Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket are a fun and spicy twist on a classic snack! Imagine little sausages wrapped in soft, flaky dough with creamy cheese and a kick of jalapeno heat inside. They’re the perfect mix of gooey, spicy, and savory all wrapped up in every bite.
I love making these when friends come over because they’re always a crowd-pleaser. The jalapeno adds just enough spice to keep things interesting without being too wild, and the melty cheese inside makes every bite cozy. I usually sprinkle a bit of extra cheddar on top before baking to get that golden, crispy finish.
These little snacks are great served warm straight from the oven, especially with a side of ranch or your favorite dipping sauce. I like pairing them with a cold drink and some good company for an easy, no-fuss party treat. They’re perfect for game day, movie night, or whenever you want to spice up your usual pigs in a blanket!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This dough gives the blanket its soft, flaky texture. If you don’t find crescent rolls, puff pastry is a great substitute for a flakier, slightly crispier outside.
Mini Hot Dogs: I like cocktail sausages for their size and flavor. You can substitute with veggie dogs or chicken sausages for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
Cream Cheese & Cheddar: The cream cheese adds creaminess while sharp cheddar brings a nice tang. For a milder taste, try mozzarella, or use pepper jack for extra spice.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos bring the pop of heat here. If you prefer less spice, remove all seeds or swap for milder peppers like green bell peppers or poblano.
How Can I Get My Pigs in a Blanket Golden and Crispy?
Brushing the dough with an egg wash is the key to a gorgeous golden finish.
- Use a beaten egg for an even, shiny glaze.
- Brush each roll just before baking, focusing on the top and edges.
- A hot oven (around 375°F) helps the dough cook through and get crisp on the outside.
- Also, place the rolls seam side down to keep them closed and neat during baking.
This simple step makes your jalapeno popper pigs in a blanket look as good as they taste!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Mixing bowl – for combining the cheese, jalapenos, and seasonings smoothly.
- Small spoon or spreader – helpful for evenly spreading the cheese mixture onto the dough triangles.
- Pastry brush – to brush the egg wash onto the rolled dough for that golden shine.
- Knife and cutting board – for finely dicing the jalapenos and prepping other ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch hot dogs for sausage links or cheese-stuffed mini peppers for different textures and flavors.
- Add cooked bacon bits or chopped chives into the cheese mixture for extra smokiness and flavor.
- Use pepper jack or smoked cheddar instead of sharp cheddar for a spicier or more complex taste.
- Mix in some cooked, chopped spinach or bell peppers in the cheese filling for a veggie boost.
Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 mini hot dogs or cocktail sausages
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1-2 fresh jalapenos, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Optional: ranch or sour cream for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 12-15 minutes for baking. In just under 30 minutes, you can have warm, cheesy, and spicy pigs in a blanket ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, finely diced jalapenos, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
3. Prepare the Crescent Dough:
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles following the package guidelines.
4. Assemble the Pigs in a Blanket:
Spread a thin layer of the cheese and jalapeno mixture on each triangle. Place one mini hot dog at the wide end and roll it up toward the point, making sure the cheese stays inside.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Place the rolled pigs in a blanket seam side down on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to help them turn golden and shiny as they bake.
6. Bake and Serve:
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through. Let them cool slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if you’d like. Serve warm with ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Crescent Dough for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the dough completely in the fridge overnight before assembling your pigs in a blanket. This will make it easier to work with and help it bake evenly.
How Can I Make These Less Spicy?
Remove all the jalapeno seeds and membranes before dicing to reduce the heat. You can also substitute jalapenos with mild green bell peppers for a similar crunch without the spice.
Can I Prep These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pigs in a blanket, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, brush with egg wash and bake as directed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pigs in a blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy.