These festive Holiday Pigs in a Blanket are the perfect appetizer for any gathering. Their flaky puff pastry and savory mini sausages make them an irresistible treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a casual get-together, or just looking for a fun snack, these bite-sized delights will shine on any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious appetizer that impresses guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These mini sausages wrapped in puff pastry are always a hit at parties and gatherings, making them ideal for holiday celebrations.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard adds a unique twist that elevates the taste of classic pigs in a blanket.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or game day, these snacks fit right in with any festive menu.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare them ahead of time and bake them just before serving, freeing up your time for other party preparations.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Pastry cutter or knife
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: This is where your Holiday Pigs in a Blanket will bake to golden perfection. A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your puff pastry evenly, ensuring that each piece wraps snugly around your sausages.
Ingredients
For the Sausages
- 1 pound mini cocktail sausages
For the Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
For the Glaze
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For Dusting
- Flour (for dusting)
How to Make Holiday Pigs in a Blanket
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your pastries from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lightly dust a clean surface with flour. Roll out the puff pastry sheet until smooth. Cut it into strips about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long.
Step 3: Wrap the Sausages
Take one mini sausage and place it at one end of a pastry strip. Roll the pastry around the sausage until it is fully wrapped. Place each wrapped sausage seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process until all sausages are wrapped.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Mix well to ensure even flavor distribution.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Brush each wrapped sausage with beaten egg to give it a golden color during baking. Drizzle or brush some of the maple mustard glaze over each one. Bake in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with any remaining maple mustard glaze for dipping, and enjoy your delightful Holiday Pigs in a Blanket!
How to Serve Holiday Pigs in a Blanket
Serving Holiday Pigs in a Blanket can elevate your gatherings and make them more festive. These delicious bites are not only easy to make, but they can also be paired with various dips and sides to complement their savory flavor.
With Dipping Sauces
- Maple Mustard Glaze: Drizzle or serve this glaze on the side for a sweet and tangy complement.
- Spicy Ketchup: A classic choice that adds a kick to each bite.
- Honey BBQ Sauce: The sweetness of honey mixed with smoky BBQ flavors works wonderfully.
On a Charcuterie Board
- Cheese Selection: Add assorted cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or brie for a delightful contrast.
- Pickles and Olives: These add tanginess and crunch, enhancing the overall experience.
- Fresh Fruit: Grapes, apple slices, or berries can provide a refreshing balance.
As Part of a Themed Buffet
- Holiday Appetizer Spread: Include various finger foods like cheese balls, stuffed mushrooms, and shrimp cocktail alongside the pigs in a blanket.
- Mini Sandwiches: Offer small sandwiches with different fillings for variety.
How to Perfect Holiday Pigs in a Blanket
To ensure your Holiday Pigs in a Blanket turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh mini sausages and high-quality puff pastry for the best taste.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Leave space between each wrapped sausage to allow even cooking and puffing.
- Preheat Your Oven Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to achieve that golden-brown finish.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add different herbs or spices to the glaze for unique flavors.
- Brush Generously with Egg Wash: This step helps create that beautiful golden color on your pastry.
- Allow Cooling Time: Let them cool slightly before serving so they hold their shape better when picked up.
Best Side Dishes for Holiday Pigs in a Blanket
Pairing side dishes with your Holiday Pigs in a Blanket can enhance the flavor profile of your meal. Here are some great options you can consider.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch and hearty accompaniment.
- Coleslaw Salad: A fresh coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and tangy flavor that pairs well with savory bites.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your appetizer spread.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites offer an earthy flavor that complements the mini sausages nicely.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into sauces.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: This creamy dip is always a crowd-pleaser and pairs excellently with flaky pastries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Holiday Pigs in a Blanket can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch for to ensure your appetizer turns out perfectly.
- Using Cold Puff Pastry: Always ensure your puff pastry is fully thawed. Cold pastry can become tough and difficult to work with.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Leave enough space between each wrapped sausage. This allows for proper puffing and browning during baking.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: Don’t skip brushing the pastries with egg wash. It gives them a beautiful golden color and helps the glaze stick.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Make sure your oven is preheated before baking. This ensures even cooking and puffing of the pastry.
- Forgetting to Season: Always season your glaze or sausages. A little salt or spice can elevate the flavor significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store leftover Holiday Pigs in a Blanket in an airtight container.
- item They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Holiday Pigs in a Blanket
- item You can freeze unbaked Holiday Pigs in a Blanket for up to 2 months.
- item Use a freezer-safe container or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Holiday Pigs in a Blanket
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on high for 20-30 seconds, but know that the pastry may lose its crispness.
- Stovetop: Place them in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Holiday Pigs in a Blanket.
Can I make Holiday Pigs in a Blanket ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance. Just refrigerate them before baking and bake them right before serving for the best results.
What kind of sausages work best for Holiday Pigs in a Blanket?
Mini cocktail sausages are ideal, but you can also use other types like chicken or turkey sausages for a lighter option.
How do I customize my Holiday Pigs in a Blanket?
You can add cheese inside the pastry or use different marinades for the glaze, like barbecue sauce or honey mustard for variety.
Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry works wonderfully, though it may require extra time and effort.
Final Thoughts
Holiday Pigs in a Blanket are not only delicious but also versatile. They make an excellent addition to any gathering and allow for various customization options based on your taste preferences. Try experimenting with different glazes and fillings to find your perfect combination!
Holiday Pigs in a Blanket
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 pigs in a blanket 1x
Description
Holiday Pigs in a Blanket are a delightful and festive appetizer that will elevate any gathering. Wrapped in flaky puff pastry, these mini sausages are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying to eat. Perfect for holiday parties, casual get-togethers, or even just a fun snack, this recipe delivers mouthwatering flavor with minimal effort. The addition of a sweet maple mustard glaze adds a unique twist to the classic dish, making them irresistible to guests of all ages. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with delicious dipping sauces, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 pound mini cocktail sausages
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Flour (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry until smooth. Cut it into strips about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long.
- Place one mini sausage at the end of each strip and roll it up tightly. Arrange the wrapped sausages seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a bowl, mix together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and thyme for the glaze.
- Brush each wrapped sausage with beaten egg and drizzle or brush some glaze over them.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and puffed up. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pigs in a blanket (60g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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