Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket

Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket are a fun and delicious twist on the classic breakfast! They combine savory breakfast sausages wrapped in warm, flaky pastry, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving them for a special weekend brunch or grabbing a quick bite on a busy morning, these breakfast treats are easy to make, portable, and always a hit with both kids and adults.

Unlike traditional pigs in a blanket (which typically use cocktail sausages and crescent rolls), breakfast pigs in a blanket are made with halal breakfast sausages wrapped in buttery, flaky puff pastry or crescent dough. The result is a handheld breakfast that’s perfect for dipping in maple syrup or serving with a side of scrambled eggs. And if you’re feeling creative, you can even add some cheese or vegetables to the mix for extra flavor.

I love making these breakfast pigs in a blanket because they’re quick to prepare, customizable, and a crowd-pleaser. They’re especially great for those mornings when you need something portable but still want a filling, savory breakfast. The combination of tender, juicy sausage wrapped in golden, flaky pastry is incredibly satisfying, and they’re versatile enough to serve for breakfast, brunch, or even as a savory snack.

Why You’ll Love These Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket

1. Halal-Friendly: By using halal breakfast sausages, this recipe ensures everyone can enjoy these savory treats.
2. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and only a few ingredients, these breakfast pigs in a blanket come together quickly, making them perfect for busy mornings or a casual brunch.
3. Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or add extras like cheese, vegetables, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-savory combo.
4. Portable: These are perfect for on-the-go breakfasts! They’re easy to eat with your hands and make a great breakfast option when you’re in a rush.
5. Kid-Friendly: Breakfast pigs in a blanket are always a hit with kids. They’re fun to eat, and the mix of sausage and pastry makes them an irresistible breakfast or snack.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4-6

Nutritional Information (per pig in a blanket)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Carbs: 15g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

(These values are approximate and will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes.)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious breakfast pigs in a blanket:

For the Pigs in a Blanket:

• 8 halal breakfast sausages (chicken or beef)
• 1 sheet of puff pastry or 1 can of crescent roll dough
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for brushing the sausages)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Cheese: 4 slices of cheddar or Swiss cheese, cut in half to wrap around the sausages for an extra cheesy bite.
• Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the pastry for a more savory breakfast.
• Maple Syrup or Honey: For a sweet-and-savory combo, brush the sausages with a bit of syrup or honey before wrapping them in the dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry or Crescent Dough

If you’re using puff pastry, thaw it according to the package instructions. Roll the puff pastry out on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 8 equal strips, each large enough to wrap around a sausage.

If you’re using crescent roll dough, unroll the dough and separate it into 8 triangles, following the perforated lines on the dough. You’ll wrap each sausage in one of these triangles.

Step 3: Prepare the Sausages

Cook the halal breakfast sausages in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re fully cooked through and browned on the outside. If you’re using pre-cooked sausages, simply warm them in the skillet for a few minutes to brown them. Let the sausages cool slightly before wrapping them in the pastry.

Step 4: Assemble the Pigs in a Blanket

If you want a sweet-savory twist, brush each sausage lightly with maple syrup or honey before wrapping them in the dough. This adds a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory sausage.

Place each sausage on a strip of puff pastry or crescent dough. If you’re adding cheese, place a small slice of cheddar or Swiss cheese on the dough before adding the sausage. Wrap the pastry or dough around the sausage, starting at one end and rolling it up. Make sure the dough is snug around the sausage, but don’t stretch it too thin.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Garnish

In a small bowl, beat the egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the pastry-wrapped sausages with the egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish once baked. If you like, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of each one for added texture and flavor.

Step 6: Bake

Place the assembled pigs in a blanket on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow the pastry to puff up. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed. If you’re using crescent dough, check the package instructions for the recommended baking time and adjust accordingly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pigs in a blanket are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. Serve warm, with a side of maple syrup, ketchup, or even honey mustard for dipping. These are perfect for breakfast or brunch, but they also make a fun snack or appetizer.

