Delicious Morning Blanket Sausages

This hearty breakfast twist on a classic snack brings together savory breakfast sausages, flaky crescent rolls, and melty cheese for a morning delight that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. It's my go-to recipe for weekend family brunches when I want something comforting yet impressive with minimal effort.

I first made these breakfast pigs in a blanket when hosting an impromptu brunch for unexpected weekend guests. The combination of maple and Dijon was such a hit that my nephew now requests them every time he visits, proclaiming them "the best breakfast ever invented."

Ingredients

• Crescent roll dough: Provides the perfect flaky blanket and saves significant preparation time
• Breakfast sausages: Work best when fully cooked variety is chosen for faster baking
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Look for a sharp cheddar for maximum flavor impact
• Dijon mustard: Adds tangy depth that balances the sweetness perfectly
• Maple syrup: Use pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup for authentic flavor
• Egg wash: Creates that beautiful golden brown exterior
• Everything bagel seasoning: Adds incredible texture and savory notes to each bite
• Fresh herbs: Brighten the final presentation and add a pop of color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven:

Set oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper. This temperature creates the perfect environment for the dough to rise while allowing the cheese to melt without burning. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Prepare the Dough:

Carefully unroll the crescent dough on a lightly floured surface. Take your time pressing the perforated seams together until you have a solid sheet. If the dough tears, simply pinch it back together. This creates a uniform base that will hold your fillings securely.

Cut into Strips:

Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the prepared dough into strips approximately 1 inch wide and 4 to 5 inches long. Uniform strips ensure even cooking and a consistent look. I find that slightly wider strips work better for breakfast sausages compared to cocktail wieners.

Create the Flavor Glaze:

In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and maple syrup until completely incorporated. This magical combination creates the signature flavor profile that elevates this breakfast treat beyond ordinary pigs in a blanket. The tanginess of the mustard cuts through the sweetness of the maple for perfect balance.

Assemble Your Creations:

Position a sausage at one end of each dough strip. Sprinkle about a tablespoon of shredded cheese over each sausage, being careful not to overfill. Brush the dough lightly with the mustard maple mixture, then roll up the sausage in the dough, starting from the sausage end and rolling toward the opposite end. Ensure the seam is on the bottom to prevent unraveling during baking.

Apply Finishing Touches:

Arrange each wrapped sausage on your prepared baking sheet with about an inch of space between them. Brush generously with beaten egg to ensure a glossy, golden finish. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, which adds incredible flavor and visual appeal. The egg wash helps the seasoning adhere properly.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You want the dough to be completely puffed and an even golden brown color throughout. Keep an eye on them after the 10 minute mark as ovens can vary. The kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma as they bake.

Serve with Style:

Allow to cool for 2 to 3 minutes before transferring to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Arrange small bowls of extra maple syrup and Dijon mustard alongside for dipping options that will please everyone at the table.

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The maple Dijon glaze is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered this combination years ago at a Vermont bed and breakfast, where the innkeeper shared that the trick is using real maple syrup rather than the imitation varieties. The depth of flavor makes these breakfast bites absolutely irresistible.

Make Ahead Options

These breakfast pigs in a blanket can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated unbaked. Simply cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator while the oven preheats, then brush with egg wash and add seasonings just before baking. You may need to add 2 to 3 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.

Sausage Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Traditional pork breakfast sausages offer a classic flavor profile, but turkey or chicken sausages provide a lighter option. For vegetarian guests, plant based sausages work beautifully in this recipe. For a spicy kick, try chorizo style breakfast links. Whatever variety you choose, ensure they are fully cooked before wrapping them in dough.

Serving Suggestions

Create a complete breakfast spread by serving these alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For a brunch gathering, pair with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. They also make an excellent addition to a breakfast buffet alongside mini quiches and a yogurt parfait station.

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These breakfast pigs in a blanket are sure to become a go-to for your family breakfast or brunch gatherings. Deliciously simple yet irresistibly impressive!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these breakfast pigs in a blanket ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them the night before and refrigerate covered with plastic wrap. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, apply the egg wash, add toppings, and bake. You may need to add 2-3 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftover pigs in a blanket?

For the best texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving works in a pinch (30-45 seconds), but the pastry won't be as crisp. Avoid overheating to prevent the sausages from becoming tough.

→ Can I use different types of sausages for this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any breakfast sausages you prefer - traditional pork, turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives all work well. Just ensure they're fully cooked when the pastry is golden brown (adjust cooking time if using raw sausages).

→ What can I serve alongside these breakfast pigs in a blanket?

These make a perfect component of a breakfast spread alongside scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, yogurt, or a green salad. For a brunch gathering, pair with mimosas or a breakfast casserole. Individual serving cups of maple syrup or flavored Dijon mustard make great dipping options.

→ How can I make this recipe more child-friendly?

Kids typically love this dish as is! For picky eaters, you can omit the Dijon mustard and use only maple syrup in the glaze. Using mini sausages creates bite-sized portions perfect for small hands. Let children help with rolling the dough for a fun cooking activity.

→ What alternatives to crescent roll dough can I use?

Puff pastry makes an excellent substitute for a more buttery, flakier texture. You can also try pizza dough (though it's less sweet) or even homemade biscuit dough rolled thin. For a whole grain option, look for whole wheat crescent rolls at specialty grocery stores.