Gluten Free Pigs in a Blanket
Make perfect gluten free pigs in a blanket with flaky puff pastry! Easy recipe for parties, game day, or kid-friendly meals ready in 25 minutes.
You know what? The first time I served gluten free pigs in a blanket at a Super Bowl party, my friend’s husband grabbed three before I even finished arranging the platter. He had no idea they were gluten-free until I mentioned it—and honestly, that’s the biggest compliment any of us can get, right?
These golden, flaky bundles of joy prove that gluten free pigs in a blanket can be just as crispy and delicious as the traditional version. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering, prepping snacks for picky eaters, or just craving something warm and comforting, this recipe delivers every single time.
The best part? You only need five ingredients and about 25 minutes from start to finish. No complicated techniques, no fancy equipment—just simple, crowd-pleasing goodness that works for busy weeknights and special celebrations alike.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free puff pastry, defrosted | 1 box (I use Schar brand) |
| Gluten-free cocktail-sized sausages | 48 mini smoked sausages |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Water | 1 tablespoon |
| Coarse sea salt or sea salt flakes | To taste |
Optional Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce:
- Honey: 3 tablespoons
- Mayonnaise: 3 tablespoons
- Dijon mustard: 3 tablespoons
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the gluten-free puff pastry from its packaging and gently unfold it on a clean cutting board.
Step 2: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut each pastry sheet into 24 triangles—think of slicing a pizza into wedges. You’ll end up with 48 triangles total, one for each mini sausage.
Step 3: Place one cocktail sausage on the widest part of each triangle. Roll the pastry around the sausage, starting from the wide end and tucking the point underneath. The pastry should wrap snugly but not too tight—you want room for that beautiful golden puff.
Step 4: Whisk together the egg and water in a small bowl until completely combined. Brush this egg wash generously over each wrapped sausage, then sprinkle with coarse sea salt for extra flavor and that gorgeous bakery-style finish.
Step 5: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry turns a deep golden brown and feels crisp to the touch. While they’re baking, mix together honey, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl if you’re making the dipping sauce—or honestly, store-bought honey mustard works perfectly too.
Step 6: Let the gluten free mini pigs in a blanket cool for just 2-3 minutes before serving. They’ll be piping hot inside, so warn any eager snackers (especially little ones) to wait just a bit!
Substitutions
Pastry alternatives: If you can’t find Schar gluten-free puff pastry, Geefree brand also works beautifully for homemade gluten free pigs in a blanket. Some readers have had success with gluten-free pizza dough rolled thin, though the texture will be breadier rather than flaky.
Sausage swaps: Turkey or chicken cocktail sausages work wonderfully if you’re avoiding pork. Just make sure they’re certified gluten-free, as some brands sneak in wheat-based fillers. Vegetarian sausages can also work, though cooking time may need slight adjustment.
Dairy-free needs: Most gluten-free puff pastry brands are naturally dairy-free, but always double-check the label. The egg wash is essential for that golden color, but you can substitute with a mixture of dairy-free milk and a touch of maple syrup if needed.
Troubleshooting
Pastry not browning? Make sure you’re brushing on enough egg wash—it’s the secret to that gorgeous golden color. Also, check that your oven temperature is accurate; an oven thermometer can be a game-changer if your pigs in a blanket regularly come out pale.
Soggy bottoms? This usually means the pastry wasn’t fully defrosted or the oven wasn’t hot enough when you started baking. Always preheat completely, and make sure your pastry feels pliable but still cold to the touch.
Pastry unraveling during baking? Roll them a bit tighter and make sure to tuck that pointed end underneath before placing them on the baking sheet. A little overlap is your friend here—think snug, not strangled.
Storage and Meal Prep
Store leftover gluten free pigs in a blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore that crispy exterior—microwaving makes them soggy, so resist the temptation!
For meal prep magic, you can assemble these completely and freeze them unbaked on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding just 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Well… these gluten free pigs in a blanket are pretty perfect on their own, but pairing them with a few dipping sauces takes them over the top. Try the honey mustard from this recipe, plus ketchup, BBQ sauce, or ranch for variety.
Serve them alongside gluten-free skillet tater tot casserole for the ultimate game day spread. They’re also fantastic with a simple green salad or veggie tray to balance out the richness—especially when you’re feeding a crowd.
