Pigs in a blanket are a classic appetizer or snack featuring juicy mini sausages wrapped in soft dough. This gluten free version uses a simple, tender dough that bakes up golden and flaky, making it perfect for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether for parties, game day, or a quick bite, these gluten free pigs in a blanket are easy to make and delightfully satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups gluten free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum included)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- ¾ cup milk (dairy or unsweetened almond milk)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 24 mini cocktail sausages (check gluten free labeling)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, combine the milk, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Let it sit for 2 minutes to curdle slightly, creating a buttermilk substitute.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into 24 strips, roughly ½ inch wide and 3 inches long, suitable for wrapping around the mini sausages.
- Wrap each mini sausage with one strip of dough, overlapping slightly to seal. Place each wrapped sausage seam side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Brush the tops of each pig in a blanket with the beaten egg to give a golden finish. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if using.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the dough is puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Flour blend choice: Use a gluten free all-purpose blend that contains xanthan gum or guar gum for best texture. If your blend lacks it, add ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum to help bind the dough.
- Milk alternatives: Dairy-free milks like almond, oat, or soy work well. Avoid sweetened versions to keep the dough balanced.
- Butter temperature: Keep the butter cold until cutting it into the dough to ensure flakiness. You can also chill the dough briefly before rolling if it becomes too sticky.
- Storage: Store leftover pigs in a blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these gluten free pigs in a blanket warm with classic condiments like mustard, ketchup, or a tangy barbecue sauce. They also pair well with a creamy cheese dip or a spicy sriracha mayo. For party platters, add some pickles, olives, and fresh veggie sticks on the side to balance the richness. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for game days, kids’ parties, or casual get-togethers.
Variations
For a twist on the traditional, try using different types of sausages such as chicken apple, spicy chorizo, or even vegetarian sausages that are gluten free. You can also enhance the dough by adding herbs like dried rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch. Another variation is to sprinkle shredded cheese inside the dough before wrapping the sausage for a gooey surprise. For a sweeter option, use breakfast sausages and serve with maple syrup on the side.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover pigs in a blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes rather than using a microwave, which can make the dough soggy. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked wrapped sausages on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding about 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular hot dogs instead of mini sausages?
Yes, you can slice regular hot dogs into smaller pieces and wrap them with the dough. Just adjust the dough strip size accordingly and be mindful that larger pieces may need slightly longer baking.
Is xanthan gum necessary in gluten free dough?
Xanthan gum or another binder like guar gum is important in gluten free baking to give structure and elasticity. If your flour blend already contains it, no need to add more. Without it, the dough may be crumbly and harder to work with.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before rolling and assembling to make it easier to handle.
Are these suitable for people with dairy allergies?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil and use a plant-based milk to make this recipe dairy free as well as gluten free. The texture will remain tender and delicious.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking?
Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin with gluten free flour. If the dough gets sticky, chill it for 10-15 minutes before continuing. Also, cold butter helps reduce stickiness and improves flakiness.
Can I add cheese inside the pigs in a blanket?
Absolutely! Placing a thin strip or small cube of cheese inside with the sausage creates a melty, flavorful surprise. Just be sure to seal the dough edges well to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.
What’s the best way to make these crispier?
Brushing the dough with an egg wash before baking helps achieve a golden, crisp exterior. Also, baking on parchment with space between each piece allows hot air to circulate, creating a flakier crust.
Are these safe for freezing?
Yes, freezing unbaked wrapped pigs in a blanket is recommended for meal prep. Freeze on a tray first to prevent sticking, then store in airtight freezer bags. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
With these tips and variations, you can confidently make delicious gluten free pigs in a blanket that everyone will enjoy, whether for a quick snack or festive occasion.
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