Pigs in a Blanket Wreath Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 (8 ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 ounces Cheddar cheese, cut into 1/4-inch thin strips
• 1 (12 ounce) package mini sausages, such as Lil' Smokies
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 16 triangles. Spread each triangle evenly with Dijon mustard.

Step 3: Using a pizza cutter or knife, make 2 cuts in each triangle to divide it into 3 smaller triangles.

Step 4: Place 1 strip of Cheddar cheese and 1 mini sausage at the base of each smaller triangle. Roll each triangle up tightly, encasing the cheese and sausage inside.

Step 5: Arrange about 20 of the rolled sausages on the baking sheet in a large circular shape, with the sausages radiating from the center. The sides of each roll should touch each other.

Step 6: Continue by arranging the remaining rolled sausages inside the first circle, slightly overlapping them to form a double-layer ring.

Step 7: Brush the top of the rolls lightly with the beaten egg and sprinkle evenly with everything bagel seasoning.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 24 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 9: While the rolls are baking, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, stone ground mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 10: Once the crescent roll sausage ring is baked, remove from the oven. Transfer the ring to a serving platter and place a small bowl of the dipping sauce in the center of the ring.

Step 11: Garnish with rosemary sprigs, if desired, to create a festive, wreath-like appearance.

Step 12: Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	164
Total Fat	13g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	38mg
Sodium	445mg
Total Carbohydrate	8g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	4g
Calcium	57mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	71mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Pigs in a Blanket Wreath

Pigs in a Blanket have long been a staple of American and European comfort food, tracing their origins back to 19th-century England, where small sausages were wrapped in pastry for easy baking. The idea spread across the Atlantic, evolving in the United States into bite-sized appetizers using hot dogs or cocktail sausages wrapped in crescent roll dough. The wreath variation, which transforms these classic treats into a visually striking circular centerpiece, likely emerged in recent decades as holiday hosts sought festive alternatives to traditional hors d'oeuvres.

Regional Characteristics

While pigs in a blanket are popular nationwide, regional touches make them unique. In the Midwest and Southern U.S., the sausages are often accompanied by cheese or a mustard glaze. In contrast, Northeastern versions sometimes feature puff pastry or incorporate maple syrup in the dipping sauce. The wreath style is particularly associated with holiday gatherings in suburban and urban homes, where presentation is as important as taste.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike regular pigs in a blanket, which are typically served as individual pieces, the wreath form arranges the rolls in a layered circular pattern, creating a festive display. Additionally, the inclusion of a dipping sauce in the center, often a tangy combination of mustard, honey, and mayonnaise, sets it apart from simpler versions. While other sausage pastries like kolaches or sausage rolls share similar ingredients, the wreath emphasizes visual appeal and communal sharing, making it both a snack and a centerpiece.

Where Its Usually Served

This dish is most often seen at holiday parties, family gatherings, or sports-watching events. Its festive presentation makes it a popular choice for Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year celebrations. The bite-sized portions and warm dipping sauce ensure that it appeals to both children and adults alike. Additionally, it has become a common item at potlucks and appetizer spreads, where presentation and ease of serving are valued.

Interesting Facts

The pigs in a blanket wreath not only delights with flavor but also reflects culinary creativity in presentation. The circular shape symbolizes togetherness and celebration, making it particularly popular during winter holidays. Interestingly, while the basic ingredients are simplesausage, crescent dough, and cheesethe versatility allows for gourmet variations, including the use of flavored cheeses, specialty sausages, or unique seasoning blends. Fun fact: arranging the rolls in concentric rings is said to help the pastries bake evenly while creating an eye-catching centerpiece that disappears quickly at parties!

FAQ about Pigs in a Blanket Wreath Recipe

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