Sticky pigs in blankets have always been a cherished holiday tradition in my family. I can still vividly remember the excitement I felt as a child, eagerly awaiting the moment when my grandma would pull that tray of golden, sticky-sweet perfection out of the oven. The enticing aroma would fill the air, and I just couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into those irresistible little bites.
Grandma’s sticky pigs in blankets were the stuff of legends. She had this special trick of brushing the dough-wrapped sausages with a sweet glaze that would caramelize to a glistening sheen in the oven. And the texture – oh, the texture! The crisp, flaky pastry casing would give way to the juicy, savory sausage inside, all coated in that sticky-sweet sauce. It was pure heaven on a plate.
I can still picture myself as a kid, hovering around the kitchen, hoping to snatch one off the tray before anyone else. And of course, I always had to be the first to try them, just to make sure Grandma’s recipe was up to par. (Spoiler alert: it always was!) Those sticky pigs in blankets were the centerpiece of our holiday feasts, bringing everyone together around the table to share in the deliciousness.
Why This Sticky Pigs In Blankets Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
Now, as an adult, I’ve made it my mission to recreate Grandma’s legendary sticky pigs in blankets. And let me tell you, this recipe is the real deal. It’s the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and downright irresistible. Trust me, once you try these, they’re going to become a staple in your household, just like they were in mine.
The Secret Behind Perfect Sticky Pigs In Blankets
The secret lies in the glaze. I’ve experimented with all sorts of sauces and glazes, and I’ve finally landed on the perfect combination that replicates the sticky-sweet magic of Grandma’s version. Plus, I’ve added a few extra tricks to ensure that the pastry comes out flaky and golden every single time. These sticky pigs in blankets are sure to impress your friends and family, and they’ll have everyone begging for the recipe.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Puff pastry: The foundation of your sticky pigs in blankets. Look for a high-quality, all-butter puff pastry for the ultimate flaky texture.
- Cocktail sausages: Also known as “lil’ smokies” or mini hot dogs, these are the stars of the show.
- Brown sugar: The key ingredient in the sticky glaze that will caramelize to perfection.
- Butter: For brushing the pastry and adding richness to the glaze.
- Mustard: A touch of spicy-tangy Dijon mustard to balance out the sweetness.
- Worcestershire sauce: Just a splash adds a savory depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Sticky Pigs In Blankets Instructions
Preparing Your Sticky Pigs In Blankets
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This recipe is simple, but the results are truly show-stopping. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a batch of perfectly golden, sticky-sweet pigs in blankets ready to impress.
1- Unroll your puff pastry and cut it into long strips, about 1-inch wide.
2- Wrap each cocktail sausage in a strip of puff pastry, overlapping the ends slightly to seal.
3- Arrange the wrapped sausages on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart.
4- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5- Brush the sticky glaze all over the wrapped sausages, making sure to cover them completely.
6- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfectly sticky pigs in blankets is all in the timing and technique. Be sure to keep a close eye on them in the oven, as the sugar in the glaze can cause them to burn quickly if you’re not careful. And don’t be afraid to get a little creative with the flavors – try adding a pinch of spice or swapping out the Dijon for a different type of mustard.
Serving and Storing Your Sticky Pigs In Blankets
Perfect Pairings for Sticky Pigs In Blankets
These sticky pigs in blankets are the ultimate party food, perfect for holiday gatherings, game day celebrations, or any occasion where you want to wow your guests. Serve them alongside a tangy honey mustard dipping sauce, or pair them with a crisp, refreshing salad for a little balance. And don’t forget the bubbly – a glass of champagne or sparkling wine is the perfect complement to these bite-sized treats.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Luckily, sticky pigs in blankets are a breeze to make ahead of time. You can assemble them and bake them off a day or two in advance, then simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crispy. They’ll also keep in the fridge for up to a week, so you can enjoy them all week long.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Sticky Pigs In Blankets
Creative Sticky Pigs In Blankets Variations
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s endlessly customizable. Try swapping out the cocktail sausages for different types of mini-links, like spicy Italian or turkey. Or get creative with the glaze – a maple-bourbon version would be delicious, or you could try a honey-mustard twist. And for the adventurous eaters, you could even add a sprinkle of chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for a fiery kick.
Making Sticky Pigs In Blankets Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make these sticky pigs in blankets a little more diet-friendly, there are a few simple swaps you can try. Use a gluten-free puff pastry to make them gluten-free, or opt for a vegan-friendly sausage alternative to make them plant-based. You can also lighten up the glaze by using a sugar-free sweetener or cutting back on the butter. No matter how you make them, these sticky pigs in blankets are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular hot dogs instead of cocktail sausages?
A: Absolutely! Cocktail sausages are the traditional choice, but you can definitely use regular-sized hot dogs or sausages as well. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces before wrapping them in the puff pastry.
Q: How long do I need to bake the sticky pigs in blankets?
A: I recommend baking them for 18-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C), or until the pastry is golden brown and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized. Keep a close eye on them towards the end, as the sugar in the glaze can cause them to burn quickly if you’re not careful.
Q: Can I make these sticky pigs in blankets ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can definitely make these in advance! You can assemble the pigs in blankets and bake them off a day or two before you plan to serve them. Just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Q: How many sticky pigs in blankets does this recipe make?
A: This recipe will make about 24-30 sticky pigs in blankets, depending on how thinly you slice the puff pastry and how many sausages you use. It’s a great party-sized batch that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Q: What if the glaze starts to burn in the oven?
A: If you notice the glaze starting to burn, simply tent the baking sheet with a piece of foil for the remainder of the baking time. This will help prevent the glaze from burning while still allowing the pastry to get nice and crispy.
Sticky Pigs In Blankets
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 12
Description
Indulge in the irresistible combination of savory sausage wrapped in crispy, buttery dough with this easy-to-make Sticky Pigs In Blankets recipe. Perfect for parties, game days, or any festive occasion.
Ingredients
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 12 small sausages or cocktail franks
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. Unroll the puff pastry and cut it into 12 equal strips.
3. 3. Wrap each sausage or cocktail frank in a strip of puff pastry, sealing the edges with a little water.
4. 4. Arrange the wrapped sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. 5. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
6. 6. Brush the tops of the wrapped sausages with the butter mixture.
7. 7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the sausages are cooked through.
8. 8. Serve the Sticky Pigs In Blankets warm, with your favorite dipping sauces on the side.
Notes
For a spicier twist, try using hot Italian sausages or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture. You can also experiment with different types of sausages or cocktail franks to find your favorite variation.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
There’s just something so special and nostalgic about sticky pigs in blankets. They’ve been a beloved holiday tradition in my family for as long as I can remember, and now I’m thrilled to be able to share this recipe with you. Trust me, once you try these irresistible little bites, they’re going to become a staple in your household too.
So what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven and get ready to wow your friends and family with the most delicious sticky pigs in blankets they’ve ever tasted. And don’t forget to let me know how they turn out – I’d love to hear all about your own sticky pigs in blankets memories and experiences!
