There’s a certain joy that comes with baking, especially when the tantalizing aroma of buttery pastry fills the kitchen. This is exactly how I felt when I whipped up a batch of classic pigs in a blanket—those irresistible bites that somehow always steal the spotlight at parties. With just a simple wrap of flaky crescent dough around juicy mini cocktail wieners, these crowd-pleasing morsels are not only a hit but also incredibly quick to prepare. You can have them ready in under 30 minutes, making them the perfect last-minute appetizer or snack for any gathering.
But the beauty of this recipe lies not just in its simplicity; it’s versatile enough to spark your creativity! Why not try them with a hint of spicy jalapeño or hand them over a more gourmet aplomb with gourmet dipping sauces? Join me as we discover how to create these delightful pigs in a blanket and elevate your snacking game, because once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re a staple in my kitchen.
Why are Pigs In A Blanket a must-try?
Irresistible Appeal: Pigs in a blanket are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Variations: Get creative by adding flavorful twists like jalapeño or cheese.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance; they stay fresh in the fridge for hours!
Perfect Pairing: Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces for a fun, interactive snack.
Always a Hit: With their flaky crust and savory filling, they are bound to steal the show!
Pigs in a Blanket Ingredients
For the Dough
• Crescent rolls (8-oz. tube) – The flaky and buttery base that forms the perfect wrap for the wieners.
• All-purpose flour – Dust the work surface to prevent the dough from sticking.
For the Filling
• Mini cocktail wieners (12-oz. package) – The star of the show, providing savory and juicy deliciousness.
For Brushing
• Melted unsalted butter (4 Tbsp) – Gives the dough a golden-brown finish and adds richness.
• Coarse salt – Enhances flavors and adds a delightful crunch on top.
For Dipping Sauce
• Mayo (1/2 cup) – A creamy base for a delicious dipping sauce or to mix with the other flavors.
• Dijon mustard (1/4 cup) – Adds a zesty punch that pairs perfectly with the savory wieners.
• Honey (2 Tbsp) – Sweetens the sauce, balancing the tang of the mustard beautifully.
• Lime juice (1 Tbsp) – Brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing to your dipping experience.
Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to create your perfect pigs in a blanket recipe!
How to Make Pigs in a Blanket
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an even bake and that your pigs in a blanket will turn out beautifully golden brown.
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Prepare Surface: Dust a clean work surface lightly with all-purpose flour. This will prevent the crescent dough from sticking as you unroll and cut it into triangles.
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Cut Dough: Open the tube of crescent rolls and gently unroll the dough. Cut it into smaller triangles, aiming for about 2 inches wide at the base for optimal wrapping.
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Wrap Wieners: Place a mini cocktail wiener at the thicker end of each triangle and roll it up towards the thinner tip. Make sure to seal the edges well to keep all the deliciousness inside!
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Arrange on Sheet: Place the rolled pigs in a blanket on a lined baking sheet. Don’t crowd them—give each one a little space to puff up nicely.
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Brush and Season: Brush the tops of the rolled dough with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt to enhance the flavor and promote a crispy texture.
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Bake: Pop them in the oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and flaky. Enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen!
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Make Dipping Sauce: While they bake, mix together mayo, Dijon mustard, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl for a fabulous dipping sauce.
Optional: Serve with ketchup or your favorite sauces for a fun twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pigs In A Blanket
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Fridge: Store leftover pigs in a blanket in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack!
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Freezer: If you want to make them ahead, freeze assembled but unbaked pigs in a blanket for up to 2 months. Just lay them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container.
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Reheating: To reheat, place leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through and crispy again.
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Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble pigs in blanket in advance and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking, perfect for managing your time during parties!
Pigs In A Blanket Variations
Feel free to have some fun and make this recipe your own with these creative twists!
- Spicy Kick: Mix diced jalapeños into the cream cheese before wrapping the wieners for a delightful heat. Spice lovers will rejoice!
- Cheesy Delight: Add a slice of your favorite cheese to each wiener before rolling them up for a savory, gooey surprise inside.
- Puff Pastry: Swap your crescent rolls for puff pastry to create an ultra-flaky texture that adds a gourmet touch to your pigs in a blanket.
- Bacon-Wrapped: For an indulgent twist, wrap each wiener in bacon before rolling in dough—crispy, meaty goodness straight from the oven!
- Herbed Dough: Infuse the crescent roll dough with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic and irresistible flavor that elevates the dish.
- Sweet and Savory: Brush the dough with a mix of honey and mustard before baking for a sweet glaze that pairs beautifully with the savory filling.
- Veggie Version: Substitute mini wieners with roasted bell peppers or zucchini sticks for a vegetarian-friendly option that’s just as delicious.
