Every party deserves a star appetizer, and Pigs in a Blanket is just that.
These irresistible bites wrap savory sausages in a blanket of golden, flaky pastry.
Their perfect balance of buttery pastry and juicy sausage makes them an instant crowd-pleaser.
I first encountered this delightful treat at a holiday gathering, where they were an absolute hit.
Today, I’m sharing a quick version that you can whip up in just 20 minutes.
Whether it’s a game day or a cozy night in, Pigs in a Blanket are sure to elevate any occasion.
The History and Cultural Significance
• Pigs in a Blanket trace their origins to 1950s America, where they were created as a convenient snack for family gatherings.
• The dish evolved over decades as convenience foods became popular, eventually becoming the beloved version we know today.
• In American culture, this dish traditionally appears at Super Bowl parties and holiday gatherings, symbolizing comfort and togetherness.
• While many variations exist across different regions, the authentic version maintains a simple combination of sausage and pastry that sets it apart from imitations.
Recipe Overview
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Essential Equipment Guide
Baking Sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, essential for getting that perfect golden-brown crust. Alternatives include silicone baking mats. Look for a heavy-duty sheet with a non-stick coating.
Pastry Brush: Ideal for applying egg wash evenly, ensuring a shiny, professional finish. Alternatives include using a small spoon, but a brush provides more control. Choose one with soft bristles that won’t shed.
Cooling Rack: Helps prevent soggy bottoms by allowing airflow around the pastry. Alternatives include a flat plate, but a rack is best for maintaining crispness. Look for a sturdy, stainless steel model.
Ingredients
For the Base
|
|
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 package | crescent roll dough | pre-made, for convenience |
| 8 small | cocktail sausages | fully cooked |
Seasonings
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon | sesame seeds | optional, for garnish |
| 1 teaspoon | coarse salt | for sprinkling |
Egg Wash
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 large | egg | beaten, for brushing |
Preparation Methods
Rolling Technique: Rolling the dough evenly around the sausages ensures even cooking and a consistent texture. Practice by rolling a few sausages to get a feel for the right tension and overlap.
Egg Wash Application: This technique involves brushing a lightly beaten egg over the pastry to achieve a glossy finish. Use gentle strokes to avoid tearing the dough, and ensure even coverage for uniform browning.
Seam Placement: Placing the seam side down on the baking sheet prevents the dough from unrolling during baking. Ensure the seam is sealed properly by pinching the dough edges together.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Ensure the oven rack is in the middle position.
This allows for even baking.
A preheated oven ensures the pastry puffs up nicely.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface.
Separate the dough into triangles along the perforations.
This step is crucial for even wrapping.
Avoid stretching the dough too thin as it can tear.
Step 3: Wrap the Sausages
Place a cocktail sausage on the wide end of a dough triangle.
Roll up the dough, tucking it snugly around the sausage.
Ensure the tip of the triangle sticks to the dough.
This prevents it from unrolling during baking.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Arrange the wrapped sausages seam side down.
Leave space between each for even heat distribution.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
Beat the egg in a small bowl.
Use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash evenly over each pastry.
This step creates a glossy finish.
Ensure all surfaces are covered to prevent uneven browning.
Step 6: Sprinkle Seasonings
Sprinkle sesame seeds and coarse salt over the top.
This adds flavor and visual appeal.
Be careful not to overdo the salt.
A light touch enhances without overpowering.
Step 7: Bake the Pigs in a Blanket
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Check halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Rotate the sheet if necessary.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack.
Allow them to cool for a few minutes.
This prevents burning your tongue on hot sausage juices.
Serve warm for the best taste.
Critical Timing and Temperature Guide
Preheating the Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes before baking. Ensure the oven is at the correct temperature to avoid soggy pastries.
Baking Time: Bake for 12-15 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust as an indicator of doneness. Avoid opening the oven door too frequently.
