Holiday gatherings call for fun, festive finger foods that are as delicious as they are easy to prepare. One of my go-to favorites for any celebration is Holiday Pigs in a Blanket. These little bites combine savory cocktail sausages with flaky puff pastry or crescent dough, making them a true crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a cozy family get-together or a lively New Year’s Eve party, these delightful treats never fail to impress.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Holiday Pigs in a Blanket. For starters, they are incredibly simple to make, which saves you time and stress during the busy holiday season. With just a few ingredients, they are also budget-friendly, allowing you to provide a delicious appetizer without breaking the bank. What’s more, kids adore them, making them perfect for family-friendly gatherings.
“These Holiday Pigs in a Blanket were the hit of our New Year’s Eve party! They disappeared in no time!”
These tasty morsels are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to be served as appetizers at brunch, snacks during movie night, or even as part of a larger buffet.
The cooking process explained
Preparing Holiday Pigs in a Blanket is both fun and straightforward. You’ll start by working with your dough, whether you choose classic puff pastry or convenient crescent roll dough. After wrapping each cocktail sausage, a quick brush with egg wash provides that golden, flaky finish we all love. Bake them to perfection, and you’ll have a warm, inviting dish ready to serve in no time.
What you’ll need
To create these delightful bites, gather the following ingredients:
- Cocktail sausages
- Puff pastry or crescent roll dough
- Egg (for egg wash)
- Decorative garnishes (optional, for a festive touch)
Feel free to experiment with different types of sausages or even vegetarian alternatives to cater to dietary preferences!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven as directed on the dough package.
- Roll out the puff pastry or crescent roll dough and slice it into strips.
- Wrap each cocktail sausage snugly in a strip of dough.
- Arrange the wrapped sausages on a baking sheet for easy baking.
- Brush the tops with a beaten egg to achieve that lovely golden finish.
- Bake according to the package instructions or until they are golden brown and puffed.
- Serve them warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces, and don’t forget those decorative garnishes if you’re in the mood!
Best ways to enjoy it
These Holiday Pigs in a Blanket can be served with a variety of dipping sauces such as spicy mustard, tangy ketchup, or even a creamy ranch dip. To make your platter even more inviting, consider adding some vibrant sides like fresh vegetable sticks, olives, or a festive cheese dip.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, store uneaten Holiday Pigs in a Blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy. If you want to freeze them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-friendly bag for up to three months.
Helpful cooking tips
- For the best texture, ensure your dough is cold before wrapping the sausages—this helps the pastry puff up nicely in the oven.
- Experiment with spices! A pinch of garlic powder or paprika in the egg wash can elevate the flavor.
- If you want to make this ahead of time, prepare the sausages and dough, then freeze before baking. Bake straight from the freezer for a delightful treat at a moment’s notice.
Creative twists
Put your unique spin on this recipe by trying different flavors! Swap out the cocktail sausages for spicy Italian sausages, or use cheese-stuffed sausages for an extra cheesy bite. You could even brush the dough with garlic butter or sprinkle herbs like rosemary and thyme before baking for an aromatic twist.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick option for last-minute gatherings.
Can I make these Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Many brands offer vegetarian cocktail sausage alternatives that work perfectly in this recipe.
How do I keep them crispy when reheating?
To maintain that crispy texture, reheat these in the oven instead of the microwave, which tends to make them soggy.
By adding Holiday Pigs in a Blanket to your festive menu, you’ll be providing a dish that not only looks fantastic but is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Happy cooking!
Holiday Pigs in a Blanket
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 pieces Cocktail sausages You can experiment with different types or vegetarian alternatives.
- 1 package Puff pastry or crescent roll dough Use the type specified on the package.
- 1 large Egg Used for egg wash to achieve a golden finish.
- Decorative garnishes Optional for a festive touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven as directed on the dough package.
- Roll out the puff pastry or crescent roll dough and slice it into strips.
- Wrap each cocktail sausage snugly in a strip of dough.
- Arrange the wrapped sausages on a baking sheet for easy baking.
- Brush the tops with a beaten egg to achieve that lovely golden finish.
- Bake according to the package instructions or until they are golden brown and puffed.
- Serve them warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces and decorative garnishes if desired.
