Air fryer pigs in a blanket is a super easy and irresistible crowd-pleasing appetizer that consists of only 2 ingredients: hot dogs wrapped in pastry dough! Made in the air fryer in minutes, this mouthwatering recipe is a hit for kids and adults alike.
Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket
Pigs in a Blanket involve small hot dogs or sausages wrapped up in biscuit dough or puff pastry. When baked or air-fried, the biscuit dough or puff pastry forms a golden brown crust that encases and gives warmth to the sausage or hotdogs inside. I love how convenient this dish is as it requires minimal effort to prepare and only takes minutes to make. My kids love the air-fried pigs in a blanket with ketchup or homemade Copycat Chick-Fila-A dipping sauce which makes them even more enjoyable to eat!
Why are they called Pigs in a Blanket?
The origins of the name are unclear, but some say it may have to do with the fact that when prepared as regular-sized snacks, they resemble piglets snuggled inside blankets. Others claim it's just a clever way of marketing; kids will find the cutesy idea entertaining enough to make them want to try it! We love this warm and tasty treat regardless of why they came to be known as pigs in a blanket. It is always a hit at our gatherings and disappears pretty fast.
Other Names for Hot Dogs in a Dough
This delicious and fun snack may also be called cocktail sausages for their convenient size, resembling appetizers. I heard other people in our Air fryer group call this beloved dish "hot dog rolls", "lil' smokies", mini sausage rolls "wieners wrapped in dough".
How to Make Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket
Start by preheating your air fryer. You don't need to line your machine with parchment paper, as the rolls make no mess. Lay out the store-bought crescent rolls or puff pastry sheets and cut them into slices, before filling them each with a mini hotdog or sausage of your choice. Place the rolls into the air fryer basket, and cook for about 8 minutes until golden brown and crunchy. I like to top my pigs with a sprinkling of sesame seeds. I choose Salt-free Everything bagel seasoning because I feel that there's a good amount of sodium in the hot dogs.
Please refer to the detailed instructions and tips on the recipe card below.
Filling Variation for Pigs in a Blanket
Combine leftover mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or chili with the dough for a unique savory twist on the classic dish.
For something sweeter, add fruit such as apples or peaches with cinnamon sugar and wrap up in the pastry. I love these Air Fryer Apple Turnovers with puff pastry.
This versatile treat can also be filled with cheese, jalapenos, or even Nutella!
Can I make Pigs in a Blanket in Advance?
Yes! You can make pigs in a blanket ahead of time and store them until your big day arrives. Wrap the hot dogs in the puff pastry or pre-made dough, place them on a baking tray, and freeze. Once frozen, place them in the zip lock bag and store them in the freezer. When you're ready to serve, pop them in the air fryer for 8 minutes or in the oven for 15 minutes until they are hot, puffy, and golden. You don’t even need to thaw them.
More Easy Air Fryer Appetizers
Homemade Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket
Air fryer pigs in a blanket is an irresistible and classic crowd-pleasing snack that consists of hot dogs wrapped in pastry dough! Takes minutes to make in the air fryer, this mouthwatering recipe is a hit for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 4 hot dog links
- 4 puff pastry squares, approx 3,5”
- Oil for brushing; or spray oil
- Everything bagel seasoning, optional
Instructions
- Thaw the puff pastry sheets
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C)
- Cut the pastry sheet into 4 half-inch strips (see pictures in the post)
- Cut each hot dog into 3 pieces. Make a slit at the ends, if desired.
- Wrap each hot dog piece in puff pastry and secure the end with your finger. In my case, dry fingers worked best, closing the puff pastry ends together.
- Using a knife, gently cut a few slits in the puff pastry.
- Place pigs in the Blanket directly onto the air fryer basket (or tray).
- Lightly brush with oil. Or spray with oil. I’m using Ghee butter oil spray.
- Sprinkle on Salt-Free Everything Bagel seasoning, if desired
- Cook in a preheated air fryer until golden brown, crispy and puffy. About 8 minutes, turning each pig halfway through the cooking.
- Serve with your favorite dip or give homemade Chick-Fil-A sauce a try.
Notes
Can I make Pigs in a Blanket in Advance?
Yes! Prepare them beforehand and store them until your big day arrives. Wrap the hot dogs in the puff pastry or pre-made dough, place them on a baking tray, and freeze. Once frozen, place them in the zip lock bag and store in the freezer. When you're ready to serve, pop them in the air fryer for 8 minutes or in the oven for 15 minutes until they are hot, puffy and golden. You don’t even need to thaw them.
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