Pigs In A Blanket Recipe And Fun Variations
Pigs in a blanket, a classic party favorite that never fails to impress. These bite-sized treats are easy to make, fun to eat, and can be customized to suit any taste or occasion. In this article, we'll explore the basic recipe for pigs in a blanket, as well as some fun variations to take your snack game to the next level.
What are Pigs in a Blanket?
For the uninitiated, pigs in a blanket are essentially mini hot dogs wrapped in croissant or puff pastry dough. The result is a flaky, buttery crust giving way to a savory, meaty center. It's a match made in heaven, and one that's sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Basic Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
Here's a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 package of mini hot dogs
- 1 package of croissant or puff pastry dough, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pastry dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
- Cut the dough into rectangles, about 4 inches wide and 6 inches long.
- Place a mini hot dog in the center of each rectangle.
- Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg and fold the dough over the hot dog, pressing the edges to seal.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges and create a decorative border.
- Place the pigs in a blanket on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
- Brush the tops with the egg wash and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Fun Variations
Now that you've mastered the basic recipe, it's time to get creative! Here are some fun variations to try:
- Cheesy Pigs in a Blanket: Sprinkle shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, on top of the hot dog before wrapping it in pastry.
- Bacon-Wrapped Pigs in a Blanket: Wrap a piece of bacon around the hot dog before wrapping it in pastry.
- Chili Cheese Pigs in a Blanket: Top the hot dog with a spoonful of chili and shredded cheese before wrapping it in pastry.
- Pigs in a Blanket with Caramelized Onions: Top the hot dog with caramelized onions and a sprinkle of thyme before wrapping it in pastry.
- Pigs in a Blanket with Jalapeños: Add a slice of jalapeño pepper to the hot dog before wrapping it in pastry.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best pigs in a blanket ever:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, flavorful hot dogs and high-quality pastry dough will make all the difference in the world.
- Don't overwork the dough: Keep the pastry dough chilled and handle it gently to prevent it from becoming tough and dense.
- Use a variety of hot dogs: Experiment with different types of hot dogs, such as chorizo or bratwurst, for a unique flavor profile.
- Add some spice: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes on top of the hot dog for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Pigs in a blanket are a delicious and easy-to-make snack that's perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick bite. With these fun variations and tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming a pigs in a blanket master. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the ooohs and ahhhs from your friends and family!
What type of pastry dough is best for pigs in a blanket?
+Croissant or puff pastry dough is best for pigs in a blanket. These types of dough are flaky and buttery, and will give your pigs in a blanket a delicious, tender crust.
Can I use different types of hot dogs for pigs in a blanket?
+Absolutely! Experiment with different types of hot dogs, such as chorizo or bratwurst, for a unique flavor profile.
How do I prevent the pastry dough from becoming tough and dense?
+Keep the pastry dough chilled and handle it gently to prevent it from becoming tough and dense.