Pretzel Wrapped Pigs in a Blanket are delicious appetizers made from cocktail-sized sausages encased in strips of pizza dough, boiled, sprinkled with salt, and baked until golden brown. They are perfect when paired with a homemade cheddar cheese sauce for dipping. If you prefer, you can also enjoy the classic pigs in a blanket version.
I adore pigs in a blanket because they are quick to prepare and enjoyable for all ages. These pretzel pigs in a blanket take it up a notch, and I can’t get enough of them! They feature a soft, chewy pretzel exterior that wraps around the small sausages, creating an easy-to-eat finger food that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any event. They are ideal for holiday gatherings, such as Christmas and New Year’s Eve parties. Believe me, they will vanish quickly. And don’t forget the cheese sauce! I’ll also share how to prepare them in an air fryer.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Dough: For convenience, use a tube of store-bought pizza dough. Homemade pizza dough is another option if you prefer.
- Sausages: Use 24 cocktail-sized sausage links, which are smaller than regular sausages. Hot dogs cut into smaller pieces can also be used.
- Baking Soda: This ingredient is added to the boiling water to give the dough its distinct pretzel flavor and texture.
- Egg: Beat an egg to brush over the pretzel pigs in a blanket before baking for a beautiful golden brown finish.
- Dipping Sauce: My cheddar cheese sauce complements this snack perfectly. Alternatively, use store-bought cheese sauce, beer cheese dip, or Dijon mustard.
Air Fryer Pretzel Pigs in a Blanket
During the busy holiday season, utilizing an air fryer can be a lifesaver! This appetizer cooks wonderfully in an air fryer. Follow the instructions up to the boiling stage (including the baking soda and water boil). Instead of baking them in the oven, cook them in batches in the air fryer. Air fry the pretzel pigs for 4-6 minutes at 375°F (190°C), flipping them halfway.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! First, wrap the sausages in the dough. Then, cover the pretzel pigs in a blanket with plastic wrap. Refrigerate them overnight, or for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, bring them to room temperature before boiling and baking.
Can I Freeze Pretzel Pigs in a Blanket?
Yes! You can freeze these either before or after baking. To freeze before boiling and baking, assemble them and place them in the freezer for an hour or two until solid. Store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before bringing to room temperature, boiling in baking soda and water, and baking. To freeze after baking, let them cool to room temperature, then freeze solid before storing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
How to Store Pretzel Pigs in a Blanket
If there are any leftovers (which is unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or air fryer. You can also freeze baked pretzel pigs in a blanket for a couple of months.
Ingredients
- 1 tube (13.8 ounces/ 400 g) pizza dough*
- 24 links cocktail-sized sausages
- 5 cups (1.2 liters) water
- ¼ cup (55 grams) baking soda
- 1 large egg, room temperature, beaten
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- cheese sauce**, for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove the pizza dough from the package and place it on a cutting board. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out into a rectangle with a ¼-inch (0.6 cm) thickness. Using a pizza cutter, cut the rolled-out dough in half lengthwise. Then, cut each rectangle into 12, 1-inch (2.5 cm) strips. You will need a total of 24 strips.
- Place one sausage on each strip of dough and tightly roll it until completely wrapped.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring water to a light boil. Add the baking soda and stir until dissolved.
- Working in batches of 3-4, add the pretzel dogs to the boiling water. Boil for 20-30 seconds, then use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining pretzel dogs.
- Use a pastry brush to brush each one with the beaten egg. Sprinkle each evenly with salt.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown.
- Serve with cheese sauce for dipping.
Enjoy your Pretzel Wrapped Pigs in a Blanket!
