Cocktail Sausages in Crescent Rolls

This classic pigs in a blanket recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible appetizer that disappears within minutes at any gathering. The addition of garlic butter elevates these bite-sized treats from ordinary to extraordinary, giving them a savory finish that guests will rave about.

I first made these for a last minute Super Bowl party when I needed something quick that would please everyone. They were such a hit that they've become my signature appetizer for every gathering since then.

Ingredients

• Crescent roll dough the buttery flaky texture creates the perfect blanket for the sausages
• Cocktail sausages look for all beef or pork varieties for the best flavor
• Large egg creates a golden brown exterior when brushed on the dough
• Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish
• Garlic powder adds aromatic depth without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has
• Fresh parsley brings a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes
• Ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth to the garlic butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare your workspace

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning. The parchment also makes cleanup effortless.

Prepare the dough

Unroll the crescent dough carefully onto a clean cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut it in half lengthwise first then proceed to cut it into 24 equal strips. Work quickly as the dough becomes more difficult to handle as it warms up.

Wrap the sausages

Place one cocktail sausage at the wider end of each dough strip and roll it up tightly ensuring the dough wraps completely around the sausage. Seal the edge by gently pressing it against the roll to prevent unraveling during baking.

Arrange for baking

Place each wrapped sausage seam side down on the prepared baking sheet allowing about an inch between each for proper air circulation and even browning.

Egg wash application

Beat the egg in a small bowl until completely combined then use a pastry brush to lightly coat each wrapped sausage. This creates a beautiful golden shine and helps seal the dough.

Baking process

Place the baking sheet in the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the dough is puffed and golden brown. The exact time may vary depending on your oven.

Prepare the garlic butter

While the pigs in blankets are baking combine the melted butter garlic powder chopped parsley and black pepper in a small bowl whisking thoroughly to combine all flavors.

Finish with garlic butter

As soon as the pigs in blankets come out of the oven brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. The heat from the freshly baked rolls will help absorb the flavors.

Serve immediately

Arrange on a serving platter with small bowls of ketchup mustard or other dipping sauces of your choice for a complete appetizer experience.

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The garlic butter is truly what makes these pigs in blankets special in my opinion. I discovered this addition when trying to use up some leftover garlic butter from making garlic bread and now I cannot imagine making them any other way. The buttery garlic aroma that fills the kitchen when you brush it on the hot pastry brings everyone running to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

These savory bites can be prepared several hours in advance and kept refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply prepare them through the wrapping stage cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add the egg wash just before baking. If you need to make them even further ahead you can freeze the assembled unbaked pigs in blankets on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen. When ready to serve bake directly from frozen adding 3 to 5 minutes to the baking time.

Creative Variations

While the classic recipe is always a crowd pleaser there are numerous ways to customize these tasty morsels. Try sprinkling everything bagel seasoning cheese or poppy seeds on top before baking. For a spicy version add a thin slice of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to each sausage before wrapping. You can also experiment with different types of sausages such as chicken apple sausage or spicy chorizo for varied flavor profiles.

Dipping Sauce Suggestions

The perfect dipping sauce can take these pigs in a blanket to another level of deliciousness. Beyond the standard ketchup and mustard consider offering honey mustard barbecue sauce ranch dressing or a spicy sriracha mayo. For a gourmet touch prepare a quick cheese dip by melting cream cheese with a splash of milk and stirring in shredded cheddar until smooth. My family particularly loves a maple syrup and dijon mustard blend that balances sweet and tangy flavors perfectly.

The History Behind the Dish

Pigs in a blanket have been a beloved appetizer in American cuisine since the 1950s when convenience foods became increasingly popular. The name itself is charmingly descriptive with the sausage representing the pig and the dough acting as its blanket. Interestingly similar dishes exist worldwide with variations in the UK Denmark and even parts of Asia. The enduring popularity of this simple appetizer speaks to its perfect combination of savory flavors flaky texture and handheld convenience.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these pigs in a blanket ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap the prepared (unbaked) appetizers in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to serve, brush with egg wash and bake as directed, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time since they'll be cold from the refrigerator.

→ What dipping sauces work best with pigs in a blanket?

Classic options include yellow mustard, dijon mustard, ketchup, and BBQ sauce. For more gourmet options, try honey mustard, sriracha mayo, cheese sauce, or a creamy ranch dip. The combination of the savory sausage and buttery pastry pairs well with both tangy and creamy dips.

→ Can I use different types of sausages?

Absolutely! While cocktail sausages (like Lit'l Smokies) are traditional, you can experiment with different varieties. Try cheese-filled cocktail franks, spicy andouille cut into small pieces, or even plant-based vegetarian sausages for a meat-free alternative.

→ How do I keep pigs in a blanket warm for a party?

After baking, transfer them to a slow cooker set on the 'warm' setting. For best results, place a layer of parchment paper on the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent sticking. Alternatively, keep them in a warm oven (200°F) until ready to serve, or use a warming tray if available.

→ Can I freeze pigs in a blanket?

Yes, they freeze beautifully! Arrange assembled but unbaked pigs in a blanket on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.

→ What variations can I try with this basic recipe?

Get creative with add-ons! Before wrapping, add a small slice of cheese, a thin strip of jalapeño, or a dab of cream cheese. You can also sprinkle the tops with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds before baking. For a breakfast version, use breakfast sausage links and serve with maple syrup for dipping.