Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with a show-stopping creation that’s as delightful to look at as it is to devour: the Pigs in a Blanket Wreath! This festive and incredibly easy recipe takes a beloved classic and transforms it into an elegant, holiday-ready centerpiece perfect for any gathering. Imagine flaky crescent dough, expertly wrapped around savory Lit’l Smokies, arranged in a beautiful wreath shape, and baked to a golden brown perfection. Dusted with vibrant poppy seeds and garnished with fresh rosemary, this appetizer isn’t just a snack; it’s a conversation starter. What truly sets this recipe apart is the secret ingredient: Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing, brushed inside the dough for an extra layer of flavor and served in the center for dipping, adding its signature sweet and tangy zest. Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday party, enjoying a casual game day, or simply want a delicious treat any day of the week, this Pigs in a Blanket Wreath is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
As the year-end festivities approach, the days seem to fly by in a whirlwind. Thanksgiving feels like a distant memory, and suddenly, Christmas is just around the corner, with New Year’s Eve quickly following suit. In the midst of all the hustle and bustle, what every host needs is a reliable, super fun, and effortlessly easy appetizer that delivers on both taste and presentation. This Pigs in a Blanket Wreath recipe is precisely that. We’re taking the classic “pigs in a blanket” concept and making it “extra special” by infusing it with the unique, beloved flavor of Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing. Not only will a touch of this dressing be brushed onto the crescent dough before rolling, but a generous bowl will also sit proudly in the center of the wreath, inviting guests to dip those toasty, crescent-rolled Lil Smokies into its irresistible blend of sweet and savory notes. It’s an appetizer designed to impress without the stress, leaving you more time to enjoy the joyous season.
This post is proudly sponsored by Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment. All opinions and my deep love for Nebraska’s own Dorothy Lynch are genuinely my own. As a long-time fan, I genuinely believe in the unique flavor Dorothy Lynch brings to any dish, and I’m excited to share how it transforms this festive appetizer.
The Ultimate Pigs in a Blanket Wreath for Festive Gatherings
For those who have followed my culinary adventures for a while, it’s no secret that I am a devoted fan of Dorothy Lynch, a Nebraska-based company whose dressings have a permanent spot in my pantry. Their unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors, coupled with a creamy texture, consistently elevates my recipes from simple to truly exceptional. This Pigs in a Blanket Wreath is no exception, benefiting immensely from Dorothy Lynch’s distinctive profile. It’s more than just a dressing; it’s a flavor enhancer that brings a homemade touch and a burst of unexpected deliciousness to everything it touches. The addition of Dorothy Lynch here transforms a simple appetizer into a gourmet experience, making each bite unforgettable.
Elevate Your Holiday Spread with a Pigs in a Blanket Holiday Wreath
Why settle for the ordinary when you can create something extraordinary with minimal effort? This recipe encourages you to forgo the traditional linear layout of pigs in a blanket and instead craft a visually stunning and delightfully festive wreath. The beauty of this approach is that you don’t need any special or additional ingredients beyond what you’d typically use for the classic version. Simply arrange your wrapped sausages in a inviting circle, leaving a space in the middle for a dipping bowl, and you’re all set to impress. It’s an easy yet elegant twist that instantly adds a touch of holiday cheer and sophistication to your appetizer spread. The wreath shape not only looks impressive but also makes serving and sharing incredibly convenient for your guests.
If you’re already captivated by the charm and flavor of this Pigs in a Blanket Holiday Wreath, you’ll be thrilled to discover other fantastic appetizers that feature the versatile Dorothy Lynch dressing. Be sure to explore these other crowd-pleasing recipes: our irresistible Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts, the uniquely delicious Dorothy’s Cornbread Drop Biscuits, and the savory Dorothy’s Pizza Pockets. Each of these offers a distinct flavor experience, all enhanced by the special touch of Dorothy Lynch.