Cooling Time: Allow pastries to cool for 3-5 minutes post-baking to set the structure and enhance flavor. Avoid serving too hot to prevent injury.
Pro Tips for Pigs in a Blanket
• Ingredient Selection: Choose high-quality cocktail sausages for the best flavor. Look for those with natural casing for added snap.
• Preparation Secret: Briefly chilling the wrapped pastries before baking can prevent the dough from spreading too much.
• Temperature Management: Ensure the dough is cold before wrapping. Warm dough can become sticky and harder to handle.
• Texture Enhancement: Use a cooling rack post-baking to maintain a crisp bottom.
• Flavor Layering: Consider adding a thin layer of Dijon mustard inside the dough before wrapping for added depth of flavor.
• Make-Ahead Strategies: Assemble and freeze uncooked pastries. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Restaurant-Quality Finishing Touches: A sprinkle of herbs over the baked pastries can enhance visual appeal and flavor.
• Equipment Optimization: Use a high-quality pastry brush for even egg wash application, ensuring a professional look.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
• Pastry Not Browning: This issue can occur if the oven isn’t hot enough. Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before baking.
• Pastries Unrolling: Ensure the dough is sealed properly by pinching the edges and placing the seam side down on the baking sheet.
• Too Salty: Over-salting can happen if both the sausages and dough are heavily seasoned. Use low-salt sausages if needed.
• Dough Tearing: This can occur if the dough is rolled too thin. Handle the dough gently and avoid overstretching.
• Soggy Bottoms: This often results from insufficient baking. Ensure the baking sheet is preheated and use a cooling rack post-baking.
Variations and Regional Differences
• British Sausage Rolls: This version uses puff pastry and larger sausages, often seasoned with herbs and served as a classic British snack.
• German Würstchen im Schlafrock: A German adaptation using frankfurters wrapped in dough, sometimes with cheese added inside.
• Asian-Inspired Pigs in a Blanket: Includes ingredients like teriyaki sauce and sesame seeds, offering a sweet and savory twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute sausages with plant-based options, keeping the preparation method the same.
Food Science Behind the Recipe
• Maillard Reaction: The browning of the pastry is due to the Maillard reaction, which enhances flavor and color. Egg wash aids this process by providing proteins and sugars.
• Steam Leavening: As the dough heats, water turns to steam, creating layers in the pastry, resulting in a flaky texture.
• Protein Coagulation: The protein in the egg wash sets during baking, forming a shiny, firm coating on the pastry surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most common mistake people make when preparing Pigs in a Blanket? Overfilling the dough or not sealing it properly, leading to unrolling during baking.
Can I prepare Pigs in a Blanket ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble them and freeze before baking. Cook from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
What type of sausage is best for this recipe? Cocktail sausages or mini frankfurters work best for size and flavor.
How can I ensure the pastry stays flaky? Keep the dough cold and avoid overworking it to maintain flaky layers.
Is it possible to make a gluten-free version? Yes, use gluten-free pastry dough and ensure all other ingredients comply with gluten-free standards.
How do I prevent the bottom from becoming soggy? Use a preheated baking sheet and ensure proper spacing on the cooling rack.
Can I add cheese to this recipe? Yes, a small slice of cheese can be added before rolling for extra flavor.
Serving and Presentation Guide
• Traditional Presentation: Serve warm on a platter lined with a festive napkin, with mustard and ketchup on the side.
• Elegant Appetizer: Arrange vertically on skewers with cherry tomatoes and basil for a colorful, bite-sized treat.
• Casual Gathering: Pile high in a basket lined with parchment paper for easy serving and rustic charm.
• Themed Party: Serve in a mini picnic basket for a playful, themed presentation.
Conclusion
Pigs in a Blanket are a timeless appetizer that never fails to delight.
Their ease of preparation makes them a go-to choice for hosts looking to impress without stress.
Try this recipe at your next gathering and watch them disappear within minutes.
Enjoy the blend of flaky pastry and savory sausage in every bite.
