Pigs in a Blanket: From Classic to Creative – Recipes and Baking Secrets

Pigs in a blanket, a beloved snack and appetizer, hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs!) of people of all ages. These miniature sausages snugly wrapped in flaky dough are comfort food at its finest. While the classic version is undeniably delicious, the world of pigs in a blanket extends far beyond a simple recipe. This post will guide you through crafting the perfect classic pigs in a blanket, then delve into creative variations, baking tips, and serving suggestions to elevate this humble treat to a culinary delight.

The Classic: Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

Let’s start with the foundation – the quintessential pigs in a blanket. This recipe is simple, straightforward, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough (such as Pillsbury)
• 1 package (14 ounces) little smokies sausages or cocktail wieners
• Optional: Dijon mustard, ketchup, or other dipping sauces

Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat (optional, for easier cleanup)
• Knife or pizza cutter
• Small bowl (for dipping sauces, if using)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. This step is optional but highly recommended as it prevents the pigs in a blanket from sticking to the baking sheet.
3. Unroll the crescent roll dough: Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean, flat surface. If the dough is too sticky, lightly dust the surface with flour.
4. Separate the triangles: Separate the dough into individual triangles along the perforated lines.
5. Cut the triangles (optional): For smaller pigs in a blanket, you can cut each triangle lengthwise into two smaller triangles. This is a great option if you are using smaller cocktail wieners or want to create more bite-sized appetizers.
6. Wrap the sausages: Place a little smokie or cocktail wiener at the wide end of each triangle. Roll the dough around the sausage, starting from the wide end and rolling towards the point. Gently pinch the dough to seal the seam.
7. Arrange on baking sheet: Place the wrapped sausages, seam-side down, on the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each pig in a blanket to allow for even baking.
8. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the sausages are heated through. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them.
9. Cool slightly and serve: Let the pigs in a blanket cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as Dijon mustard, ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.

Tips for Perfect Classic Pigs in a Blanket:

• Don’t overbake: Overbaking can result in dry sausages and overly browned dough. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the oven when the dough is golden brown.
• Seal the seams: Make sure to pinch the dough tightly around the sausages to prevent them from unwrapping during baking.
• Use quality ingredients: Using high-quality sausages and crescent roll dough will result in a better-tasting final product.
• Experiment with dipping sauces: The right dipping sauce can elevate your pigs in a blanket to the next level. Try offering a variety of sauces to cater to different tastes.
• Make them ahead: You can assemble the pigs in a blanket ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.

Creative Pigs in a Blanket Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the classic, let’s explore some exciting variations that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. These recipes build upon the foundation of the classic, adding unique flavors and textures to create unforgettable pigs in a blanket.

1. Cheese-Filled Pigs in a Blanket

Add a cheesy twist to the classic by incorporating cheese into the wrapping process. This variation is perfect for cheese lovers and adds a layer of richness to the snack.

Ingredients:

• All ingredients from the classic recipe
• 4 ounces cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or your favorite cheese, cut into small sticks or shredded

Instructions:

1. Follow steps 1-5 from the classic recipe.
2. Place a small stick of cheese or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on the wide end of each triangle, next to the sausage.
3. Roll the dough around the sausage and cheese, starting from the wide end and rolling towards the point. Gently pinch the dough to seal the seam.
4. Follow steps 7-9 from the classic recipe.

2. Everything Bagel Pigs in a Blanket

Bring the flavors of an everything bagel to your pigs in a blanket by adding everything bagel seasoning. This adds a savory and aromatic touch to the snack.

Ingredients:

• All ingredients from the classic recipe
• 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Follow steps 1-7 from the classic recipe.
2. Brush the tops of the wrapped sausages with the beaten egg.
3. Sprinkle generously with everything bagel seasoning.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the sausages are heated through.
5. Cool slightly and serve.

3. Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Pigs in a Blanket

Add a kick of heat to your pigs in a blanket with jalapeños and cheddar cheese. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a little spice.

Ingredients:

• All ingredients from the classic recipe
• 4 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1-2 jalapeños, finely diced (adjust to your spice preference)

Instructions:

1. Follow steps 1-5 from the classic recipe.
2. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños on the wide end of each triangle.
3. Roll the dough around the sausage, cheese, and jalapeños, starting from the wide end and rolling towards the point. Gently pinch the dough to seal the seam.
4. Follow steps 7-9 from the classic recipe.

4. Pretzel Pigs in a Blanket

Give your pigs in a blanket a salty and chewy twist by using pretzel dough instead of crescent roll dough. This variation offers a unique texture and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (14 ounces) pretzel dough (refrigerated or homemade)
• 1 package (14 ounces) little smokies sausages or cocktail wieners
• Coarse salt (for sprinkling)
• Optional: Dijon mustard, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the baking sheet as in the classic recipe.
3. Roll out the pretzel dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut the dough into strips that are wide enough to wrap around the sausages.
5. Wrap each sausage with a strip of pretzel dough.
6. Place the wrapped sausages, seam-side down, on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush the tops of the pretzel dough with a beaten egg or milk (optional, for a shiny finish).
8. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzel dough is golden brown and the sausages are heated through.
10. Cool slightly and serve with Dijon mustard.