Versatile and Customizable: Your Holiday Wreath with Pigs in a Blanket
One of the many advantages of this holiday wreath with pigs in a blanket is its exceptional ease of preparation, even allowing for advance assembly, making it a stress-free option for busy hosts. You truly can’t go wrong with these simple yet satisfying bites. Beyond the basic recipe, feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this dish to suit your personal tastes or party theme. Change up the seasoning by sprinkling the crescent dough with your favorite herbs – think a pinch of Italian seasoning, a dash of garlic powder, or a hint of smoked paprika for extra depth. For a delightful cheesy twist, add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese inside the dough before rolling. If you’re looking to incorporate a touch of vibrant color and freshness, consider tossing on some halved grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes just before baking. These simple additions can transform the flavor and visual appeal, ensuring your wreath is always a unique and memorable treat.
Essential Ingredients for Your Pigs in a Blanket Holiday Wreath
Crafting this festive Pigs in a Blanket Wreath requires just a handful of readily available ingredients. The magic happens when these simple components come together, especially with the unique touch of Dorothy Lynch dressing. For a complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions, remember to scroll to the bottom of this post for the full printable recipe card. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Lit’l Smokies Sausages: These mini sausages are the heart of our pigs in a blanket. While I typically use Beef Lit’l Smokies mini sausages for their classic flavor, any brand of mini hot dogs or similar cocktail sausages will work perfectly. You can even find varieties made with chicken or pork, allowing for subtle flavor variations.
- Crescent Rolls: You’ll need one package of refrigerated crescent rolls. These can usually be found in the dairy or refrigerated dough section of your local grocery store. Their buttery, flaky texture is essential for the perfect “blanket” around our little smokies. Opt for classic crescent rolls rather than the “reduced fat” versions for the best flavor and texture.
- Dorothy Lynch Dressing: This is our star secret ingredient! I’ll be brushing 1 Tablespoon of Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing onto the crescent dough for an added layer of flavor that bakes into the rolls. Additionally, a generous amount will be placed in the center of the wreath for dipping, offering its distinctive sweet and tangy profile.
- Egg: A single egg, mixed with a small amount of water, forms our simple egg wash. This is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown sheen on your baked crescent rolls and helps the poppy seeds adhere.
- Poppy Seeds: A light sprinkle of poppy seeds not only adds a lovely visual contrast and a delicate, nutty crunch but also enhances the overall texture of the wreath. They contribute to the classic “everything bagel” aesthetic, which is always a hit.
- Fresh Rosemary Sprigs: For a vibrant touch of green and a delightful aromatic garnish, fresh sprigs of rosemary are ideal. They evoke a festive, holiday feel and complement the savory flavors of the sausages and dough beautifully.
Keep reading to discover valuable tips and tricks, creative substitution ideas, and answers to common questions you might have about preparing this stunning holiday wreath appetizer. We’ll ensure you have all the knowledge to make this recipe a resounding success!
How to Make This Irresistible Pigs in a Blanket Christmas Wreath
Creating this eye-catching and delicious appetizer is surprisingly straightforward, coming together in just a few easy steps. Follow these instructions to craft your perfect Pigs in a Blanket Christmas Wreath:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). While the oven heats, prepare a large baking sheet, preferably a pizza pan for a perfect circular shape, by lining it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Carefully unroll the crescent dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, gently spread 1 Tablespoon of Dorothy Lynch Dressing evenly over the entire surface of the unrolled dough. This step infuses a subtle, sweet, and tangy flavor directly into the pastry as it bakes.
Next, take each large crescent dough triangle and slice it lengthwise into three equal-sized smaller triangle pieces. This ensures that each mini sausage gets just the right amount of dough, creating perfectly proportioned bites.
Place one Lit’l Smokies sausage at the wider, thicker end of each small crescent roll dough triangle. Tightly roll the dough around the sausage, just as you would form a traditional crescent roll. Continue this process until all the dough triangles and sausages have been used.
Now comes the fun part: forming the wreath! Arrange the wrapped sausages on your parchment-lined baking sheet in a circular pattern. Ensure that each crescent-wrapped sausage is touching the ones next to it. This contact is crucial as they bake, helping them expand and stick together to form a cohesive, beautiful wreath.
