Sticky Pigs Blankets have a magical way of disappearing the second they hit the party table! I remember the first time I made these for a holiday gathering; the scent of sweet, caramelized bacon and savory sausage wafted through my kitchen, and my guests were instantly drawn in. It’s such an easy recipe, and the joy on people’s faces when they bite into these little flavor bombs is priceless. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this sticky pig in a blanket recipe is sure to be a winner. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Sticky Pigs Blankets
Get ready to wow your guests with these amazing appetizers! They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Effortless to Make: Even if you’re new to cooking, these sticky pigs blankets come together in a snap.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of savory sausage, flaky pastry, and a sweet, sticky glaze is irresistible.
- Perfect Party Appetizer: They’re bite-sized and delicious, making them the ultimate finger food for gatherings.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this sticky pig in a blanket recipe to suit your taste.
- Visually Appealing: The golden-brown pastry and glistening glaze make these a beautiful addition to any spread.
- Quick Cooking Time: These are ready in under 45 minutes total, so you won’t spend all day in the kitchen.
- Deliciously Sticky: The sweet and sticky pigs blankets are addictive!
Ingredients for Sticky Pigs Blankets
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to making the best sticky pigs blankets. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, ensuring you have all the sticky pigs in a blanket ingredients you need for a delicious appetizer.
- 1 lb cocktail sausages – these are the savory stars of our sticky piggies recipe!
- 1 lb puff pastry – I love using puff pastry because it bakes up so light and flaky, giving us that perfect contrast to the sausage. Make sure it’s thawed according to package directions.
- 1 egg, beaten – this acts as our “glue” to seal the pastry around the sausages and gives them a beautiful golden sheen when brushed on top.
- 1/4 cup honey – the base for our sweet and sticky glaze, honey provides a wonderful caramelization.
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce – this adds a tangy depth to our glaze, complementing the sweetness of the honey.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – for a salty umami kick that balances the sweet and tangy flavors in our glaze.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – a little savory punch to round out the glaze.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – adds a hint of color and a subtle earthy flavor to the glaze.
How to Make Sticky Pigs Blankets
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze, trust me!
- Step 2: Now, let’s get those pastry strips ready. Roll out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Then, carefully cut it into 1-inch wide strips, each about 4 inches long. These are perfect little blankets for our pigs!
- Step 3: Time to wrap! Take each cocktail sausage and wrap a pastry strip around it, starting from one end and overlapping slightly as you go. Seal the edge with a little of the beaten egg wash so it stays put. Place them seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet.
- Step 4: Give your wrapped sausages a little love by brushing the tops generously with the remaining egg wash. This is what gives them that beautiful golden-brown color as they bake.
- Step 5: Let’s make that irresistible glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and paprika. You want this mixture to be smooth and well combined. The aroma alone is amazing!
- Step 6: Bake these beauties for about 15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up and looks gorgeously golden brown. You’ll start to smell that sweet, savory goodness filling your kitchen.
- Step 7: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Now, it’s time to brush that glorious glaze all over the tops of your pigs in blankets. Make sure they’re well coated!
- Step 8: Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 5 minutes. This final bake is crucial for caramelizing that sweet and sticky glaze, making them truly irresistible.
- Step 9: Once they’re out of the oven and the glaze is beautifully caramelized, let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They’re best served warm, so get ready for some happy bites!
Pro Tips for the Best Sticky Pigs Blankets
Want to elevate your sticky pigs blankets from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference in getting that perfect balance of flaky pastry and caramelized glaze.
- Always use good quality cocktail sausages; they really make a difference in the final flavor of your sticky piggies recipe.
- Don’t overwork the puff pastry when rolling it out; you want it to remain pliable and not tear.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps the puff pastry achieve its best rise.
- For an extra-shiny glaze, brush it on during the last few minutes of baking.
What’s the secret to perfect Sticky Pigs Blankets?
The secret to perfect sticky pigs blankets is the glaze caramelization. Baking them initially, then brushing the glaze and returning them to the oven for that final five minutes allows the sugars to melt and adhere beautifully to the pastry. For more baking tips, check out this guide on ingredient substitutions.
Can I make Sticky Pigs Blankets ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! Assemble the pigs in blankets up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. You might need to add a couple of extra minutes to the initial baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Sticky Pigs Blankets?
