- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: 18–20 minutes
- Servings: 8 (24 mini pigs in a blanket)
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 24 mini smoked sausages (cocktail sausages)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon Everything Bagel seasoning (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Optional Dipping Sauces
- Ketchup
- Yellow mustard
- Honey mustard
- Barbecue sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Cheese sauce
- Spicy mayo
- Buffalo sauce
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Small bowl
- Pastry brush
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Serving platter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Remove the crescent roll dough from the refrigerator.
Unroll it carefully onto a clean cutting board.
Separate the dough along the perforated seams into triangles.
Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut each triangle into three narrow strips.
You should have approximately 24 strips.
Step 2: Wrap the Sausages
Pat the mini sausages dry with a paper towel.
Wrap one strip of dough around each sausage, slightly overlapping the dough as you roll.
Place each wrapped sausage seam-side down.
Continue until all sausages are wrapped.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Egg
- Water
Brush each wrapped sausage lightly with the egg wash.
Sprinkle with Everything Bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or garlic powder if desired.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 5: Air Fry
Arrange the pigs in a blanket in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Leave a little space between each piece to allow the hot air to circulate.
Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through cooking.
The dough should become puffed, flaky, and deep golden brown.
The sausages should be hot throughout with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Cook in batches if necessary.
Step 6: Cool Slightly
Remove the pigs in a blanket from the air fryer using tongs.
Let them cool for 2–3 minutes, as the filling will be very hot.
Step 7: Serve
Arrange on a serving platter.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Enjoy immediately for the crispiest texture.
Tips for Success
Preheat the air fryer for even cooking and crisp pastry.
Pat the sausages dry so the dough adheres better.
Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this prevents even browning.
Brush with egg wash for a shiny, bakery-style finish.
Serve immediately while the pastry is fresh and flaky.
Cheesy Pigs in a Blanket
Place a thin strip of cheddar or mozzarella cheese inside the dough before wrapping the sausage.
Spicy Jalapeño Version
Add a slice of pickled jalapeño with each sausage before rolling.
Garlic Parmesan
Brush the cooked pigs in a blanket with melted garlic butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Pretzel Style
Brush with baking soda solution before cooking and sprinkle with coarse salt for a pretzel-inspired version.
Sweet & Savory
Brush the tops with honey butter after cooking for a delicious sweet-and-salty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket pair perfectly with:
- French fries
- Sweet potato fries
- Potato wedges
- Coleslaw
- Macaroni salad
- Fresh vegetable tray
- Pickles
- Chips
- Onion rings
- Baked beans
- Corn on the cob
- Fruit salad
They’re also an excellent addition to appetizer platters alongside mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, stuffed mushrooms, and spinach dip.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked pigs in a blanket in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating
Reheat in the air fryer at 325°F (163°C) for 3–4 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Avoid microwaving if possible, as the pastry may become soft.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Skipping the egg wash, resulting in a less golden finish.
- Wrapping the dough too loosely, causing it to unravel during cooking.
- Overcooking, which can dry out the sausages.
- Serving immediately from the air fryer without allowing a brief cooling period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular hot dogs instead of cocktail sausages?
Yes. Cut full-size hot dogs into thirds or halves before wrapping them in the crescent dough.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the pigs in a blanket a few hours in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to air fry.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
While some air fryers don’t require preheating, doing so helps achieve a crisp, evenly browned crust.
Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?
Yes. Puff pastry creates a lighter, flakier texture. Cut it into strips and bake according to the same method, adding an extra 1–2 minutes if needed.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes. Use your favorite plant-based mini sausages and follow the recipe as directed.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximately 3 Pigs in a Blanket)
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 690mg
- Potassium: 180mg
- Calcium: 2% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
