There’s something undeniably cozy about a warm, buttery bite of this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe. Wrapped in golden crescent dough and kissed with sweet maple or savory cheese, it’s the kind of breakfast that brings smiles around the table — whether it’s a lazy Sunday or a holiday morning.
Overview of Recipe
This breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe takes a beloved childhood snack and gives it a morning makeover like this version from The Kitchn. Think: juicy breakfast sausage wrapped in pillowy crescent rolls, baked to golden perfection. Some versions even melt gooey cheese inside or drizzle with maple syrup for an indulgent finish. The concept is simple, the prep is easy, and the result? Pure satisfaction.
These mini morning roll-ups are perfect for weekend brunches, potlucks, or busy weekdays when you want something hot and filling in a hurry. They’re deeply nostalgic — like something you’d get at a small-town diner with bottomless coffee and a smile from the server who already knows your order. With both savory and sweet notes, this dish hits the breakfast trifecta: satisfying, versatile, and craveable.
Plus, they’re incredibly easy to customize. From adding shredded cheddar to swapping in plant-based sausage, this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe plays nice with just about any dietary preference. It’s the kind of dish that feels both comforting and adaptable — and that’s what makes it shine.
Ingredients List
To make 8 servings (one sausage roll each), you’ll need:
- 8 fully cooked chicken breakfast sausage links
(Choose a mildly seasoned variety or maple-flavored if you prefer a sweeter profile.) - 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-count)
- 1 large egg (optional, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (to thin the egg wash)
- 4 slices mild cheddar cheese (optional, cut in half to yield 8 thin strips)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for drizzling or dipping)
- Everything bagel seasoning or garlic powder (optional, for topping)
Notes on sourcing: Look for nitrate-free chicken sausage links in the refrigerated section. Crescent dough is usually in the refrigerated biscuit aisle. You can also find plant-based or turkey sausages as excellent swaps.
Necessary Tools for Preparation
Here’s what you’ll need to make this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe smoothly from start to finish:
- Baking sheet: A standard-sized sheet pan works well.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and helps with even browning.
- Small bowl + fork or whisk: For mixing the optional egg wash.
- Pastry brush: Useful for applying the egg wash evenly on the dough.
- Tongs or spatula: For handling hot sausage links after cooking.
- Cooling rack (optional): Keeps the bottoms from getting soggy after baking.
- Oven or toaster oven: Preheated to 375°F (190°C) for ideal baking conditions.
- Knife or kitchen shears: For slicing cheese or trimming dough if needed.
These tools are common in most home kitchens and make the process clean and quick. If you’re prepping with kids, swap the knife for kitchen-safe shears and let them help roll the sausages in dough — it’s a fun and mess-friendly way to get them involved.
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
One of the great strengths of this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or just want to change things up, here are some smart substitutions and flavorful additions:
Protein Swaps:
- Turkey sausage: A leaner option that’s still savory and satisfying.
- Chicken apple sausage: Adds a slightly sweet profile that pairs beautifully with maple syrup.
- Vegetarian sausage: Plant-based links (like Beyond or MorningStar Farms) work well — just make sure they’re precooked before wrapping.
Dough Options:
- Puff pastry: Offers a flakier, buttery texture — best when slightly thawed before wrapping.
- Pancake batter: For a fun twist, dip pre-cooked sausages in thick pancake batter and bake in a muffin tin for a corndog-like experience.
- Biscuit dough: Heartier and more filling — just be sure to flatten it thin enough for wrapping.
Cheese Additions:
- Cheddar (sharp or mild), Monterey Jack, or Swiss: Adds a melty layer of richness inside each roll.
- Cream cheese: For a tangy touch, spread a thin layer onto the dough before rolling.
Toppings and Finishes:
- Everything bagel seasoning: Adds crunch and savory complexity.
- Maple syrup drizzle: A sweet counterpoint to the salty sausage.
- Chili crisp or hot honey: For those who like a kick with their breakfast.
These options make this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe endlessly customizable while staying comforting and approachable.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s walk through how to make this dish, one delicious step at a time:
① Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If using an egg wash, whisk together 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Set aside.
Remove the crescent roll dough from its packaging and gently separate it into 8 individual triangles on a clean surface.
② Cook the Sausage
In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook your chicken sausage links for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through and lightly browned. This step adds extra flavor and ensures they’re cooked evenly before baking.
Use tongs to transfer them to a plate to cool slightly. (You don’t want to wrap piping-hot sausage in the dough — it could cause tearing.)
③ Wrap the Sausages
Lay one piece of sausage at the wider end of each dough triangle. If using cheese, place a strip or sprinkle shredded cheese directly beneath the sausage.
Roll the dough snugly around the sausage, from the wide end to the tip. Place each wrapped piece seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to prevent unrolling.
④ Optional Toppings
Brush the tops of each roll with your egg wash using a pastry brush. This gives them that shiny, golden-brown bakery look.
Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning or garlic powder if desired.
⑤ Bake to Perfection
Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the dough is puffed and golden brown. The sausage should be hot and the cheese (if used) gently melted.
Keep an eye on them in the final minutes to avoid overbrowning.
⑥ Rest & Serve
Let them rest on a cooling rack for 3–5 minutes before serving. This keeps the bottoms from steaming and going soggy.
Serve warm with maple syrup for dipping, a dollop of mustard, or even a swipe of hot honey. They’re also great plain — just as they are — buttery, savory, and full of breakfast joy.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe is endlessly versatile when it comes to serving. Whether you’re crafting a cozy brunch or packing a warm breakfast to-go, these golden sausage rolls fit in perfectly.
Classic Morning Plate: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, fresh orange slices, and a drizzle of maple syrup. The combination of sweet, savory, and citrus is a breakfast dream.
