Sausage Rolls with Hot Honey and Thyme

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Introduction

Sausage Rolls with Hot Honey and Thyme take a beloved classic to the next level with a gourmet twist. Picture flaky, golden pastry enveloping a juicy, well-seasoned sausage filling, all finished with a glossy drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey and a touch of fragrant thyme. The result? A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that make these irresistible bites a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers, party snacks, or a cozy treat, they’ll disappear in no time.

The first time I made these, I knew they were something special. The rich aroma of buttery pastry and sizzling sausage filled the kitchen, and the final touch of hot honey added just the right amount of heat and sweetness. With each bite, the crisp pastry, juicy filling, and bold flavors came together in the most satisfying way.

What I love most about these Sausage Rolls with Hot Honey and Thyme is their versatility. You can experiment with different types of sausage—pork, chicken, or even a plant-based option—and adjust the spice level to your liking. Serve them warm with mustard, aioli, or a creamy dipping sauce for an extra layer of indulgence. Whether for a holiday spread, game day, or a weekend treat, these sausage rolls are sure to impress!

Perfect for:

  • Party appetizers
  • Brunch spreads
  • Holiday gatherings
  • Picnics and potlucks
  • Quick snacks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Sausage Rolls with Hot Honey and Thyme will become your new favorite:

  • Flaky and Buttery: The puff pastry bakes up perfectly crisp and golden.
  • Savory and Sweet Balance: The rich sausage pairs beautifully with the sweetness of hot honey.
  • Herby and Aromatic: Fresh thyme adds a fragrant, earthy note.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, quick prep, and a stunning result.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, brunches, or as a satisfying snack.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 12 sausage rolls
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Sausage Rolls with Hot Honey and Thyme:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • ½ lb (225g) high-quality sausage meat (pork, chicken, or turkey)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Puff Pastry: Provides a light, flaky, buttery crust.
  • Sausage Meat: Use high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds depth and a mild tang.
  • Thyme: Enhances the savory flavor with a fresh, herbal touch.
  • Hot Honey: A blend of honey and chili for a sweet-heat finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine sausage meat, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Sausage Rolls:

  1. Roll Out Puff Pastry: Lightly flour a surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Cut it into two equal rectangles.
  2. Shape the Filling: Divide the sausage mixture in half and form two long logs, placing one in the center of each pastry strip.
  3. Fold and Seal: Brush one edge of each pastry strip with beaten egg, fold over the sausage, and press the edges together to seal.
  4. Cut Into Pieces: Slice each roll into 6 equal pieces, creating 12 sausage rolls in total.

Bake the Sausage Rolls:

  1. Brush with Egg Wash: Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down, and brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg.
  2. Optional Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds for added crunch and visual appeal.
  3. Bake Until Golden: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Finish with Hot Honey and Thyme:

  1. Drizzle with Hot Honey: Once out of the oven, immediately drizzle with warm hot honey.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Thyme: Sprinkle extra fresh thyme over the top for added flavor and presentation.

How to Serve

  • Classic Platter Style – Arrange the sausage rolls on a serving board, drizzle extra hot honey over the top, and sprinkle with fresh thyme for a beautiful presentation.
  • With a Dipping Trio – Serve with small bowls of whole grain mustard, garlic aioli, and extra hot honey for guests to dip.
  • Mini Party Bites – Cut sausage rolls into bite-sized pieces and insert toothpicks for easy, mess-free snacking at gatherings.
  • Brunch Side – Pair with soft scrambled eggs, roasted cherry tomatoes, and a light green salad for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
  • Gourmet Sandwich – Slice a sausage roll in half and serve inside a brioche bun with arugula and caramelized onions for a unique handheld treat.
  • Charcuterie Board Addition – Add sliced sausage rolls to a cheese and meat board, complementing them with sharp cheddar, brie, and spicy pickles.
  • Picnic-Ready – Pack sausage rolls in parchment paper with a side of spicy honey mustard for a perfect picnic snack.
  • Soup Pairing – Serve alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a roasted butternut squash soup for a cozy meal.
  • Breakfast Upgrade – Chop and mix into scrambled eggs, or crumble over avocado toast for a flavorful twist.
  • Elegant Dinner Appetizer – Place sausage rolls on individual appetizer plates with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and microgreens for an upscale presentation.