5. Puff Pastry Pigs in a Blanket

For an extra flaky and buttery version, use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough. This creates a more decadent and sophisticated appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet (14 ounces) frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1 package (14 ounces) little smokies sausages or cocktail wieners
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the baking sheet as in the classic recipe.
3. Unfold the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
4. Cut the puff pastry into strips that are wide enough to wrap around the sausages.
5. Wrap each sausage with a strip of puff pastry.
6. Place the wrapped sausages, seam-side down, on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush the tops of the puff pastry with the beaten egg.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
9. Cool slightly and serve.

6. Pizza Pigs in a Blanket

Combine the flavors of pizza and pigs in a blanket for a fun and flavorful twist. This is a great option for pizza lovers.

Ingredients:

• All ingredients from the classic recipe
• 1/4 cup pizza sauce
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional: Pepperoni, finely chopped
• Optional: Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Follow steps 1-5 from the classic recipe.
2. Spread a small amount of pizza sauce on the wide end of each triangle.
3. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and optional pepperoni.
4. Roll the dough around the sausage, sauce, and cheese, starting from the wide end and rolling towards the point. Gently pinch the dough to seal the seam.
5. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning (optional).
6. Follow steps 7-9 from the classic recipe.

7. Vegan Pigs in a Blanket

Enjoy pigs in a blanket even if you’re following a vegan diet! This recipe uses plant-based sausages and crescent roll dough alternatives.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (8 ounces) vegan crescent roll dough
• 1 package (14 ounces) vegan little smokies sausages or cocktail wieners
• Optional: Vegan Dijon mustard, ketchup, or other dipping sauces
• Plant-based milk (for brushing, optional)

Instructions:

1. Follow steps 1-7 from the classic recipe, ensuring you are using vegan-friendly crescent roll dough.
2. Brush the tops of the wrapped sausages with plant-based milk (optional).
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the sausages are heated through.
4. Cool slightly and serve with your favorite vegan dipping sauces.

Baking Secrets for Pigs in a Blanket

Achieving perfectly baked pigs in a blanket involves more than just following the recipe. Here are some insider tips to ensure your pigs in a blanket are always a hit:

• Dough Temperature: Work with cold dough. Cold dough is easier to handle and prevents the sausages from becoming greasy. If your dough gets too warm, pop it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
• Even Baking: Ensure even baking by placing the baking sheet in the center rack of your oven. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time for even browning.
• Egg Wash (Optional): Brushing the dough with an egg wash before baking creates a glossy, golden-brown finish. Use a beaten egg mixed with a teaspoon of water or milk. For vegan options, use plant-based milk.
• Preventing Soggy Bottoms: If you’re concerned about soggy bottoms, preheat your baking sheet in the oven for a few minutes before placing the pigs in a blanket on it. This will help the dough cook more evenly.
• Baking Time Adjustments: Baking times can vary depending on your oven and the size of your pigs in a blanket. Keep a close eye on them and adjust the baking time as needed.

Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments

Pigs in a blanket are incredibly versatile and can be served in various settings, from casual gatherings to more formal parties. Here are some serving suggestions and complementary dishes to consider:

• Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces to cater to different tastes. Popular choices include Dijon mustard, honey mustard, ketchup, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and cheese sauce.
• Side Dishes: Pair pigs in a blanket with complementary side dishes such as coleslaw, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, or a simple green salad.
• Presentation: Arrange the pigs in a blanket on a platter or in a basket lined with parchment paper. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for visual appeal.
• Party Food: Pigs in a blanket are a perfect addition to any party spread. Serve them alongside other appetizers such as mini pizzas, chicken wings, and vegetable sticks with dip.
• Breakfast or Brunch: Surprise your family with pigs in a blanket for breakfast or brunch. Serve them with scrambled eggs, bacon, and fruit salad for a complete meal.
• Themed Parties: Tailor your pigs in a blanket to the theme of your party. For example, for a Mexican-themed party, try adding chorizo sausage and a sprinkle of chili powder.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Pigs in a blanket are a great make-ahead appetizer, making them perfect for busy schedules and party planning. Here are some tips for making them ahead of time and storing them properly:

• Make-Ahead Instructions: Assemble the pigs in a blanket as instructed in the recipe, but do not bake them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few minutes to the baking time when baking from chilled.
• Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked pigs in a blanket. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
• Storage of Leftovers: Store leftover baked pigs in a blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven, microwave, or air fryer until heated through.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with the best recipe, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Dough is too sticky: Dust your work surface lightly with flour to prevent the dough from sticking.
• Sausages are bursting out of the dough: Make sure you are wrapping the sausages tightly and pinching the seams closed securely.
• Pigs in a blanket are browning too quickly: Lower the oven temperature by 25 degrees and continue baking until the dough is cooked through.
• Pigs in a blanket are not browning: Increase the oven temperature slightly or brush the dough with an egg wash for a golden-brown finish.
• Pigs in a blanket are soggy: Make sure you are using a preheated baking sheet and not overcrowding the pan.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving – Classic Recipe)

Please note that the nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 150-200
• Fat: 10-15g
• Saturated Fat: 5-7g
• Cholesterol: 20-30mg
• Sodium: 300-400mg
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Protein: 5-7g

Conclusion

Pigs in a blanket are more than just a simple appetizer; they are a blank canvas for culinary creativity. From the classic recipe to the innovative variations explored in this post, there’s a pigs in a blanket recipe for everyone. With the tips and tricks shared, you’re well-equipped to create perfect pigs in a blanket every time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in this timeless treat!