Expert Tip: To ensure your wreath has the perfect size opening in the center for your dipping bowl, place the empty bowl you intend to use in the middle of the baking sheet before arranging the wrapped sausages. Build the wreath around the bowl, removing it before baking. This guarantees a snug and aesthetically pleasing fit.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and ½ teaspoon of water until thoroughly combined. This creates your egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the tops of all the crescent rolls in the wreath with the egg wash. Immediately sprinkle generously with poppy seeds, which will adhere beautifully to the egg wash, adding both texture and visual appeal.
Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 24 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are puffed, golden brown, and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
Once baked, carefully transfer the entire wreath to a large serving platter or a rustic wooden board. Garnish generously with fresh rosemary sprigs, tucking them in between the rolls for a beautiful, fragrant, and festive touch.
Place a small, attractive bowl in the center of the wreath and fill it with the remaining Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing for dipping. Serve the Pigs in a Blanket Wreath hot, allowing your guests to enjoy the warm, flaky pastry and savory sausages dipped in the irresistible sauce.
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) or in an air fryer until heated through and crispy again.
Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
If you’ve fallen in love with this delightful Pigs in a Blanket Wreath recipe and plan to make it a staple for your holiday gatherings or any celebration, don’t let it slip away! Make sure to save it for future reference. Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you navigate away, so you can easily find it whenever the craving for a festive and delicious appetizer strikes. Happy pinning!
Creative Substitutions for Your Wreath Appetizer
The beauty of cooking lies in its flexibility and the freedom to experiment. When it comes to making substitutions in recipes, don’t hesitate to get creative and tailor the ingredients to suit your personal taste, dietary preferences, or simply what you have on hand. Make this Pigs in a Blanket Wreath truly your own!
- Sausage Swaps: While Lit’l Smokies are a classic choice, feel free to swap them out for any type of mini sausage or hot dog. You can use cocktail hot dogs, mini chicken sausages, or even cut up full-sized hot dogs into appropriate cocktail-sized pieces. For a vegetarian-friendly option, simply use vegetarian hot dogs or plant-based cocktail sausages, ensuring everyone at your party can enjoy this festive treat.
- Topping Alternatives: Instead of poppy seeds, which add a lovely crunch, consider other toppings to vary the flavor and appearance. A sprinkle of sesame seeds offers a different nutty note, while everything bagel seasoning provides a complex blend of garlic, onion, and various seeds for a bolder flavor profile. You could also try dried minced onion or garlic for a savory kick, or even a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for an umami boost.
- Dough Variations: While crescent roll dough is ideal for its flakiness and ease, you could experiment with other pre-made doughs. Puff pastry, cut into strips, would yield an even flakier, richer result. Alternatively, thinly rolled biscuit dough or pizza dough could offer a slightly chewier texture.
- Internal Fillings: Before rolling, add a tiny sliver of cheese (cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack) alongside the sausage for a melted surprise. A small dab of mustard, relish, or even a thin slice of jalapeño can add extra zing.
FAQs About This Delightful Pigs in a Blanket Wreath Recipe
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and serving this festive Pigs in a Blanket Wreath:
- Can I make this wreath in advance? Absolutely! To prepare the wreath in advance, you can assemble it completely up to the point of brushing with the egg wash and adding poppy seeds. Cover the unbaked wreath loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, then apply the egg wash and poppy seeds and bake as directed.
- Can I use a different type of dough? While crescent roll dough is the most common and recommended dough for its characteristic flakiness and ease, you can certainly experiment with other options. Biscuit dough, rolled out thinly, can create a slightly denser, chewier blanket. Pizza dough also works, but ensure it’s rolled very thin to achieve a nice, crispy texture upon baking. For a much flakier, more delicate crust, you could try using phyllo dough, though this will require a bit more careful handling and likely a higher fat content in the pastry.
- Do you serve pigs in a blanket warm or cold? Pigs in a Blanket are traditionally enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, or at room temperature. The warm, flaky dough and savory sausage are particularly comforting. However, if you prefer them cold, there’s no rule against it – to each their own! Just be aware that the dough might lose some of its crispness when cold.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? For optimal results, reheat leftover pigs in a blanket in a preheated oven or air fryer. In the oven, bake at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through and the dough crisps up. In an air fryer, heat at 325°F (160°C) for 3-5 minutes. Microwaving is generally not recommended as it can make the dough soft and chewy.