Mini Brunch Board: Build a spread with these blanket-wrapped sausages as the anchor. Add grapes, berries, yogurt parfaits, and mini muffins for a beautiful, shareable meal.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store cooled rolls in individual containers with fruit and a hard-boiled egg for a week of grab-and-go breakfasts.
Dipping Sauces: While maple syrup is a classic, try serving this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe with:
- Spicy honey
- Dijon mustard
- Herbed cream cheese
- Hot sauce or chili crisp for heat lovers
Holiday Morning Favorite: These are perfect for Christmas breakfast, Easter brunch, or even a birthday morning surprise. They’re simple to prep the night before, and the aroma in the oven sets a cozy tone for the day.
Tips for Best Results
To make sure your breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tried-and-true tips:
1. Mind the Dough Stretch: Crescent roll dough is delicate — roll it gently and don’t pull too tight or it may tear during baking.
2. Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the tops adds color, crispness, and helps any toppings stick. If you’re egg-free, melted butter works in a pinch.
3. Keep the Cheese Inside: If you’re adding cheese, tuck it well inside the dough to prevent leaks or burning on the pan.
4. Pre-Browning Sausage: Even precooked sausage benefits from a light sear. This adds depth of flavor and ensures they stay hot inside the roll.
5. Seam-Side Down Always: This helps the dough stay wrapped while baking — no unwinding surprises in the oven.
6. Let Them Rest: After baking, place the rolls on a cooling rack for a few minutes. This prevents condensation and keeps the bottoms from getting soggy.
7. Make It Interactive: Set up a DIY rolling station if serving kids or hosting brunch. Let guests roll their own combos — cheddar, veggie sausage, puff pastry — it’s a fun, hands-on twist to your breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe.

Storage Instructions
Another reason this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe is a keeper? It stores and reheats beautifully — making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
Refrigerator:
- Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Wrap them in foil to keep them soft and tender.
Freezer:
- Allow rolls to cool completely.
- Place on a baking sheet to flash freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- Label and date; store for up to 2 months.
Reheating Options:
- Oven or toaster oven: 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until heated through.
- Air fryer: 320°F for 5–6 minutes — great for crisping the outside.
- Microwave: 30–40 seconds per roll, though the texture may soften more than desired.
Pro Tip: If reheating from frozen, let the rolls thaw overnight in the fridge for even results. You can also bake directly from frozen — just add a few extra minutes.
Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or pulled from the freezer on a busy Monday, this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe holds up like a champ.
FAQ
Can I make this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them overnight on a parchment-lined tray, covered. The next morning, simply bake as directed. You can also freeze them pre- or post-bake.
Is crescent roll dough the best option?
It’s the easiest and most consistent. That said, this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe also works well with puff pastry or even biscuit dough, just be sure to adjust baking times slightly.
Can I make these without cheese?
Definitely. Cheese is optional and won’t impact the integrity of the roll. For dairy-free options, skip the cheese and brush the tops with olive oil instead of egg wash.
Are vegetarian sausages good in this recipe?
Yes! Many plant-based sausages brown beautifully and pair well with the dough. Look for precooked versions to save time.
What if I want to make mini versions?
Just slice each dough triangle in half lengthwise and use mini sausages. Reduce bake time by 2–3 minutes and check for doneness early.
Conclusion
This breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe isn’t just another morning meal — it’s a nostalgic bite of warmth, love, and comfort food magic. It’s the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again, whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.
From the golden, flaky crust to the juicy sausage center — with maple drizzles, cheese options, or savory toppings — it delivers bold breakfast flavor in the easiest way possible. Plus, the adaptability of this recipe ensures everyone at the table, from picky kids to adventurous brunch-goers, will find a reason to smile.
So why wait for the weekend? Whip up this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe any day of the week, and let the aroma of buttery dough and sizzling sausage fill your kitchen with joy.
Print
Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 sausage rolls 1x
Description
Warm, buttery breakfast pigs in a blanket made with crescent rolls and sausage—perfect for cozy mornings and easy brunches.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 8 fully cooked chicken breakfast sausage links (mild or maple-flavored)
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-count)
- 1 large egg (optional, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (to thin the egg wash)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 4 slices mild cheddar cheese, halved (8 strips total)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for drizzling or dipping)
- Everything bagel seasoning or garlic powder (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk egg and water in a small bowl if using egg wash.
- Cook Sausage: Heat sausages in a skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until browned. Let cool slightly.
- Wrap Sausages: Unroll crescent dough and separate into 8 triangles. Place sausage on wide end. Add cheese if using. Roll snugly and place seam-side down on the sheet.
- Top Rolls: Brush with egg wash and sprinkle toppings if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Let rest on a cooling rack for 3–5 minutes. Serve with maple syrup or desired dips.
Notes
- For vegetarian/vegan options, use plant-based sausage and skip egg wash.
- Puff pastry or biscuit dough are tasty dough alternatives.
- Store in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months. Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture.
- For minis, cut dough triangles in half and use mini sausages. Adjust bake time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sausage roll
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 470 mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Additional Recommended Recipes
If you enjoyed this breakfast pigs in a blanket recipe, here are more delicious ideas to keep the morning magic going:
- Breakfast Burrito Bites Recipe – Mini, meaty, and cheesy bites that pack a punch of flavor in every tortilla-wrapped bite.
- Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe – A savory-sweet showstopper loaded with eggs, sausage, and biscuit dough—perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake with Oats – Warm, protein-rich, and lightly sweet—an oven-baked hug to start the day.
- Cheesecake Crescent Roll Casserole – Creamy and indulgent with flaky layers—a sweet twist for brunch lovers.
Make your mornings even more delicious with these crave-worthy breakfast favorites!
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