrapped Pigs – Wrap the sausages in bacon before adding the dough for an extra indulgent treat.
- Vegetarian Option – Swap out sausages for plant-based alternatives.
Tips for Perfect Pigs in Blankets
- Don’t overwrap: Ensure the dough isn’t too thick to allow even baking.
- Chill the dough: Keeping the dough cold before baking helps it puff up nicely.
- Use quality sausages: The better the sausage, the better the flavor.
- Make ahead: Prep and freeze them before baking for an easy make-ahead appetizer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make pigs in blankets ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze them unbaked for up to a month.
Q2: What’s the best dipping sauce for pigs in blankets?
Classic options include mustard, ketchup, honey mustard, and barbecue sauce. Cheese dip also pairs perfectly.
Q3: Can I use different types of dough?
Absolutely! Puff pastry, crescent roll dough, and biscuit dough all work well, each offering a unique texture.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.
Q5: Are pigs in blankets suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, simply use plant-based sausages and check that your dough is free from animal products.
Conclusion
Pigs in a blanket are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion. They’re easy to make, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or trying new variations, these delicious treats are sure to be a hit.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Enjoy your homemade pigs in blankets!