- Can I use full-sized hot dogs instead of Lit’l Smokies? Yes, you can! If using full-sized hot dogs, cut each hot dog into 3 or 4 pieces, depending on your desired size for the “pigs.” You might also need to adjust the crescent dough triangles, cutting them slightly larger or wider to accommodate the bigger hot dog pieces.
Pro Tips & Tricks for a Perfect Pigs in a Blanket Wreath
Achieving a picture-perfect and delicious Pigs in a Blanket Wreath is easy with these helpful tips and tricks:
- Ensure Even Dough Thickness: When wrapping the smokies, make sure the dough is rolled and wrapped as evenly as possible. Thick patches of dough can result in undercooked, chewy areas, while thin spots might burn or tear. Uniformity ensures thorough baking and consistent texture.
- Pre-size Your Wreath with a Bowl: As mentioned in the instructions, before you start placing your wrapped smokies, set the actual bowl you plan to use for your dip in the center of the parchment-lined baking sheet. Arrange the wrapped sausages around it. This clever trick ensures your finished wreath will have the perfect opening, guaranteeing your dipping bowl fits snugly and looks aesthetically pleasing after baking.
- Make Them Touch for Cohesion: For the wreath to hold its shape beautifully and not fall apart when transferred or served, it is essential that the wrapped smokies are touching one another on the baking sheet. As they bake and expand, they will naturally stick together, creating a unified, robust wreath structure.
- Use a Pizza Cutter for Precision: For quick and perfectly even cuts of the crescent dough triangles, a pizza cutter is your best friend. It glides smoothly through the dough, making the task much faster and more precise than using a knife.
- Boost the Flavor Profile: Don’t be shy about adding extra flavor! Before rolling, lightly dust the crescent dough pieces with a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of your favorite dried herbs like Italian seasoning. For a cheesy kick, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese onto the dough before wrapping the sausages. These additions bake into the dough, adding layers of savory deliciousness.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: While the rolls should touch to form the wreath, ensure there’s still a little space around the outer edge of the wreath on the baking sheet. This allows for proper air circulation, promoting even browning and crispiness.
What is Dorothy Lynch? A Nebraska Legend
Dorothy Lynch, the woman behind the legendary dressing, first crafted her famous recipe in the 1940s. She developed it while running a restaurant with her husband at the Legion Club in St. Paul, Nebraska. Her homemade dressing quickly became a local sensation, so popular that eager customers would bring in their own bottles for Dorothy to fill, eager to enjoy its unique flavor at home. This humble beginning soon blossomed into a beloved regional, and eventually national, brand known for its distinctive taste.
Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment is best known for its one-of-a-kind sweet and spicy flavor profile and its wonderfully thick, creamy texture. Its vibrant reddish-orange hue often leads people to mistake it for French dressing, but the two are fundamentally different. Traditional French dressing is typically oil-based, while Dorothy Lynch is distinctively tomato-based, offering a rich, homemade taste that truly sets it apart from any other dressing on the market. It’s a versatile condiment that captures the essence of Midwestern comfort and hospitality in every delicious drop.
How Can You Use Dorothy Lynch Beyond Salads? Unlock Its Versatility!
While Dorothy Lynch is undoubtedly delicious on a fresh green salad—and indeed, most of us Nebraskans grew up absolutely loving it that way—to limit it solely to salads would be to miss out on its incredible versatility. This dressing is so much more than a simple salad topper; it’s a powerhouse condiment and ingredient waiting to transform countless dishes!
