Growing up, pigs in blankets were always a favorite snack in our home. The combination of flaky dough and savory sausage was unbeatable. Now, as an adult, I still crave those flavors but prefer a healthier twist. That’s why I’m excited to share this easy pigs in blankets air fryer recipe, which delivers the same delicious taste with less oil.
This recipe uses just two main ingredients and a few simple steps. The air fryer makes the dough golden-brown and encases the juicy little smokies perfectly. It’s perfect for parties, quick snacks, or just a taste of childhood.
What Are Pigs in Blankets and Their Origins
Pigs in blankets are a favorite American appetizer, loved at parties and gatherings. They are small sausages, called “little smokies,” wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. The air fryer version makes this treat quick and easy, with a crispy, golden-brown outside.
The dish’s roots are in the Netherlands, where it was called “sausage bread.” It came to the United States and became the pigs in blankets we love today. The air fryer version is now a hit, making it easy to enjoy airfryer party food at home.
“Pigs in blankets are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion, from game day to holiday celebrations. The combination of tender sausage and flaky dough is simply irresistible.”
Want to make air fried mini hot dogs at home? It’s a great idea for any party or just a cozy snack. Next, we’ll cover the key ingredients, tools, and steps to make perfect pigs in blankets in your air fryer.
Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets
Making tasty quick air fryer snacks like pigs in blankets is easy. You’ll need crescent roll dough and bite-sized smoked sausages or cocktail wieners. For a healthier choice, use turkey sausages. One can of crescent rolls makes about 16 pigs in blankets, great for sharing.
Choosing the Right Crescent Rolls
Choose high-quality crescent roll dough for the best results. It should bake up golden and flaky. Stay away from doughs with too much sodium or preservatives to keep your pigs in blankets tasting good.
Selecting the Perfect Little Smokies
Miniature cocktail wieners or “little smokies” are the best sausages to use. They fit perfectly in the crescent roll dough. Pick a brand that fits your diet, whether it’s pork, beef, or turkey.
Optional Seasonings and Toppings
You can make the classic pigs in blankets recipe even better. Try brushing the sausages with melted butter and sprinkling with bagel seasoning or other spices. This lets you add your own special touch to this easy air fryer recipe.
Required Kitchen Equipment
To make tasty air fryer puff pastry bites, you need some key tools. First, you must have an air fryer. The Cosori 5.8 quart air fryer is great for its big size and even cooking.
Then, use parchment paper in your air fryer basket. It stops food from sticking and makes cleaning up easier. A bit of olive oil cooking spray will also help get your air fryer puff pastry bites golden.
For cutting the dough, a pizza cutter or sharp knife is best. And remember, a cutting board is essential for prep work.
“The right tools can make all the difference in creating delicious air fryer puff pastry bites.”
With these tools ready, you’re set to make delicious air fryer puff pastry bites. They’ll surely wow your guests and family.
Preparing Your Air Fryer for Perfect Results
To make crispy airfryer appetizers like pigs in blankets, you need to prep your air fryer right. First, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This temperature helps your food cook evenly and get that golden-brown look.
Basket Preparation Tips
Then, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray. This prevents the dough from sticking. It also makes sure your pigs in blankets come out easily.
Using Parchment Paper Effectively
For the best results, put a sheet of parchment paper in the basket. Make sure it’s a bit bigger than your sausages. The parchment catches any dough that might spill over. It also lets air circulate around your food.
By following these steps, you’ll get perfectly cooked, crispy airfryer appetizers every time. With the right temperature, basket care, and parchment paper, you’re on your way to golden brown perfection.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pigs in Blankets Air Fryer Style
Making tasty easy air fryer recipes like air fryer sausage rolls is easy. Begin by unrolling crescent dough and cutting each triangle in half. Pat your sausages dry with paper towels to help the dough stick.
Wrap each sausage with a dough strip, spiraling from one end to the other. This keeps the dough in place while cooking. Place the wrapped sausages in the air fryer basket, leaving space for air to circulate.
“Pigs in blankets take a total of 20 minutes to air fry from raw, involving 10 minutes on one side, turning them over, and then cooking for a further 10 minutes on the other side.”
Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) before adding the sausages. This ensures a golden-brown and crispy finish. Watch your pigs in blankets, flipping them halfway for even browning.
With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can make delicious air fryer sausage rolls at home. This quick and easy easy air fryer recipes is a hit with everyone.
Cooking Time and Temperature Guidelines
Timing is crucial for air frying pigs in blankets to get that perfect golden-brown finish. The ideal cooking temperature is 350°F (175°C). Start by air frying the wrapped sausages for 3-4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re beautifully browned.
First Batch Timing
For the first batch of quick air fryer snacks, set the timer for 3-4 minutes. Watch them closely as they cook, flipping the pigs in blankets halfway through. This ensures even browning on all sides. The first batch preheats your air fryer, making future batches cook faster.
Adjustments for Multiple Batches
If you’re air frying multiple batches, you might need to adjust the cooking time. The preheated air fryer cooks the pigs in blankets more efficiently. You might only need 2-3 minutes per side for the next batches. Keep an eye on them and adjust as needed for the perfect crispiness.
Remember, cooking times can vary. This depends on your air fryer model and the size of the sausages. Adjust the time to ensure your pigs in blankets are cooked through and golden brown.
Best Dipping Sauces and Serving Suggestions
Pigs in blankets are a classic airfryer party food that can be elevated with the right dipping sauces and serving suggestions. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or a casual family meal, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
For the perfect airfryer party food, consider serving your pigs in blankets air fryer with a variety of dipping sauces. Classic options like ketchup, mustard, and honey mustard are always crowd-pleasers. For those seeking a bit more flavor, try pairing your pigs in blankets with barbecue sauce, cheese sauce, or a tangy ranch dressing.
“Pigs in a blanket are the ultimate airfryer party food – they’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit with guests.”
When it comes to serving, keep these delicious bites warm and fresh by serving them immediately after cooking. They make a great appetizer or snack, perfect for game day, family gatherings, or any casual celebration. Consider arranging them on a platter with the various dipping sauces for a visually appealing presentation.
Whether you prefer classic flavors or something a little more adventurous, the key to delicious pigs in blankets air fryer is finding the right balance of taste and texture. With the right dipping sauces and serving suggestions, your airfryer party food is sure to be a hit with everyone.
Tips for Achieving Golden Brown Perfection
To get your air fryer Pigs in Blankets perfectly crispy, follow some key tips. First, don’t overlap the sausages in dough. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking. This prevents undercooked dough or soggy spots.
Flipping the Pigs in Blankets halfway through cooking is crucial. It ensures an evenly browned exterior. For an extra crispy finish, lightly spray the tops with cooking spray before air frying. Make sure to pat the sausages dry before wrapping them in dough. This helps prevent excess moisture that can make the result less crisp.
Preventing Undercooked Dough
Undercooked dough is a common problem with air fryer Pigs in Blankets. To avoid this, stick to the recommended cooking time and temperature. If the dough still seems undercooked, slightly increase the temperature for the last few minutes.
Ensuring Even Cooking
Proper basket arrangement and flipping halfway through are key for even cooking. This ensures your air fryer Pigs in Blankets are golden brown on all sides. With these tips, you’ll serve air fryer Pigs in Blankets that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
