Pigs in a blanket is that tasty snack thats always poppin up at family parties or game nights. Its made by wrapping tiny sausages in dough and baking them till its golden and flaky. Some folks use puff pastry but most people like crescent rolls coz theyre buttery and easy to handle so your sauce dont get soggy and they come out perfect every time
What makes pigs in a blanket so popular is how easy they are to make and how everyone loves em from kids to grownups, seriously you can whip them up for a movie night or for the big game and theyre always gone in seconds. Even if your not the best cook you cant mess this up thats why theyre a go-to for newbies
In this post we gonna show you step by step how to make pigs in a blanket with crescent rolls and share some tips and FAQ so you dont get stuck, plus some ideas for twists if you want cheese or spice or even veggie versions youll find it all below
1. History of Pigs in a Blanket
The idea of wrapping meat in dough goes way back and you can find it in loads of cultures. In the US pigs in a blanket became super popular around the 1950s at backyard BBQs and potlucks. People liked it cause it was cheap and fed a lot.
In the UK tho, they call “pigs in blankets” little sausages wrapped in bacon, mostly at Christmas dinner. Here in America we use tiny hot dogs or cocktail sausages wrapped in pastry. As it spread around the world cooks added thier own spin with local spices and ingredients.
These days chefs and home cooks experiment by stuffing them with cheese, using different doughs or adding herbs. Its proof that this simple snack keeps changing but never goes out of style.
2. Ingredients for Pigs in a Blanket with Crescent Rolls
2.1. Basic Ingredients
- Pre-packaged crescent rolls: This flaky dough is the main thing you need.
- Mini hot dogs or cocktail sausages: Bite-sized sausages work best here.
- Cheese (optional): A slice of cheddar or mozzarella can make them extra gooey.
2.2. Additional Ingredients
- Spices and herbs: Garlic powder, paprika or Italian herbs give more flavour.
- Toppings: Sesame or poppy seeds sprinkle on top for crunch and looks.
- Dipping sauces: Ketchup, mustard or bbq sauce are classics, or try ranch or sriracha mayo if you wanna mix it up.
3. How to Make Pigs in a Blanket with Crescent Rolls
3.1. Preparation Steps
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temp makes the dough puff up and turn golden. Open the crescent roll package and gently unroll it. Separate the dough into triangles on the dotted lines so each one is ready for the sausages.
3.2. Assembly Process
Take a mini hot dog and place it at the wide end of a dough triangle. If youre using cheese, put a small slice on top of the sausage. Roll the dough around the sausage, starting at the wide end and ending at the tip. Dont stretch too much or it might tear.
Lay each roll on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave a bit of space so they cook evenly.
3.3. Baking Instructions
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the rolls are puffed and golden brown. If you wanna check, cut one in half to see if the sausage is hot in the centre. Let them cool a minute before you dig in.
4. Variations of Pigs in a Blanket
4.1. Cheesy Pigs in a Blanket
Just add a slice of cheese with the sausage before wrapping. Cheddar or mozzarella both melt great and make it extra tasty.
4.2. Spicy Pigs in a Blanket
Use spicy sausages or add sliced jalapeños inside. This version is for anyone who loves a bit of heat.
4.3. Vegetarian Options
Swap the sausage for vegetarian hot dogs or even roasted veggies. You get the same fun snack without the meat.
5. Tips for Perfect Pigs in a Blanket
- Keep dough cold: If it gets too warm it gets sticky. Pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes if needed.
- Don’t overload: Too much filling makes the bottoms soggy. A little goes a long way.
- Serve with dips: Lay out a few sauces so folks can pick thier favourite.
6. Popular Dipping Sauces
6.1. Classic Dips
- Mustard: Tangy and simple.
- Ketchup: Sweet and well-known.
- Barbecue sauce: Smoky flavour works great.
6.2. Unique Dips
- Sriracha mayo: Spicy and creamy.
- Cheese sauce: Rich and gooey.
- Ranch dressing: Cool and herby.
7. Serving Suggestions and Pairings
- Side snacks: Try mini salads, veggie sticks or chips for variety.
- Drinks: Soda, beer or cocktails all go nice with these bites.
8. Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store: Put leftovers in an airtight container and fridge them for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10 min so they get crispy again.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
9.1. Can I use other types of dough?
Yes, you can try puff pastry, biscuit dough or even homemade dough. Each will give a different texture.
9.2. How long can I store pigs in a blanket?
They last 3–4 days in the fridge if you keep them in an airtight container. Just reheat before you eat.
9.3. Can I prep these in advance?
Sure, assemble them and keep on a parchment-lined sheet, cover and wrap with plastic, then bake when you ready.
9.4. What are some good sides for pigs in a blanket?
Mini salads, potato wedges or fruit skewers work awesome for a bigger spread.
9.5. Are there gluten-free options available?
Yep, look for gluten-free crescent rolls or dough in the store and check the labels.
Conclusion
Pigs in a blanket with crescent rolls are a crowd-pleaser thats super easy to make and fun to eat. Try the basic recipe or get creative with cheese, spice or veggie fillings. Let us know wich variation you like best!
pigs in a blanket crescent rolls
Equipment
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper optional
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 cooking brush optional
Ingredients
- 2 cans crescent roll dough 8 oz each.
- 12 small hot dogs Cocktail wieners or regular size.
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or your choice, optional.
- 1 egg for egg wash Optional.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds Optional for topping.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Open the cans of crescent roll dough and separate them into triangles along the perforated lines.
- If desired, sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheese on the wide end of each triangle.
- Place a hot dog on each triangle and roll it up tightly, starting from the wide end and wrapping to the point.
- If using, whisk the egg in a small bowl and brush the egg wash over the rolled-up dough for a golden finish.
- Place the wrapped hot dogs on the prepared baking sheet, point side down.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crescent rolls are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.