Take a classic party favorite and give it a modern twist with Mini Everything Bagel Pigs in a Blanket. These bite-sized snacks are wrapped in flaky crescent dough, sprinkled with everything bagel seasoning, and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for game days, potlucks, or quick snacks, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dig into why these tasty treats are so popular and how you can whip them up in no time.
1. Why Mini Everything Bagel Pigs in a Blanket Are a Hit
- Classic Meets Trendy: Combines the nostalgia of pigs in a blanket with the popular flavor of everything bagels.
- Bite-Sized Fun: Perfect for parties, they’re easy to serve and eat.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this a stress-free recipe.
- Customizable: Endless options for fillings, seasonings, and dips.
2. Ingredients for Mini Everything Bagel Pigs in a Blanket
For the Pigs in a Blanket:
- 1 can refrigerated crescent dough
- 24 mini hot dogs or cocktail sausages
For the Everything Bagel Topping:
- 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Optional Dips:
- Honey mustard
- Cream cheese dip
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy ketchup
3. Step-by-Step Preparation
Preparing the Dough:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the Dough:
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles along the perforated lines.
- Cut each triangle into smaller strips to fit the mini hot dogs.
Assembling the Pigs in a Blanket:
- Wrap the Sausages:
- Place a mini hot dog at the wide end of a dough strip. Roll it up tightly, sealing the ends.
- Apply the Egg Wash:
- Brush each wrapped hot dog with beaten egg to help the seasoning stick.
Adding the Everything Bagel Topping:
- Sprinkle the Seasoning:
- Generously sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over each pig in a blanket.
Baking:
- Bake to Perfection:
- Arrange the wrapped sausages on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
4. Serving Suggestions
Mini Everything Bagel Pigs in a Blanket are best enjoyed warm and paired with a variety of dipping sauces:
- Classic Options: Honey mustard, ranch dressing, or spicy ketchup.
- Bagel-Inspired: Whipped cream cheese with scallions or smoked salmon spread.
- Bold Flavors: Sriracha mayo or chipotle aioli for a spicy kick.
5. Variations and Customizations
- Cheesy Twist: Add a small slice of cheddar or mozzarella inside the crescent dough before wrapping.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace mini hot dogs with veggie sausages or roasted carrot strips.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent dough for a celiac-friendly version.
- Sweet and Savory: Brush the top with honey before sprinkling on the seasoning for a hint of sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Mix red pepper flakes into the everything bagel seasoning for added heat.
6. Tips for Perfect Mini Everything Bagel Pigs in a Blanket
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid over-stuffing the dough to prevent tearing during baking.
- Seal Tightly: Pinch the seams of the dough to ensure it stays wrapped during baking.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too soft to work with, chill it for 5-10 minutes.
- Keep Even Spacing: Arrange the wrapped sausages with some space between them to allow even baking.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the pigs in a blanket ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
7. Why Make Them at Home?
- Budget-Friendly: Homemade pigs in a blanket cost far less than store-bought appetizers.
- Customizable: Tailor the flavors and fillings to suit your taste.
- Fresh and Warm: Serve them straight from the oven for maximum deliciousness.
- Fun Activity: A great recipe to make with kids or friends for a fun cooking session.
8. What Makes Everything Bagel Seasoning So Special?
Everything bagel seasoning is a blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. This seasoning adds a savory, nutty crunch to anything it touches and pairs perfectly with the buttery crescent dough and savory sausage in this recipe.
FAQs
1. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?
Yes! Puff pastry creates a flakier texture and works just as well for wrapping the mini hot dogs.
2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
3. Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
4. How can I make homemade everything bagel seasoning?
Mix equal parts sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and salt. Adjust ratios to taste.
5. Are these good for meal prep?
Yes, assemble them ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve. They’re great for parties or snacks on the go.
6. Can I make a larger version?
Use regular hot dogs and larger strips of crescent dough for a full-sized pig in a blanket. Slice into smaller pieces after baking.
7. Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze assembled but unbaked pigs in a blanket. Bake from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
8. What can I use as a vegetarian alternative?
Swap the mini hot dogs with veggie sausages, roasted carrots, or seasoned tofu strips.
9. How do I ensure even baking?
Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
10. Can I add cheese on top instead of inside?
Yes, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the egg wash before adding the seasoning for a cheesy crust.