Thanksgiving Savory Appetizers: Holiday Pigs in a Blanket

Holiday pigs in a blanket are a cheerful, nostalgic appetizer that brings instant joy to any Christmas gathering. These golden, buttery mini sausages wrapped in flaky pastry are beloved by kids and adults alike — and with just a few festive touches, they’re ready for your holiday party table.

Easy to make, budget-friendly, and highly snackable, these Christmas pigs in a blanket can be served with holiday-inspired dips, shaped into wreaths or trees, or sprinkled with everything bagel seasoning for extra flair. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party, potluck, or cozy family night in, this appetizer disappears fast.

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Ingredients Overview

This classic finger food only requires a few affordable ingredients, but small upgrades make it extra special for the holidays.

Main Ingredients:

• Mini Cocktail Sausages
  Choose your favorite brand (beef, turkey, or plant-based). These smoky bites are the savory center.

• Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough or Puff Pastry
  Crescent rolls offer that soft, buttery bite, while puff pastry adds an elegant flakiness. Either works beautifully.

• Egg Wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water)
  Brushed on top before baking for a golden, glossy finish.

Optional Add-Ons:

• Everything Bagel Seasoning or Poppy Seeds
  For a crunchy, flavorful top.

• Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Parmesan)
  Add a sprinkle inside each wrap for extra indulgence.

• Mustard or Garlic-Herb Spread
  Brush on the inside of the dough before wrapping for a flavor boost.

• Fresh Rosemary (for decoration)
  Use sprigs to garnish if you’re arranging the pigs in a blanket into a wreath shape.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Unroll crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles (or cut puff pastry into rectangles). Cut each triangle into 2 or 3 smaller strips depending on the size of your sausages.

2. Wrap the Sausages

Place one mini sausage on the wide end of each dough strip. Optional: add a tiny pinch of shredded cheese or brush the inside with mustard.

Roll up the dough around the sausage and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.

3. Add Festive Touches

• Brush each roll with egg wash for shine.

• Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or flaky salt if desired.

4. Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. The dough should be fully cooked and lightly crispy.

5. Serve Warm with Dips

Arrange on a holiday platter or shape into a wreath with rosemary sprigs tucked in for greenery.

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Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas

• Make It a Wreath: Arrange the uncooked rolls in a circle with ends slightly overlapping. After baking, garnish with fresh rosemary and cranberries for a festive centerpiece.

• Spicy Twist: Add a tiny slice of jalapeño or a dab of hot sauce inside each roll.

• Cheesy Upgrade: Place a slice of cheese under each sausage before rolling for a gooey center.

• Vegetarian Option: Use meat-free cocktail sausages or cheese sticks in place of traditional sausage.

• Freezer Friendly: Assemble and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the cooking time.

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Perfect Dips for Christmas Pigs in a Blanket

Offer a few festive dips to take this classic snack to the next level:

• Honey Mustard (Sweet + tangy)

• Cranberry BBQ Sauce (Seasonal twist)

• Spicy Dijon Aioli

• Ranch or Sriracha Mayo

• Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Serve dips in small ramekins or mini mason jars for a polished look.

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Occasion Ideas

These holiday pigs in a blanket are ideal for:

• Christmas Eve Appetizers

• Holiday Potlucks

• Kid-Friendly Party Food

• Cocktail Hour Snacks

• Brunch Boards

Pair with mulled wine, hot cider, or sparkling mocktails for a festive bite-and-sip combo.

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Nutritional & Budget Notes

This recipe is:

• Budget-Friendly: Only a few inexpensive ingredients needed.

• Crowd-Pleasing: Easily scaled up for a party.

• Quick to Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.

Each serving (3–4 pieces) is roughly 250–300 calories, depending on dough and cheese used.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use full-size hot dogs?

A1: Yes. Cut them into thirds to make cocktail-sized pieces or leave whole for a heartier option. Adjust baking time accordingly.

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Q2: How do I keep them warm for a party?

A2: Serve on a warming tray or place in a low oven (200°F) loosely covered with foil. You can also reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven if needed.

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Q3: Can I make them ahead?

A3: Yes. Assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake right before serving for best texture.

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Q4: Are they freezer-friendly?

A4: Absolutely. Freeze unbaked wrapped sausages on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen — no thawing needed.

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Q5: Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?

A5: Definitely. Puff pastry gives a flakier finish. Cut into small strips and proceed as usual.

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Q6: What’s the best way to serve them for a party?

A6: Arrange on a round platter with rosemary sprigs and cranberries tucked in for a “holiday wreath” look, or on a tiered tray for visual appeal.

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Q7: Are pigs in a blanket kid-friendly?

A7: Yes — they’re a favorite with kids. Offer ketchup or mild cheese sauce for dipping, and consider skipping spicy additions.

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