Additional Tips

  • Use Cold Puff Pastry: Keep the pastry cold until ready to use for the flakiest results.
  • Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing with sausage to prevent bursting while baking.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble and freeze before baking for a quick, ready-to-bake snack.
  • Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot honey to your taste preference.
  • Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes for a crispier finish.

Recipe Variations

  1. Cheese-Stuffed Sausage Rolls: Add a layer of shredded cheddar or crumbled feta inside.
  2. Maple Bacon Sausage Rolls: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon and drizzle with maple syrup.
  3. Spicy Chorizo Rolls: Use chorizo sausage for a smoky, spicy kick.
  4. Apple & Sage Sausage Rolls: Mix in finely diced apple and fresh sage for a fall-inspired version.
  5. Pesto Sausage Rolls: Spread a thin layer of pesto inside before adding sausage.
  6. Greek-Style Rolls: Use lamb sausage with feta and oregano.
  7. Sweet and Savory Rolls: Add a touch of cinnamon and brown sugar to the sausage mixture.
  8. Mushroom & Thyme Rolls: Blend in finely chopped mushrooms for an umami boost.
  9. Everything Bagel Rolls: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning instead of sesame seeds.
  10. Gluten-Free Rolls: Use a gluten-free puff pastry alternative.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing (Unbaked): Assemble the rolls and freeze on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer bag and bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the bake time.
  • Freezing (Baked): Let the baked rolls cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Special Equipment

  • Rolling Pin – Helps roll out puff pastry evenly for the perfect texture.
  • Pastry Brush – Ideal for applying egg wash to give the rolls a golden, glossy finish.
  • Sharp Knife or Pastry Cutter – Ensures clean cuts when portioning the sausage rolls.
  • Baking Sheet – A sturdy sheet pan for even baking and crisping.
  • Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  • Meat Thermometer – Ensures the sausage filling is cooked to a safe internal temperature (165°F or 75°C).
  • Small Saucepan – For warming and infusing the hot honey with thyme before drizzling.
  • Fine Mesh Sieve – If straining the hot honey for a smoother consistency.
  • Cooling Rack – Allows air circulation to keep the rolls crispy after baking.
  • Pastry Crimper or Fork – Seals the edges of the pastry for a decorative and secure finish.

FAQ

  1. Can I use pre-made sausage links? Yes, just remove the casings and use the sausage meat inside.
  2. What is hot honey? It’s a blend of honey and chili flakes, adding a sweet and spicy kick.
  3. Can I make these vegetarian? Yes! Use plant-based sausage or a mixture of mushrooms and cheese.
  4. How do I make my own hot honey? Heat honey with a pinch of chili flakes and let it infuse for 5-10 minutes.
  5. What other herbs work well? Rosemary, sage, or oregano can be great substitutes for thyme.

Conclusion

Sausage Rolls with Hot Honey and Thyme take the classic favorite to new heights with a perfect balance of flaky pastry, savory sausage, sweet heat, and fragrant herbs. These golden, buttery rolls are packed with flavor and easy to make, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.

Whether served as an appetizer, a satisfying snack, or a standout addition to a brunch spread, these sausage rolls are sure to impress. The drizzle of golden hot honey adds just the right touch of sweetness and spice, while fresh thyme enhances the rich, savory filling. Enjoy them fresh from the oven for the ultimate crisp and flavor-packed bite.

I can’t wait to see your take on these Sausage Rolls with Hot Honey and Thyme! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make them your own. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments. Happy baking!

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