A common pitfall is underbaking the pastry, which can lead to a soggy bottom. Make sure the pastry is golden brown before glazing. Also, don’t overload the baking sheet; give them a little space so they bake evenly.
Best Ways to Serve Sticky Pigs Blankets
These sticky pigs blankets are so versatile! I love serving them as a fun appetizer for game days or holiday parties. They’re fantastic on their own, but pairing them with a complementary side takes them to the next level. For a classic pairing, a simple side of extra barbecue sauce or a honey mustard dipping sauce is always a hit. You could also serve them alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter option, or with some mini sliders for a more substantial snack spread. They’re truly the best sticky pigs blankets for any gathering!
Nutrition Facts for Sticky Pigs Blankets
When you’re making these delightful sticky pigs blankets, it’s helpful to know what you’re serving. This recipe provides a tasty appetizer that’s perfect for sharing.
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Sticky Pigs Blankets
Don’t worry if you have leftovers of these amazing sticky pigs blankets! Once they’ve cooled down completely, you can store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re planning to keep them longer, freezing is your best bet. Wrap individual pigs in blankets tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple!
For best results, reheat your sticky pigs blankets in a single layer on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps keep the pastry nice and flaky. You can also reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat, or even in an air fryer for a few minutes. This ensures you can enjoy those delicious bacon wrapped pigs blankets anytime!
Frequently Asked Questions About Sticky Pigs Blankets
What makes these pigs in a blanket sticky?
The “sticky” comes from the delicious glaze we brush on them! It’s a sweet and savory mixture of honey, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. This glaze is what makes our sticky pigs blankets so irresistible and addictive.
Can I use different types of sausages for this sticky pig in a blanket recipe?
Absolutely! While cocktail sausages are classic, feel free to experiment. Beef smoked sausages, kielbasa cut into smaller pieces, or even vegetarian sausages work wonderfully. Just ensure they’re bite-sized so they fit well within the pastry. This flexibility makes our homemade sticky pigs blankets even more versatile.
What are the best dipping sauces for sticky pigs blankets?
While the glaze is fantastic on its own, a good dipping sauce is always welcome! My favorites include extra barbecue sauce, a tangy honey mustard, or even a sweet chili sauce for a little kick. A creamy ranch can also be a nice contrast to the sweet and savory flavors of these bacon wrapped pigs blankets.
How do I get the puff pastry extra crispy with the glaze?
The key is the double bake! We bake the pastry first to get it golden and puffed, then brush on the glaze and bake for a few more minutes. This allows the glaze to caramelize without burning and ensures the pastry stays delightfully flaky. This method is essential for achieving the best sweet and sticky pigs blankets.
Variations of Sticky Pigs Blankets You Can Try
While the classic recipe for sticky pigs blankets is fantastic, I love experimenting with different flavors and methods! These variations offer exciting ways to enjoy your favorite appetizer. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences, making for truly unique sticky piggies wrapped in bacon.
- Teriyaki Twist: Swap the barbecue sauce for teriyaki sauce in the glaze for an Asian-inspired flavor profile. This creates delicious teriyaki sticky pigs blankets with a savory-sweet kick.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of sriracha to the glaze for a little heat. These spicy sticky pigs blankets are perfect for those who love a bit of a burn!
- Air Fryer Method: For an extra crispy finish, try making these in your air fryer! Arrange them in a single layer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, then brush with glaze and air fry for another 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
- Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based cocktail sausages and ensure your puff pastry is vegan. This makes for a wonderful vegetarian sticky pigs blanket appetizer that everyone can enjoy.
Mouthwatering Sticky Pigs Blankets Magic
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sticky Pigs in Blankets are a popular appetizer featuring savory cocktail sausages wrapped in flaky puff pastry and coated in a sweet, caramelized glaze. This recipe offers a delicious and easy-to-make party favorite that can be customized with your choice of sausage.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Cocktail Sausages
- 1 lb Puff Pastry
- 1 Egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup Honey
- 1/4 cup Barbecue Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out puff pastry to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 1-inch wide, 4-inch long strips.
- Wrap each cocktail sausage with a pastry strip, sealing the edge with egg wash. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of the wrapped sausages with egg wash.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and paprika for the glaze.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Remove from oven and brush the glaze over the pigs in blankets.
- Return to the oven for another 5 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Experiment with different sausages like beef or vegetarian options.
- You can make these ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating before baking.
- Serve with additional barbecue sauce for dipping if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg