Utilizing Pillsbury pie crust provides a flaky, buttery base for creating classic Pigs in a Blanket. This method ensures a quick and appealing appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

• 1 package (14.1 oz) Pillsbury™ refrigerated pie crusts (contains 2 crusts)
• 1 package (approx. 12-14 oz) cocktail sausages or little smokies, drained and patted dry
• Optional: 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: Toppings (e.g., sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning)
• Optional: Thin slices or small shreds of cheese (e.g., cheddar, American)

Preparation and Baking

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Unroll one pie crust onto a lightly floured surface (keep the second crust refrigerated until needed).
3. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the pie crust into strips approximately 1/2 to 3/4-inch wide. Alternatively, cut into small, elongated triangles.
4. If incorporating cheese, place a small piece onto one end of a dough strip.
5. Position one cocktail sausage at the end of a dough strip (atop cheese, if used).
6. Carefully wrap the dough strip spirally around the sausage. Pinch the dough seam gently to seal.
7. Arrange the wrapped sausages seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, allowing slight space between each for even baking.
8. Optional: For enhanced browning and to help toppings adhere, lightly brush the dough with beaten egg wash.
9. Optional: If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or other preferred seasonings.
10. Bake for 12-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and puffed. Baking time may vary based on oven specifics and sausage size.
11. Remove from oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a serving platter. Serve warm with preferred dipping sauces.

Tips and Variations

• Maintain Dough Temperature: Work with cold dough for easier handling and a flakier crust. If dough becomes too soft, briefly refrigerate.
• Uniformity: Strive for consistent sausage and dough strip sizes to ensure even baking.
• Flavor Additions: Before wrapping, lightly brush dough strips with Dijon mustard or sprinkle with garlic powder for added zest.
• Cheese Placement: For optimal melting, ensure cheese is fully encased by the dough.
• Alternative Sausages: Small, pre-cooked breakfast sausage links can be substituted for cocktail sausages. Ensure they are fully cooked if using raw sausage alternatives, adjusting baking time accordingly.