For a complete party menu, pair them with white bean turkey chili and watch both dishes disappear. Kids absolutely love dunking these in different sauces, making them ideal for birthday parties or after-school snacks.
Variations
Breakfast version: Swap the cocktail sausages for breakfast sausage links and serve with maple syrup for dipping. You could even drizzle them with gluten-free country sausage gravy for an indulgent brunch treat.
Cheese-stuffed option: Add a thin strip of cheddar or mozzarella alongside each sausage before rolling. Man, oh man, the melty cheese factor makes these absolutely irresistible, especially for kids who are hesitant about trying gluten-free versions.
Everything bagel twist: Instead of just sea salt, sprinkle the egg-washed pastries with everything bagel seasoning for an extra flavor boost. It adds a savory, garlicky dimension that adults especially love.
Spicy kick: Brush the sausages with a thin layer of hot sauce or sriracha before wrapping them in pastry. The heat mellows slightly during baking but still gives that pleasant warmth in every bite.
Gluten Free Pigs in a Blanket FAQs
Can you use gluten free puff pastry for pigs in a blanket?
Absolutely! Gluten-free puff pastry works beautifully for this recipe and creates that signature flaky, buttery texture everyone loves. Schar and Geefree are two brands that perform exceptionally well, giving you layers that puff up golden and crispy.
Can you get gluten free pigs in blankets?
Yes, though finding them ready-made in stores can be tricky. Making homemade gluten free pigs in a blanket is actually easier and more affordable than hunting for pre-made versions. Plus, you control exactly what goes into them, ensuring they’re truly safe for celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
What is a substitute for crescent rolls for pigs in a blanket?
Gluten-free puff pastry is the best substitute, giving you that light, flaky texture similar to crescent rolls. If you can’t find puff pastry, a thin gluten-free pizza dough works in a pinch, though the result will be more bread-like than flaky.
Can celiacs eat pigs in blankets?
Celiacs can safely enjoy pigs in a blanket when made with certified gluten-free pastry and sausages. Always verify that both ingredients are clearly labeled gluten-free, as some cocktail sausages contain wheat-based fillers. According to trusted gluten-free nutrition guidance, checking labels carefully is essential for anyone managing celiac disease.
What is a gluten free substitute for puff pastry?
If you can’t access gluten-free puff pastry, try rolling gluten-free pie crust very thin or using a gluten-free biscuit dough. These won’t give you the exact same flaky layers, but they’ll still create delicious, golden-wrapped sausages. Some bakers have success with homemade blends using rice flour and xanthan gum, as explained in this comprehensive gluten-free baking resource.
These gluten free pigs in a blanket prove that you don’t need to compromise on flavor or texture when cooking without gluten. They’re as light and fluffy as a cloud on the outside, savory and satisfying on the inside, and simple enough that even beginner cooks can nail them on the first try. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a birthday party, or just Tuesday night dinner, this recipe has your back!
Gluten Free Pigs in a Blanket
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Small bowl
- Fork or whisk
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box gluten-free puff pastry defrosted per package directions (Schar brand recommended)
- 48 gluten-free cocktail-sized sausages mini smoked sausages
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- coarse sea salt or sea salt flakes to taste
Optional Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the gluten-free puff pastry from its packaging and gently unfold it on a clean cutting board.
- Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut each pastry sheet into 24 triangles—think of slicing a pizza into wedges. You’ll end up with 48 triangles total, one for each mini sausage.
- Place one cocktail sausage on the widest part of each triangle. Roll the pastry around the sausage, starting from the wide end and tucking the point underneath. The pastry should wrap snugly but not too tight—you want room for that beautiful golden puff.
- Whisk together the egg and water in a small bowl until completely combined. Brush this egg wash generously over each wrapped sausage, then sprinkle with coarse sea salt for extra flavor and that gorgeous bakery-style finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry turns a deep golden brown and feels crisp to the touch. While they’re baking, mix together honey, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl if you’re making the dipping sauce—or honestly, store-bought honey mustard works perfectly too.
- Let the gluten free mini pigs in a blanket cool for just 2-3 minutes before serving. They’ll be piping hot inside, so warn any eager snackers (especially little ones) to wait just a bit!
