Pepperoni Pigs in a Blanket: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

By Olivia

These Pepperoni Pigs in a Blanket are an irresistible, bite-sized treat that combines the classic comfort of pigs in a blanket with the bold flavors of pepperoni. Cocktail franks are wrapped in a slice of pepperoni, followed by crescent roll dough, then baked to a golden, crispy perfection. The pepperoni adds a smoky, savory twist that elevates this simple appetizer to the next level. Perfect for parties, game days, or any time you need a tasty snack!

Quick Benefits

Flavorful Twist: The pepperoni adds an extra layer of flavor to the traditional pigs in a blanket, making them even more savory.
Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can prepare these in under an hour.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for a party or a casual get-together, these little bites are sure to be a hit with guests.
Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste, such as using different types of sausage or adding your favorite seasoning.

Essential Ingredients

To make these delicious Pepperoni Pigs in a Blanket, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 (12 ounce) can ready-to-bake crescent roll dough: The dough forms the base of this dish, creating a flaky, buttery wrap.
48 cocktail franks or mini smoked sausages (about 1 pound): These mini sausages are the heart of the dish, providing that savory bite-sized flavor.
48 thin slices of pepperoni (about 4 ounces): The pepperoni adds a smoky, spicy layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the sausages.
2 tablespoons melted butter: Brushed on top before baking, this butter helps the pigs in a blanket get beautifully golden and crispy.
1 tablespoon sesame seeds: For a crunchy finish and extra flavor on top of the dough.

Preparation Steps

Prep the Dough: Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Separate the crescent roll dough into 8 triangles and place them on the prepared sheet pan. Pop the pan in the freezer for about 10 minutes to firm up the dough. This will make it easier to cut and work with.
Cut the Dough: Take each dough triangle and cut it into three strips, approximately 1 inch wide, using a pizza cutter or sharp knife. Then, cut each strip into about 2-inch lengths. You should be able to get 6 pieces from each triangle of dough.
Prepare the Pigs in a Blanket: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Take a cocktail frank and wrap it in a slice of pepperoni. Place it at one end of a dough strip and roll it up, sealing the seam at the bottom. Repeat this process with the remaining sausages, pepperoni, and dough strips.
Bake: Arrange the wrapped pigs in a blanket on the parchment-lined baking sheet in a 6×8 pattern, leaving a little space between them. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature with mustard or a mustard sauce for dipping. To make a quick mustard sauce, mix equal parts mayonnaise and mustard.

Health Benefits

While these Pepperoni Pigs in a Blanket are a delicious treat, they are more indulgent than nutritious. However, here are a few things to consider:

Protein: The cocktail franks provide protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Calcium: The crescent dough and sesame seeds provide a small amount of calcium, supporting bone health.
Iron: The pepperoni and sausages also provide a small amount of iron, which is necessary for red blood cell production and oxygen transport.

As these are more of an indulgent snack, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation.

Serving Suggestions

With Mustard: Serve with mustard or a homemade mustard sauce (mixing mayonnaise and mustard) for a tangy contrast to the rich, savory flavor.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of sauces such as ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or a spicy mustard dip for extra flavor.
Side Dish: These make an excellent appetizer or finger food at parties, alongside a fresh salad or vegetable platter to balance out the richness.
Game Day Treat: These are perfect for a snack while watching sports, as they’re easy to eat with one hand while you cheer on your team!

Creative Variations

Spicy Version: Add a slice of jalapeño pepper to each pig in a blanket for a spicy kick.
Cheese Stuffed: Before wrapping the sausages in pepperoni, add a small cube of cheese for a melty surprise inside.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the cocktail franks with veggie sausages or even small pieces of tofu for a vegetarian twist on this classic.
Different Dough: Use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough for a flakier, more decadent version.

Storage Tips

Leftovers: Store any leftover pigs in a blanket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to bring back their crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked pigs in a blanket. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze them until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, bake directly from the freezer at 425°F for 25 to 30 minutes.

Pro Tips

Chill the Dough: If the dough gets too soft while you’re cutting it, pop it back in the freezer for a few minutes to make it easier to handle.
Even Cooking: Arrange the pigs in a blanket in a grid pattern on the baking sheet so they cook evenly and get that perfect golden brown color.
Extra Crispy: For an extra crispy finish, brush the dough with more butter just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pigs in a blanket ahead of time and freeze them. When ready to serve, bake them directly from the freezer.

2. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute the cocktail franks with other mini sausages or even vegetarian options like veggie dogs.

3. Can I make these without pepperoni?
Yes, if you prefer a milder version, you can skip the pepperoni and wrap the sausages just in the crescent dough. You could also try wrapping them in bacon for a different flavor.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to retain their crispiness.

These Pepperoni Pigs in a Blanket are a simple yet delicious appetizer that will wow your guests at any party or gathering. With their crispy, savory exterior and flavorful filling, they’re sure to be a favorite snack for any occasion!