How to Serve

• Brunch Spread: Serve these breakfast pigs in a blanket as part of a brunch spread with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and coffee for a complete and satisfying meal.
• On-the-Go Breakfast: Wrap the pigs in a blanket in foil or parchment paper for a quick and portable breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings.
• Party Appetizer: These mini pigs in a blanket also make a great addition to a party menu, especially if you’re hosting a brunch or a casual gathering.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Use Halal Breakfast Sausages: Be sure to use halal breakfast sausages to keep the recipe halal-friendly. You can find chicken or beef sausages at most supermarkets, or even turkey sausages for a leaner option.
2. Don’t Overstuff the Pastry: Be mindful not to overfill the pastry dough with sausage or add-ins, as this can cause the dough to tear during baking. Keep the filling snug but not too tight.
3. Cook the Sausages First: Whether you’re using fresh or pre-cooked sausages, always cook them before wrapping them in the pastry. This ensures that the sausage is fully cooked and prevents the dough from becoming soggy.
4. Brush with Egg Wash for a Golden Finish: The egg wash helps the pastry turn golden brown and shiny during baking. Don’t skip this step if you want a professional-looking finish.
5. Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add cheese, vegetables, or other fillings to customize your pigs in a blanket. You can even try different sauces for dipping, like honey mustard, ketchup, or spicy sriracha.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about breakfast pigs in a blanket is that they’re highly customizable. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Cheesy Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket:

Add a slice of your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack, to the pastry before wrapping the sausage. The cheese melts during baking, creating a gooey, savory surprise inside.

2. Sweet-and-Savory Pigs in a Blanket:

Brush the sausages with a little maple syrup or honey before wrapping them in the dough for a sweet-and-savory combination. You can also drizzle some syrup over the top once they’re baked.

3. Veggie Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket:

Add a layer of sautéed vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, inside the pastry before wrapping the sausages. This adds an extra layer of flavor and nutrition to the dish.

4. Crescent Roll Pigs in a Blanket:

For a more traditional flavor, use crescent roll dough instead of puff pastry. The crescent dough creates a softer, more buttery exterior and pairs wonderfully with the breakfast sausage.

5. Everything Bagel Pigs in a Blanket:

For a fun twist, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the top of the pastry-wrapped sausages before baking. The seasoning adds a savory, garlicky crunch that takes these pigs in a blanket to the next level.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

If you have any leftover pigs in a blanket, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

Freezing:

These breakfast pigs in a blanket freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. To freeze, let them cool completely after baking, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat the frozen pigs in a blanket in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.

Special Equipment

• Baking Sheet: Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
• Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is helpful for applying the egg wash and giving the pastries a golden, shiny finish.
• Rolling Pin: If using puff pastry, a rolling pin helps roll out the dough evenly to ensure it wraps snugly around the sausages.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of dough?

Yes! You can use puff pastry, crescent roll dough, or even biscuit dough for this recipe. Each type of dough will give the pigs in a blanket a slightly different texture. Puff pastry is flaky, while crescent roll dough is softer and more buttery.

2. Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use halal chicken, beef, or turkey breakfast sausages for this recipe. If you want a leaner option, turkey sausages work wonderfully.

3. How do I make sure the pastry doesn’t get soggy?

Cooking the sausages before wrapping them in pastry helps prevent sogginess. Also, don’t overstuff the pastry, and make sure to seal the edges well to prevent any juices from leaking out during baking.

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

Yes, you can prepare the pigs in a blanket ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them perfect for meal prep or preparing ahead for a brunch gathering.

5. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?

Yes! Puff pastry will give you a flakier, more golden result, while crescent roll dough will be softer and fluffier. Both work well, so it’s up to your preference.

Conclusion

Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket are the perfect way to elevate your breakfast game with minimal effort. These savory treats combine the richness of halal breakfast sausages with the flaky goodness of puff pastry or crescent dough, creating a portable breakfast that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these pigs in a blanket are sure to please everyone at the table.

The recipe is quick, easy, and highly customizable, so feel free to get creative by adding cheese, veggies, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-savory combo. And don’t forget to make a double batch—they freeze beautifully and reheat easily, making them perfect for meal prep.

I hope you enjoy making (and devouring) these breakfast pigs in a blanket as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your own variations and enjoy these crowd-pleasers any time of day.

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