There are few things more comforting than a warm, golden, flaky breakfast pastry stuffed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey melted cheese. That’s exactly what you get with Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket—a fun and hearty twist on the classic snack that takes it from party food to the ultimate morning meal.
These handheld delights combine everything we love about breakfast into one bite: buttery pastry or pancake wrap, savory sausage links, scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and sometimes a drizzle of syrup for that irresistible sweet-and-savory combo. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast spread, or as a grab-and-go school morning treat, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of pigs in a blanket, why the breakfast version is such a hit, step-by-step instructions, storage tips, variations, calorie content, and serving ideas. By the end, you’ll have a go-to recipe that’s easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing.
What Are Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket?
Traditionally, pigs in a blanket are small sausages wrapped in dough (like crescent rolls or pastry) and baked until golden. They’re typically served as appetizers at parties or game days.
The breakfast version takes that same concept and elevates it with breakfast-specific fillings:
Sausage links or patties
Scrambled eggs
Cheese (cheddar, American, or mozzarella)
Wrapped in crescent dough, puff pastry, biscuits, or pancakes
Some versions even include a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for sweetness. Think of it as a portable breakfast sandwich wrapped in flaky goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect grab-and-go meal – Kids and adults can enjoy them on busy mornings.
Customizable – Swap in bacon, ham, veggies, or different cheeses.
Make-ahead friendly – Prep the night before and bake in the morning.
Kid-approved – Fun to eat and easy to dip in ketchup, syrup, or ranch.
Crowd-pleaser – Great for brunch parties, potlucks, and holiday breakfasts.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make about 12 Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket:
For the Filling
12 breakfast sausage links (pork, chicken, or turkey)
4 large eggs, lightly beaten
¼ cup milk (for fluffy eggs)
1 tablespoon butter (for scrambling eggs)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or American cheese slices cut into strips)
For the Wrap
1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 oz) or
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed or
Homemade pancake batter (for pancake-style wraps)
For Finishing
1 egg yolk beaten with 1 teaspoon water (egg wash, optional, for golden finish if using pastry)
Maple syrup or honey, for dipping (optional)
Equipment Needed
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Nonstick skillet
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Rolling pin (if using puff pastry)
Pastry brush (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausages
Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Cook the breakfast sausage links until browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes).
Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
Melt butter in a skillet and pour in the egg mixture.
Cook on low heat, stirring gently, until soft scrambled (still slightly creamy, not dry).
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
If using crescent roll dough: Unroll and separate into 8 triangles, then press seams together to make 12 smaller rectangles.
If using puff pastry: Roll out and cut into 12 rectangles.
If using pancakes: Cook small thin pancakes about 4–5 inches wide to use as wraps.
Step 4: Assemble
Place a small scoop of scrambled eggs and a sprinkle of cheese onto each dough rectangle.
Lay a sausage link on top.
Roll tightly, tucking edges so the filling doesn’t spill.
Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush tops with egg wash if using pastry for shine.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm with maple syrup, ketchup, or hot sauce on the side for dipping.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: ~38 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 pig in a blanket)
Calories: ~215
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 420mg
Fiber: <1g
Sugar: 2g
(Values vary depending on dough and sausage type.)
Tips for the Best Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket
Use quality sausage – A well-seasoned breakfast sausage makes all the difference.
Don’t overcook eggs – Keep them soft since they’ll cook a bit more in the oven.
Seal edges well – Prevents cheese from leaking during baking.
Make mini versions – Use cocktail sausages for bite-sized appetizers.
Storage – Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best texture.
Variations
Bacon Lovers – Swap sausage for crispy bacon strips.
Veggie Version – Add sautéed peppers, spinach, or mushrooms with the eggs.
Sweet & Savory – Use pancake wraps instead of dough and drizzle with maple syrup.
Cheesy Upgrade – Mix cream cheese into the eggs before wrapping.
Spicy Kick – Use pepper jack cheese and spicy sausage.
Make-Ahead & Freezer Instructions
Make Ahead (Fridge) – Assemble the pigs in a blanket the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
Freezer Friendly – Bake, cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Transfer to freezer bags and store up to 2 months. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 12–15 minutes.
Serving Ideas
Breakfast Buffet – Pair with hash browns, fruit salad, and coffee.
Holiday Morning – Perfect for Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving breakfast.
Lunchbox Treat – Pack warm in a thermos for kids’ school lunches.
Party Food – Serve bite-sized versions as brunch appetizers.
The Story Behind Pigs in a Blanket
Pigs in a blanket date back to Europe, where small sausages wrapped in dough were a common pub snack. In America, they became popularized in the 1950s when crescent roll dough entered kitchens. The breakfast version is a uniquely American twist that reflects the love for hearty, portable breakfasts.
By adding eggs, cheese, and syrup, the dish merges the essence of a diner-style breakfast platter into a neat handheld form. It’s the perfect example of how American cuisine reinvents classics into fun, comfort-driven meals.
Final Thoughts
Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket are the ultimate comfort breakfast meets finger food. They’re golden, flaky, cheesy, and bursting with flavor in every bite. The sweet-and-savory combination makes them irresistible, and the best part is how simple they are to make.
Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven with maple syrup, prep them ahead for a busy morning, or serve them at a festive brunch table, they’re guaranteed to become a family favorite.
