Introduction
If you’ve ever found yourself torn between a savory breakfast sausage and a sweet, gooey cinnamon roll, then Breakfast Pigs Cinnamon Sausage—often called “cinnamon roll pigs in a blanket”—is the perfect compromise. This clever creation wraps juicy breakfast sausage links in soft, cinnamon-scented dough, then bakes them to golden perfection. The result is a handheld breakfast treat that delivers both sweet and savory flavors in every bite, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for brunch, holiday mornings, or even a fun weekend breakfast with the kids.
What makes this dish so special is its effortless preparation and universal appeal. By using refrigerated cinnamon roll dough and pre-cooked sausage links, you can have a hot, satisfying breakfast on the table in under 30 minutes. The contrast of the buttery, cinnamon-laced dough with the savory, slightly spicy sausage creates a harmony that’s irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just looking for an easy morning indulgence, Breakfast Pigs Cinnamon Sausage is a versatile, comforting, and visually appealing option that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Beyond its delicious taste, this recipe is endlessly adaptable. You can customize the size, swap in different sausages, or experiment with dipping sauces and glazes. Serve them warm from the oven, drizzled with icing or maple syrup, and watch as everyone reaches for seconds. It’s the kind of breakfast that feels like a treat but is simple enough for everyday mornings—a true win-win in the kitchen.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate values, based on typical ingredients):
- Calories: 120–150 kcal
- Protein: 4–6g
- Carbohydrates: 15–20g
- Fat: 5–8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 250–350mg
Note: Values will vary depending on the brand of cinnamon roll dough and sausage used. For a lighter version, consider turkey sausage or reduced-sugar dough.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-count) tube refrigerated jumbo cinnamon roll dough (such as Pillsbury Grands!)
- 8 breakfast sausage links (fully cooked, or cook before wrapping)
- Premade cinnamon roll icing (from the dough package)
- Optional: maple syrup, for drizzling or dipping
- Optional: 1–2 tablespoons butter, for a homemade maple butter sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- If your sausage links are uncooked, cook them thoroughly in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease and let cool slightly.
- Open the tube of cinnamon roll dough and separate the rolls. Using a rolling pin or your hands, gently flatten each roll into a rectangle large enough to wrap around a sausage link. If the dough is sticky, place a piece of parchment paper on top while rolling for easier handling.
- Place one cooked sausage link on each flattened dough piece. Carefully wrap the dough around the sausage, pinching the seam closed to seal. Place each wrapped sausage seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.
- Remove from the oven and transfer the pigs in a blanket to a wire cooling rack. This helps prevent the bottoms from becoming soggy as they cool.
- While still warm, drizzle with the provided cinnamon roll icing. For extra indulgence, serve with maple syrup or a homemade maple butter sauce on the side for dipping.
Cooking Tips and Variations
For Best Results: Use jumbo cinnamon roll dough for easier wrapping and a better dough-to-sausage ratio. If using standard-size rolls, you may need to stretch the dough slightly or cut sausages in half for bite-sized versions. Always cook and drain sausage thoroughly before wrapping to avoid excess grease.
Variations: Swap breakfast sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try wrapping the dough around a plant-based sausage alternative. You can also experiment with different glazes—try a cream cheese frosting, a simple powdered sugar glaze, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
Dipping Sauces: Elevate your breakfast pigs by serving them with a homemade maple butter sauce (combine maple syrup, butter, and a pinch of cinnamon in a saucepan until warm and blended). Buttermilk syrup or a vanilla glaze also pair beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors.
Portion Control: For smaller, bite-sized treats, cut each sausage link in half and use smaller portions of dough. This is especially great for parties or kids’ breakfasts.
Presentation: Arrange your pigs in a blanket on a platter with small bowls of various dipping sauces. Garnish with fresh fruit or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Breakfast Pigs Cinnamon Sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 5–8 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the dough soggy. For best texture, reheat just before serving and drizzle with fresh icing or syrup.
If you’d like to prepare these in advance, you can assemble the unbaked pigs in a blanket and refrigerate them overnight. Bake as directed in the morning for a fresh, hot breakfast with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use uncooked sausage in this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to fully cook the sausage before wrapping it in dough. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess grease from making the dough soggy. Simply brown the sausages in a skillet, drain on paper towels, and let cool slightly before wrapping.
What if my cinnamon roll dough is too sticky to handle?
If the dough is sticky, lightly flour your hands and work surface, or place a piece of parchment paper on top of the dough while rolling it out. This makes it easier to flatten and wrap without tearing.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pigs in a blanket the night before, cover and refrigerate, then bake in the morning. You can also bake them ahead and reheat just before serving, though they’re best enjoyed fresh from the oven for optimal texture.
Are there any dairy-free or gluten-free options for this recipe?
Look for dairy-free or gluten-free refrigerated cinnamon roll dough, which is increasingly available at many grocery stores. Pair with your favorite gluten-free or plant-based sausage for a completely allergy-friendly version.
