As I stood in the kitchen, the sweet aroma of maple syrup mingled with the savory scent of sizzling bacon, memories of festive gatherings flooded my mind. This is what inspired my take on Sticky Pigs in Blankets with Sage, a delightful twist on a British classic. These irresistible bites are the perfect crowd-pleaser for your Christmas party, and I love how two simple ingredients—a perfect sausage and crispy bacon—come together to create an appetizer that everyone raves about! Plus, with the addition of fresh sage leaves, these treats offer a refreshing layer of flavor that’s simply unmatched. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just wanting to elevate your snacking game, these sticky delights provide both quick prep and a delightful flavor punch. Ready to dive into a recipe that might just steal the show at your next gathering? Let’s get cooking! Why Are These Pigs in Blankets Irresistible? Irresistibly Sticky: The combination of maple syrup and bacon creates a sticky, sweet delight that’s impossible to resist. Savory Satisfaction: These mouthwatering bites are made using flavorful sausages wrapped in crispy bacon, ensuring a perfect balance of textures. Festive Appeal: Ideal for holiday gatherings, they’re not just appetizers; they’re conversation starters that never fail to impress guests! Easy to Prepare: With a simple preparation process, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time, making it a time-saving addition to your festive menu. If you’re looking for more ways to elevate your holiday cooking, check out our top Christmas appetizers for more inspiration! Sticky Pigs in Blankets Ingredients For the Sausages • Cocktail or Chipolata Sausages – Bite-sized pieces are perfect for easy snacking. Large pork bangers can substitute if smaller ones aren’t available. For the Bacon • Thin-Cut Streaky Bacon – Ensures optimal crispiness and flavor when wrapping the sausages. For the Herb Enhancement • Fresh Sage Leaves – Adds a herby brightness to the dish, balancing the richness of the bacon and making your Sticky Pigs in Blankets extra special. For the Glaze • Maple Syrup – Provides the sweet, sticky glaze that makes these bites irresistible, enhancing their festive appeal. For Seasoning • Black Pepper – A simple yet essential seasoning that elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish. These ingredients come together to create a holiday treat that’s not only delicious but also a delightful conversation starter at any festive gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky Pigs in Blankets Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F) or set your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). This step is crucial as it ensures that your Sticky Pigs in Blankets cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispiness. While the oven heats up, gather your baking tray or air fryer basket to prepare for the sausages. Step 2: Wrap the Sausages Take your cocktail or chipolata sausages and wrap each tightly with a strip of thin-cut streaky bacon. For an extra touch of flavor, place a fresh sage leaf atop each wrapped sausage. This combination adds a herby note that beautifully complements the sweetness of the maple glaze. Arrange the sausages neatly on your baking tray or air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Step 3: Drizzle and Season Once your sausages are all wrapped in their cozy bacon and sage layers, it’s time to drizzle them generously with maple syrup. This sticky glaze will create a deliciously sweet crust as it cooks. Don’t forget to sprinkle a pinch of black pepper over the top to enhance the flavors of your Sticky Pigs in Blankets, delivering that perfect savory contrast. Step 4: Bake or Air Fry Place your baking tray into the preheated oven or the air fryer basket. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the sausages are cooked through, reaching a lovely golden-brown hue. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overcooking; the goal is that irresistible crunch and juicy interior that makes these bites so delightful. Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy Once the Sticky Pigs in Blankets are out of the oven, let them cool for a moment before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve them warm, ideally drizzled with extra maple syrup for dipping. These tasty morsels are sure to steal the spotlight at your gathering, inviting everyone to indulge in their captivating flavor! What to Serve with Irresistibly Sticky Pigs in Blankets Looking to create a complete and unforgettable meal that complements your festive Sticky Pigs in Blankets? Here are some delightful ideas! Maple Mustard Dip: A sweet and tangy dip that elevates the flavors of the pigs, enhancing their sticky goodness. Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Golden and fluffy, they provide a comforting textural contrast and soak up the maple flavors beautifully. Herbed Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette add a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the bacon. Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory, these onions offer a delightful added depth, enriching every bite of your pigs in blankets. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery with a cheesy topping, this warm addition is perfect for soaking up any leftover maple syrup. Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly drink offers a fruity sweetness that pairs remarkably well with savory bites, highlighting the festive vibes. Mini Cheesecakes: End the meal on a sweet note with these creamy desserts, providing a delightful contrast to the savory starters. Enjoy exploring these pairings that turn your Sticky Pigs in Blankets into an extraordinary feast! Sticky Pigs in Blankets Variations Get ready to personalize your Sticky Pigs in Blankets with these fun twists that add new flavor and texture for every festive gathering! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free sausages and bacon to create a delicious dish that everyone can enjoy without worry. Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes to the maple syrup before drizzling over the sausages for a delightful heat that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness. Herbed Sausage: Swap regular sausages for herby ones, like rosemary or thyme-flavored, for a flavorful twist on the classic recipe. Prosciutto Wrapper: For a gourmet experience, substitute streaky bacon with thinly sliced prosciutto, lending a distinct saltiness to these mini bites, adding a splash of elegance. Caramelized Onions: Incorporate a spoonful of caramelized onions under the bacon to bring a sweet and savory depth to each delightful mouthful. Maple Mustard Glaze: Mix maple syrup with a touch of Dijon mustard before drizzling; this adds a tangy twist that will have your guests coming back for more. Mixed Herbs: Instead of just sage, mix fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary into the sage for an herbaceous explosion that elevates the flavor profile. Slow Cooker Option: If you’re prepping for a party, try using a slow cooker! Just arrange the wrapped sausages inside, drizzle with syrup, and let them cook on low until heated and sticky. For more delicious appetizer ideas, don’t miss our roundup of top Christmas appetizers that’ll make your holiday feast sing! Expert Tips for Sticky Pigs in Blankets • Choose the Right Sausage: Select high-quality cocktail or chipolata sausages for the best flavor and size. Avoid large sausages, as they can make wrapping difficult. • Bacon Wrapping Technique: Wrap each sausage snugly with bacon, ensuring that the ends are tucked underneath. This ensures crispiness and minimizes unruly bacon edges. • Fresh Sage Importance: Don’t skip the sage! It adds a much-needed herby brightness, elevating the flavor profile and balancing the richness of the bacon in your Sticky Pigs in Blankets. • Watch the Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on your bites while they bake, as oven variations can alter cooking time. You want them golden brown and crispy, not overdone! • Make Ahead and Reheat: For party planning ease, prep these ahead of time, wrap and refrigerate, then cook just before serving. This keeps them fresh and delicious! Make Ahead Options These Sticky Pigs in Blankets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can wrap the sausages in bacon and sage up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully. Simply refrigerate the wrapped sausages until you’re ready to bake them. When it’s time to serve, preheat your oven or air fryer as directed, drizzle with maple syrup, and bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy and golden. This smart prep method allows you to enjoy the savory deliciousness of these Sticky Pigs in Blankets without any last-minute stress, making your festive gathering a breeze! How to Store and Freeze Sticky Pigs in Blankets Fridge: Store any leftover Sticky Pigs in Blankets in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help retain their delicious flavor and texture. Freezer: To freeze, place wrapped and cooked Sticky Pigs in Blankets in a single layer on a baking sheet, then cover and freeze for up to 3 months. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Then, bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Make-Ahead Tip: If you want to simplify party preparation, feel free to prepare these in advance. Just store them in the fridge and pop them in the oven right before your guests arrive! Sticky Pigs in Blankets Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right sausages? Absolutely! For the best results, opt for high-quality cocktail or chipolata sausages, which are perfectly sized for wrapping. If you can’t find these, large pork bangers can work, but cutting them into smaller pieces will make wrapping easier. How do I store leftovers properly? To keep your Sticky Pigs in Blankets fresh, simply place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their flavor and texture, ensuring you’re still able to enjoy their deliciousness! Can I freeze Sticky Pigs in Blankets? Yes, you can! To freeze, lay your cooked Sticky Pigs in Blankets in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and keep them frozen for up to 3 months. This allows for easy reheating anytime you’re craving tasty bites! How do I reheat frozen Sticky Pigs in Blankets? To reheat, thaw your frozen Sticky Pigs in Blankets overnight in the fridge. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), then arrange the bites on a baking tray and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until they are heated through and crispy. This method ensures they taste just as delightful as when first cooked! Are Sticky Pigs in Blankets gluten-free? Very! To keep this dish gluten-free, check the labels on your sausages and bacon for gluten content. Many brands now offer gluten-free options for both, allowing everyone at your gathering to indulge in these irresistible bites without worry. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, certainly! You can wrap the sausages and store them in the fridge for up to 48 hours before cooking. This make-ahead tip allows you to streamline your party preparation and pop them in the oven right before your guests arrive, ensuring they are fresh and hot when served! Sticky Pigs in Blankets with Maple and Sage Magic These Sticky Pigs in Blankets combine savory sausage and crispy bacon with a sweet maple glaze, creating an irresistible appetizer perfect for festive gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 piecesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: BritishCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sausages16 pieces Cocktail or Chipolata Sausages Bite-sized pieces are perfect for easy snacking.For the Bacon16 slices Thin-Cut Streaky Bacon Ensures optimal crispiness and flavor when wrapping the sausages.For the Herb Enhancement16 leaves Fresh Sage Leaves Adds a herby brightness to the dish.For the Glaze1/2 cup Maple Syrup Provides the sweet, sticky glaze.For Seasoning1 teaspoon Black Pepper Enhances the overall flavor profile. Equipment ovenBaking trayAir Fryer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F) or set your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).Take your cocktail or chipolata sausages and wrap each tightly with a strip of thin-cut streaky bacon. Place a fresh sage leaf atop each wrapped sausage.Drizzle them generously with maple syrup and sprinkle a pinch of black pepper over the top.Place your baking tray into the preheated oven or the air fryer basket. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the bacon is crispy and sausages are cooked through.Let them cool for a moment before transferring to a serving platter. Serve warm, ideally drizzled with extra maple syrup for dipping. Nutrition Serving: 2piecesCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 15gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesChoose high-quality sausages and ensure bacon is snugly wrapped around each sausage. Watch the cooking time closely to avoid overcooking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
