Best-Ever Pigs in a Blanket

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Best-Ever Pigs in a Blanket are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that never goes out of style. These bite-sized delights feature juicy cocktail sausages wrapped in buttery, golden-brown crescent dough, creating a flaky, savory treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Perfect for parties, game-day spreads, or even a casual snack, these classic bites are quick to prepare, universally loved, and always a hit.

The first time I made these, I was amazed by how simple yet satisfying they were. Rolling up each sausage in the dough was quick and fun, and the smell of buttery pastry baking in the oven was absolutely irresistible. By the time they came out, golden and perfectly crisp, they were gone within minutes—a sure sign of a winning recipe.

What makes the Best-Ever Pigs in a Blanket truly shine is their versatility. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or spicy ketchup for extra flavor. You can even get creative by adding shredded cheese, a sprinkle of garlic powder, or everything bagel seasoning before baking. No matter how you customize them, these flaky, savory bites are guaranteed to be the first thing to disappear at any gathering!

Perfect for:

  • Game-day snacks
  • Holiday appetizers
  • Potluck parties
  • Kid-friendly meals
  • Quick and easy snacks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Best-Ever Pigs in a Blanket will become your go-to appetizer:

  • Golden and Flaky: The buttery crescent dough bakes up golden and flaky, complementing the juicy sausages perfectly.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults, these are always the first to disappear at any gathering.
  • Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and prep, they’re ready to bake in no time.
  • Customizable: Add cheese, seasonings, or toppings to suit your taste.
  • Portable and Fun to Eat: The small, handheld size makes them perfect for serving at parties or on the go.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 8 servings (approximately 24 pieces)
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Best-Ever Pigs in a Blanket:

  • 1 (8 oz) can crescent roll dough
  • 24 cocktail sausages (such as Lit’l Smokies)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Dipping sauces: ketchup, mustard, or honey mustard

Ingredient Highlights

  • Crescent Roll Dough: Buttery and flaky, crescent dough is the perfect wrap for these mini sausages.
  • Cocktail Sausages: Pre-cooked and bite-sized, these are convenient and flavorful.
  • Egg Wash: Helps the dough achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish.
  • Optional Additions: Sesame seeds, garlic powder, or cheese can add extra flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Cut the Dough: Roll out the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. Cut each triangle into three smaller strips.

Assemble the Pigs in a Blanket:

  1. Wrap the Sausages: Place a cocktail sausage at the wider end of each strip of dough. Roll the dough around the sausage until it’s fully wrapped.
  2. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the wrapped sausages seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Add Finishing Touches:

  1. Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the dough.
  2. Sprinkle Toppings (Optional): Add sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or garlic powder for extra flavor.

Bake:

  1. Bake Until Golden: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and puffed.

Serve:

  1. Cool and Serve: Let the pigs in a blanket cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces for the ultimate snack.

How to Serve

  • Classic Platter: Arrange the pigs in a blanket on a large platter with a variety of dipping sauces like mustard, ketchup, and ranch for a classic presentation.
  • Mini Slider Buns: Serve pigs in a blanket in mini slider buns for a fun twist, turning them into bite-sized sandwiches.
  • With a Side of Cheese: Pair with a small cheese board, offering cubes of cheddar, gouda, or brie to complement the savory flavor of the pigs in a blanket.
  • BBQ Style: Serve with a side of smoky barbecue sauce for dipping, and perhaps a few pickle spears for an added crunch.
  • Game Day Platter: Create a themed snack platter with pigs in a blanket, chips, and other finger foods for game day parties.
  • On a Salad: Serve a few pigs in a blanket on top of a fresh green salad with a tangy dressing, adding a unique twist.
  • Wrapped in Bacon: For extra indulgence, serve the pigs in a blanket wrapped in crispy bacon slices for a smoky, crispy finish.
  • With Sweet Dips: Pair with a sweet dipping sauce, like honey mustard or maple syrup, for a sweet-and-savory contrast.
  • Spicy Kick: Serve with spicy jalapeño slices or a spicy dipping sauce, such as sriracha mayo, to add some heat.
  • Serve with Veggies: Add fresh veggies like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or celery to balance the richness of the pigs in a blanket.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overwrap: Avoid overlapping the dough too much to ensure even baking.
  • Chill the Dough: If the dough gets too soft while assembling, chill it for a few minutes before continuing.
  • Add Cheese: Place a small piece of cheese on the dough before wrapping for an extra cheesy version.
  • Reheat for Freshness: Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer for a crispy texture.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the pigs in a blanket ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

Recipe Variations

  1. Cheesy Pigs in a Blanket: Add shredded cheddar or a slice of cheese to the dough before wrapping.
  2. Everything Seasoning: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top of the egg wash.
  3. Spicy Pigs in a Blanket: Use spicy sausages or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the dough.
  4. Bacon-Wrapped Pigs: Wrap each sausage in a thin slice of bacon before adding the dough.
  5. Garlic Butter Pigs: Brush the baked pigs with melted garlic butter before serving.
  6. Jalapeño Cheddar: Add a slice of pickled jalapeño and cheddar cheese to the dough before wrapping.
  7. Herb-Crusted Pigs: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme over the egg wash.
  8. Sweet and Savory: Drizzle honey over the baked pigs for a touch of sweetness.
  9. Mini Pretzel Pigs: Use pretzel dough instead of crescent dough for a chewy, salty twist.
  10. Pizza Pigs: Spread marinara sauce and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on the dough before wrapping.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Assemble the pigs in a blanket but do not bake. Freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Special Equipment

  • Baking Sheet: A sturdy, non-stick baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
  • Pastry Brush: Perfect for brushing egg wash or butter on the dough for a golden, shiny finish.
  • Pizza Cutter: Makes cutting the dough into even strips quick and easy.
  • Rolling Pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly if you’re using homemade or pre-rolled dough.
  • Small Tongs: Useful for handling mini sausages or hot dogs without burning your fingers.
  • Silicone Baking Mat: Provides a non-stick surface and makes cleanup a breeze.
  • Cooling Rack: Allows the baked pigs in a blanket to cool evenly and prevents soggy bottoms.
  • Dough Cutter or Bench Scraper: Great for dividing and shaping dough cleanly.
  • Mini Muffin Tin: Ideal for creating bite-sized, stuffed versions of pigs in a blanket with cheese or other fillings.
  • Pastry Wheel (Fluted Cutter): Adds a decorative edge to the dough for a more elegant presentation.

FAQ

  1. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?
    Yes, puff pastry works well and gives a flaky, buttery result.
  2. Can I use regular hot dogs?
    Absolutely! Cut regular hot dogs into smaller pieces for this recipe.
  3. Can I make these in an air fryer?
    Yes, cook them at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
  4. Can I make them ahead of time?
    Yes, assemble and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours before baking.
  5. What dipping sauces go best?
    Ketchup, mustard, honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce are all great options.

Conclusion

Best-Ever Pigs in a Blanket are the ultimate finger food—quick, easy, and universally adored. These golden, flaky treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering, party, or festive meal. With endless customization options and minimal effort, this recipe is a must-have in your appetizer arsenal.

Simply wrap mini sausages or hot dogs in buttery, crescent roll dough, bake until golden, and serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces like mustard, ketchup, or cheese. These little bites are guaranteed to disappear in minutes, making them an instant hit wherever they’re served.

I can’t wait to see your Best-Ever Pigs in a Blanket creations! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you put your twist on them. Don’t forget to share your favorite dipping sauces or variations in the comments. Happy cooking!

Leave a Comment