Think of it as your new go-to condiment for almost anything. Try dipping crispy French fries, hot pizza slices, or even perfectly fried chicken into its sweet and tangy goodness. Trust me, it elevates these everyday favorites to a next-level deliciousness! For those mindful of calories but unwilling to compromise on flavor, Dorothy Lynch Light & Lean offers the same incredible taste with fewer calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
But where the true magic happens is when you start incorporating Dorothy Lynch into your cooking. Over the years, I’ve experimented with it in a variety of dishes, and the results are consistently outstanding. One of my biggest hits has to be the Sloppy Dorothy sandwich. It’s like a much better, more flavorful version of a classic Sloppy Joe! Even my husband, who swore he’d never touch a Sloppy Joe, came back for enthusiastic seconds after trying this rendition. Its unique flavor profile adds a depth that enhances marinades, glazes, and savory sauces alike.
Discover all of my Dorothy Lynch Recipes Here and prepare to be inspired by its endless culinary possibilities.
More Irresistible Appetizer Recipes to Love
If your appetite for delicious appetizers has been piqued by this festive Pigs in a Blanket Wreath, you’re in luck! I have a host of other fantastic recipes that are perfect for any occasion. For those who enjoy hot appetizers, you should definitely try these incredibly easy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs, the savory and satisfying Reuben Nachos, or this hearty Pepperoni Pizza Bread. Each offers a unique flavor and is sure to be a hit.
If your preference leans towards refreshing cold appetizers, then you may absolutely love this tangy Dill Pickle Dip, which is always a crowd-pleaser, or the elegant and delicious Dorothy’s Holiday Cheese Ball (pictured above), which perfectly blends creaminess with festive flavors. No matter what your craving, these recipes offer delightful options to complement any spread and keep your guests happy.
Where Can I Get My Own Bottle of Dorothy Lynch Dressing?
Ready to experience the unique flavor of Dorothy Lynch for yourself? Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment is widely available and easy to find, especially if you’re in its home territory. It can be purchased at most grocery stores across Nebraska, and you’ll also find it at select grocery stores located west of the Mississippi River. If you’re having trouble locating it on your local supermarket shelves, or simply prefer the convenience of online shopping, you can always get your pantry stocked with Dorothy Lynch by shopping directly at Buy Nebraska, which ships this delicious dressing right to your door!
To stay updated on the latest recipes, usage ideas, and promotions, make sure to follow along with Dorothy Lynch on their official website and connect with them across their social media platforms: Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You’ll find a wealth of delicious recipes and inspiration all year long!
This easy, elegant, and incredibly flavorful recipe for Pigs in a Blanket Wreath is absolutely perfect for your upcoming holiday party, Christmas dinner, or any festive celebration. With its beautiful presentation, golden-brown flaky pastry, and the irresistible touch of Dorothy Lynch dressing, it’s bound to be a conversation starter and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Prepare for it to disappear fast!
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Pigs in a Blanket Wreath
This festive appetizer is as beautiful as it is delicious! Little Smokies are wrapped in flaky crescent dough, arranged in a wreath shape, dusted with poppy seeds, and baked to golden brown perfection. Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve with a bowl of Dorothy Lynch in the center of the ring for dipping. This is fantastic for holiday parties, but also great for game day, or any day!
14 mins
8 mins
Ingredients
- 1 (12 ounce) package of Lit’l Smokies sausages
- 1 (8 ounce) package crescent rolls
- ¾ cup + 1 Tablespoon Dorothy Lynch Dressing
- 1 egg
- ½ teaspoon water
- ½ – 1 Tablespoon poppy seeds
- Rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350˚F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the crescent dough and brush with 1 Tablespoon of Dorothy Lynch Dressing.
- Slice each dough triangle into three equal-sized triangle pieces.
- Place one sausage at the thicker end of one triangle of dough and roll it like you would form a crescent. Repeat until all of the dough is used.
- Place the crescent-rolled sausages on the prepared baking sheet in a circle so that they touch one another, forming the shape of the wreath.
- Whisk egg and water together until combined. Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with poppy seeds.
- Bake for 20 – 24 minutes or until golden brown.
- Place the wreath on a large serving plate or wooden board and garnish with rosemary sprigs.
- Place the bowl in the center of the wreath and fill it with Dorothy Lynch Dressing for dipping.
- Serve hot.
Notes
Tip: Before forming the shape of the wreath, place the bowl you plan to use for the dip in the center to help you ensure that your bowl will fit after the wreath is baked.