- Mediterranean Flavor: Use feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair, creating a tasty twist that’s fresh and vibrant.
What to Serve with Pigs in a Blanket?
There’s nothing quite like the delightful crunch of a pig in a blanket to kick off a gathering, and pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate your entire meal experience.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture offer a delightful contrast to the salty, savory wieners.
- Zesty Coleslaw: This refreshing crunch adds brightness and a touch of tang, perfectly balancing the rich flavors.
- Classic Potato Salad: Creamy and soothing, it complements the flaky bites, providing a hearty comfort food experience.
- Vegetable Platter: Crisp, fresh raw veggies with a dip bring color and health, making your snack spread more vibrant. They also add a fresh crunch that pairs well with the richness of the pigs in a blanket.
- Deviled Eggs: These creamy, tangy treats add a retro charm and are always a hit at gatherings, perfectly balancing the other flavors.
- Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: This sweet and tangy sauce enhances the flavor of both the pigs in a blanket and any side dish, creating a fantastic dipping experience.
- Iced Lemonade: A chilled beverage option to cut through the richness, its refreshing zing is the perfect companion for your savory bites.
- Cheesy Nachos: The warm, melty cheese with crisp tortilla chips adds a fun, indulgent element that your guests will love.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, these classic desserts provide a nostalgic touch that perfectly rounds out your spread.
By combining these delightful options, you’re sure to create a fun and memorable feast that’ll keep everyone coming back for seconds!
Expert Tips for Pigs in a Blanket
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Seal Properly: Ensure you seal the dough edges well to keep the pigs in a blanket from unrolling during baking. A tight seal makes all the difference!
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Extra Flavor: Sprinkle garlic powder or your favorite herbs on top before baking for an added flavor boost that takes these bites to the next level.
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Chill Before Baking: If making ahead, assemble and refrigerate. Chilling helps maintain the dough’s shape and freshness while waiting for guests!
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Dough Management: Avoid sticking by dusting the work surface with flour generously, and work quickly to prevent the dough from getting too warm.
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Size Matters: For a larger snack, swap mini cocktail wieners for full-sized hot dogs—just remember to adjust baking time accordingly.
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Rest and Reheat: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to retain their crispy texture. Enjoy your homemade delights!
Make Ahead Options
Pigs in a blanket are a fantastic choice for meal prep! To save time, you can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Simply complete all the steps up to placing them on the baking sheet, then cover tightly with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. This also helps maintain their flaky texture. When it’s time to serve, just preheat the oven and pop them in for baking—no need to defrost. You’ll have delicious, golden-brown pigs in a blanket ready to delight your guests with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy the gathering without stress!
Pigs in a Blanket Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right crescent rolls for my pigs in a blanket?
Absolutely! Look for refrigerated crescent rolls that are fresh and haven’t passed their expiration date. Opt for a brand that feels soft to the touch and is free of any dark spots on the packaging. This ensures your blanket wraps up perfectly flaky and delicious!
How should I store leftover pigs in a blanket?
Very good question! Store your leftover pigs in a blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they cool completely before sealing them to maintain that delightful texture and prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze pigs in a blanket before baking?
Yes! If you’d like to prepare your pigs in a blanket in advance, you can assemble them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer for an extra 5 minutes.
What should I do if my dough keeps unrolling during baking?
If you find that your pigs in a blanket are unrolling while baking, it’s likely that the edges weren’t sealed tightly enough. To avoid this, ensure that you press the dough edges firmly together after wrapping the wiener. Also, consider chilling the assembled pigs in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before baking to help the dough hold its shape better.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for pigs in a blanket?
Absolutely! If you’re making pigs in a blanket for guests with dietary restrictions, be sure to look for gluten-free crescent roll options if someone is gluten-sensitive. For those with allergies, double-check the ingredients in the wieners, as variations may contain allergens like soy or dairy.
Can I prepare pigs in a blanket ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pigs in a blanket and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking. This way, they’re ready to go when your guests arrive, and you can enjoy your time with them rather than spending it in the kitchen! Just cover them with a damp paper towel or plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out.
Pigs in a Blanket: Your Ultimate Easy Party Snack Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Dust a clean work surface lightly with all-purpose flour.
- Open the tube of crescent rolls and gently unroll the dough. Cut it into smaller triangles, about 2 inches wide at the base.
- Place a mini cocktail wiener at the thicker end of each triangle and roll it up towards the thinner tip. Seal the edges well.
- Place the rolled pigs in a blanket on a lined baking sheet, giving each one a little space.
- Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
- While they bake, mix together mayo, Dijon mustard, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl for a dipping sauce.