Name: German Style Pigs in a Blanket
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 pieces fully cooked bratwurst; 1 box puff pastry; 1/3 cup spicy or dijon mustard; 1 can sauerkraut; 1 large egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water; poppy seeds or caraway seeds

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Every time I think about gatherings with family and friends, I can’t help but reminisce about how the aroma of freshly baked German Style Pigs in a Blanket used to fill the air. These delicious bites are not just food; they are a talk of joy and laughter, often bringing everyone together around the table. I remember the first time I made them for a casual get-together. There was laughter, chatter, and of course, everyone couldn’t wait to sink their teeth into these delightful treats! The combination of the flaky pastry with savory filling makes them irresistible. Whether it’s game day, a birthday party, or just a cozy night in, I find that the German Style Pigs in a Blanket always steal the show. They’re simple to prepare and even easier to devour, making them a favorite for all occasions. The crunch of the pastry combined with the rich flavors inside creates a mouth-watering experience that I believe everyone should enjoy.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This German Style Pigs in a Blanket Is So Good

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the main reasons I absolutely love German Style Pigs in a Blanket is their versatility. They fit perfectly as an appetizer at parties or can serve as a delightful snack during movie nights. No matter the event, these little bundles of joy are a hit!

Easy to Make

Making German Style Pigs in a Blanket is straightforward. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. This simplicity means that even those who are new to cooking can impress their guests with these delicious bites.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor

The flavor combination of the seasoned filling and the flaky pastry is simply divine. Every bite offers a perfect mix of textures and tastes that everyone loves. Plus, they’re easy to customize if you want to play around with different fillings!

Great for Meal Prep

These delightful treats are perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare them ahead of time and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve. This makes hosting so much easier!

Fun to Dip

What’s better than a tasty snack? A tasty snack that you can dip! Pair them with your favorite mustard or dipping sauce for an added kick of flavor. It’s a fun way to enjoy them!

Recipe Ingredients for German Style Pigs in a Blanket

When it comes to creating the perfect German Style Pigs in a Blanket, the ingredients are key. Each component plays a vital role in building the overall flavor and texture. The combination of the flaky pastry, savory filling, and zesty mustard makes every bite unforgettable.

6 fully cooked bratwurst – These provide a hearty center for each pig in a blanket, delivering a savory flavor.
1 box puff pastry – The flaky layers of puff pastry wrap around the filling, adding a beautiful texture and richness.
1/3 cup spicy or dijon mustard – This adds a delightful tang and heat, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
1 can sauerkraut, drained well – This brings a crisp texture and a subtle acidity that balances the dish.
1 large egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water – This serves as an egg wash, giving the pastry a beautiful golden color when baked.
Poppy seeds or caraway seeds – A sprinkle of these seeds adds a touch of visual appeal as well as a subtle flavor.

How to Cook German Style Pigs in a Blanket

Cooking German Style Pigs in a Blanket is not only fun but also quite rewarding. You’ll see your hard work transform into these delicious little bundles in no time! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making them perfectly.

First, cut the bratwurst in half lengthwise and then cut each piece into thirds. This way, each bratwurst will yield six pieces. Cook them in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat until they are nicely browned, then let them cool.
Next, thaw the puff pastry according to the package directions. On a clean surface, roll each piece into a rectangle measuring approximately nine inches by twelve inches. Using a pizza cutter, cut each rectangle into eight strips that are about one and a half inches wide. Then, cut each strip into two shorter pieces.
Now, it’s time to spread about half a teaspoon of mustard on each piece of puff pastry. Make sure to cover the surface evenly for that burst of flavor.
On top of the mustard, place about two teaspoons of sauerkraut on each pastry piece. Then, top it off with a piece of cooked bratwurst for that savory filling.
Coat one narrow end of each pastry piece with the egg wash. This will help seal the puff pastry around the filling, ensuring it stays intact during baking. Roll the puff pastry up and around the filling tightly.
Next, brush the outside of the rolled pastry with more egg wash and sprinkle with poppy seeds or caraway seeds for an added touch of flavor and texture.
Place the rolled pastries seam side down on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Then, pop them in the refrigerator for about fifteen minutes. This helps them keep their shape while baking.
Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit. When ready, bake the German Style Pigs in a Blanket for about twenty-five minutes or until they are golden brown and flaky.
Finally, serve them warm with extra mustard on the side for dipping. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in every bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Using fully cooked bratwurst saves time and ensures they are perfectly tasty.
Letting the puff pastry chill before baking helps maintain its shape and flakiness.
Experiment with different types of mustard to find your favorite flavor combination.
Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well to avoid making the pastry soggy.

Helpful Hints

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these tips will help you master the art of making German Style Pigs in a Blanket.

Storage: Keep leftover German Style Pigs in a Blanket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked rolls for up to one month. Just bake them directly from the freezer without thawing.
Pairing: These are perfect with a refreshing salad or a side of roasted vegetables.
Serving Temperature: Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture; they taste amazing fresh out of the oven!
Customizing: Feel free to use different fillings like cheese or veggies for a fun twist!

How to Serve German Style Pigs in a Blanket

As Appetizers: German Style Pigs in a Blanket are perfect as appetizers at parties. Their finger-food nature makes them easy to enjoy while mingling.
Casual Gatherings: Serve these at casual get-togethers with friends or family. They’re great for game day or movie nights!
With Dipping Sauces: Offer a selection of dipping sauces, such as spicy mustard, to enhance the flavor experience.
At Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday party or a holiday gathering, these delightful bites will surely be a hit.
Seasonal Pairings: Serve these during fall, when everyone enjoys hearty flavors and comforting food.
Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They can also be reheated in the oven for a crispy texture.

FAQ

German Style Pigs in a Blanket typically use bratwurst instead of the common sausage. This gives them a distinct flavor profile influenced by German cuisine. The addition of sauerkraut and spicy mustard adds tanginess and depth, making these a unique twist on the classic dish. The flaky puff pastry wrapping is also a bit heftier, providing a delicious crunch. Overall, they offer a more robust and savory experience than the traditional version.

Absolutely! Preparing German Style Pigs in a Blanket ahead of time is a great way to save time on the day of your event. You can assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking and cook them straight from the freezer. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may take a few extra minutes to cook through.

These delightful bites pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve them with a simple salad for a light meal or roasted vegetables to balance the flavors. Additionally, having a selection of dipping sauces like mustard, ketchup, or even a spicy aioli can elevate the experience. They’re also perfect for casual snacking during game nights or parties!

The beauty of German Style Pigs in a Blanket is that they are incredibly versatile. While bratwurst is traditional, you can try different types of sausages, or even use vegetarian alternatives for a lighter option. Adding cheese, sautéed onions, or bell peppers can introduce new flavors. Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own by incorporating your favorite ingredients!

Conclusion

The German Style Pigs in a Blanket truly bring a unique twist to a classic party favorite. Their flaky exterior and savory filling create the perfect bite-sized treat that everyone loves. I encourage you to try making them for your next gathering; they’re sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the process of creating and sharing this delightful dish, and let it bring smiles to your table!