Looking for a fun and satisfying breakfast idea that everyone in the family will love? Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket combine the comfort of warm, flaky pastry with the savory goodness of sausages, making them a perfect choice for both weekday breakfasts and leisurely weekend brunches. This delightful twist on the classic pigs in a blanket is easy to prepare, incredibly delicious, and sure to start your day off right. Here’s how you can whip up this tasty breakfast treat in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 package of breakfast sausage links (about 12 links)
- 1 can (8 oz) of refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour (for dusting)
- Optional: cheese slices
- Optional: eggs (if you prefer a scrambled egg filling)
- Condiments for serving: ketchup, mustard, or maple syrup
Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Oven
Preparation Steps:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures that the oven is hot enough to bake the crescent rolls to golden perfection.
- Prepare the Sausage Links: While the oven is warming, cook the breakfast sausage links according to the package instructions. Typically, this will involve pan-frying them until they are browned and cooked through. Once done, set them aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Dough: Unroll the can of crescent roll dough onto a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. If you like, you can press the seams together and then use a rolling pin to even out the dough into a single large rectangle. Cut the dough into thin strips wide enough to wrap around the sausages completely.
- Add Cheese and Egg (Optional): If you’re using cheese, place a small piece on each strip of dough. If you want to add scrambled eggs, cook the eggs in a skillet until they are just set, and add a spoonful to the dough before placing the sausage on top.
- Assemble the Pigs in a Blanket: Wrap each sausage link in a strip of dough with the cheese and optional scrambled egg enclosed. Make sure the ends overlap slightly and press them together to seal.
- Bake: Place the wrapped sausages on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and puffed up.
- Serving: Serve your Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket warm from the oven with your choice of dipping sauces like ketchup, mustard, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and savory twist.
Why Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket?
Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket are not just delicious; they are also incredibly versatile and portable, making them a great option for breakfast on-the-go. Kids love them for their fun size and tasty flavor, while adults appreciate the quick preparation and satisfying taste. Whether it’s a special occasion or a regular morning, these breakfast treats are sure to impress.
Nutritional Considerations:
While Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket are undoubtedly a tasty treat, those watching their diet may want to consider modifications such as using low-fat sausage options, integrating whole wheat dough, or adding more vegetables like spinach or tomatoes for additional nutrients.
Conclusion:
Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket are a fantastic way to spice up your morning routine. They are easy to make, fun to eat, and can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Give this recipe a try next time you’re looking for a breakfast that is both simple and satisfying!
Serving and Storage Tips for Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket
Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket are not only delicious but also a convenient option for both busy mornings and leisurely brunches. Here are some helpful tips on how to best serve and store these tasty treats to ensure they remain as delightful as when they first come out of the oven.
Serving Tips:
- Serve Warm: These treats are best enjoyed warm. If they have cooled down, pop them back in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes or until they’re heated through.
- Pair with Sides: Complement your Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket with other breakfast staples to make a complete meal. Consider fresh fruit, yogurt, or a side of scrambled eggs. A refreshing glass of orange juice or a hot cup of coffee also makes a great addition.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavors. Traditional choices include ketchup and mustard, but you can get creative with options like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a creamy cheese dip.
- Presentation: For a fun and enticing presentation, arrange them on a platter with the dipping sauces in the center. Garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can add a touch of color and freshness.
Storage Tips:
- Cool Before Storing: Allow the Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket to cool completely before storing them to prevent condensation and sogginess.
- Refrigerate Properly: Place the cooled pigs in a blanket in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, layer them between sheets of parchment paper to keep them from sticking together.
- Freezing for Longer Storage: For longer storage, freeze them. Wrap each pig in a blanket individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. This method is ideal for meal prep or having a quick breakfast option on hand.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or a toaster oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until they are warmed throughout. This helps to maintain their texture better than microwaving, which can make the pastry soggy.
- Microwave Instructions: If you’re in a rush, you can microwave them on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. However, this might not result in a crispy pastry.
By following these serving and storage tips, your Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket will maintain their savory flavor and delightful texture, making your breakfasts both enjoyable and hassle-free. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or planning a festive brunch, these tips ensure that Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket are always tasty and ready to impress.
FAQ 1: What type of sausages can I use for Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket?
Answer: You can use any type of breakfast sausage for this recipe, whether they are pork, turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian alternative. Pre-cooked sausages are easiest since they just need to be heated through, but you can also use raw sausages—just make sure to fully cook them before wrapping in the crescent dough.
FAQ 2: Can I make Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, you can prepare Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket ahead of time. You can either refrigerate them overnight and bake them in the morning or bake them fully and reheat when needed. If you choose to prepare and refrigerate the uncooked wrapped sausages, make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to keep the dough from drying out.
FAQ 3: Are there any alternatives to crescent roll dough for wrapping?
Answer: Absolutely! If you don’t have crescent roll dough, you can use other types of dough such as puff pastry, biscuit dough, or even homemade pastry dough. Each type of dough will give a slightly different texture and flavor but will be delicious nonetheless.
FAQ 4: How can I make Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket healthier?
Answer: To make a healthier version of Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket, consider using low-fat or plant-based sausages to reduce calorie and fat content. You can also swap the traditional crescent roll dough for whole wheat or gluten-free options. Adding ingredients like spinach, tomatoes, or peppers can increase the nutritional value and add flavor as well.