Irresistibly Sticky Pigs In Blankets

Save this recipe on:

There’s something truly magical about the combination of smoky bacon and juicy cocktail sausages — but when they’re coated in a glossy, sticky glaze, they become utterly irresistible. These Sticky Pigs in Blankets elevate the classic holiday favorite into a star appetizer or side dish you’ll be dreaming about long after the plate is clean. Sweet, savory, salty, and just a touch spicy, this version packs layers of flavor in every bite, thanks to a luscious glaze made from honey, mustard, and brown sugar.

Perfectly roasted until caramelized and glistening, these little bites are crisp on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with umami. Whether you serve them at a festive gathering, holiday dinner, or even as a bold brunch side, these sticky pigs in blankets are guaranteed to disappear fast.

---

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Pigs In Blankets Recipe

• Next-Level Flavor: The glaze brings a sweet-and-savory kick that sets this apart from traditional versions.
• Crowd Favorite: These are always the first to go at any party or dinner table — guaranteed.
• Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep and simple ingredients, yet the final result tastes gourmet.
• Versatile: Serve them as a starter, snack, side, or even part of a decadent breakfast.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance and bake when ready for stress-free entertaining.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

(Essential Tools and Equipment + Why They Matter)

Before you dive into making Sticky Pigs in Blankets, having the right tools on hand will make things smoother, cleaner, and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Baking Tray with a Wire Rack: Elevating the sausages allows heat to circulate evenly, giving you crisp bacon on all sides without the need to flip halfway through.
• Parchment Paper or Foil: Lining the tray makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the glaze from burning onto your pan.
• Pastry Brush or Spoon: For glazing the sausages evenly without soaking them. A brush gives you more control.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for preparing the sticky glaze. A medium-sized bowl is perfect for whisking the ingredients together.
• Tongs: Handy for wrapping bacon around sausages and placing them on the tray without making a mess.
• Oven Mitts and Timer: Since this recipe requires careful roasting to avoid over-caramelization, a timer helps you stay on point.

---

Preparation Tips

To ensure these Sticky Pigs in Blankets turn out perfectly every time, keep these preparation pointers in mind:

• Use Thin-Cut Streaky Bacon: It crisps up beautifully and wraps tightly around the sausages without overpowering them.
• Let the Bacon Sit at Room Temperature: Cold bacon can be stiff and may tear or unravel when wrapping. Let it soften slightly for easier handling.
• Secure the Wraps: If your bacon tends to unwrap during cooking, use a toothpick to secure it — just remember to remove them before serving.
• Make the Glaze in Advance: This helps the flavors develop and saves you time when you’re ready to assemble.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Tray: Leave a little space between each pig so they crisp up nicely and don’t steam.
• Glaze in Layers: Apply a light coating before baking and another midway through for a deep, sticky finish.

---

Ingredients for This Sticky Pigs In Blankets Recipe

To create these glossy, caramelized bites of joy, you’ll only need a handful of ingredients — but each one plays a key role in bringing out the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pigs in Blankets:

• 24 cocktail sausages (pork or plant-based)
• 12 rashers of streaky bacon, halved (thin-cut, for crispier results)
• Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)

For the Sticky Glaze:

• 3 tablespoons honey – brings that luscious sticky sweetness
• 2 tablespoons wholegrain mustard – adds depth and texture
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – for a smoother, sharper tang
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – caramelizes beautifully in the oven
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – balances sweetness with savory umami
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – just a hint of heat to round it all out

Optional Add-Ins:

• A dash of chili flakes – if you want a subtle kick
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar – for extra richness and balance

---

Step-by-Step: How to Make Sticky Pigs In Blankets

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) or 180°C (fan). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top if you have one — this helps the bacon crisp evenly.

---

Step 2: Wrap the Sausages

Slice each bacon rasher in half. Wrap one half around each cocktail sausage, starting at one end and spiraling to the other. Place the wrapped sausages seam-side down on the rack or lined tray.

---

Step 3: Mix the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, wholegrain mustard, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, soy sauce, and black pepper until well combined. If using, add chili flakes or balsamic vinegar for an extra punch.

---

Step 4: Glaze Before Baking

Using a pastry brush or spoon, lightly coat each bacon-wrapped sausage with a bit of the glaze. Don’t drown them — just enough to coat.

---

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then remove, glaze again generously, and return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the glaze is bubbling and sticky.

---

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Once out of the oven, let them rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle over fresh thyme leaves for a fragrant finish, and transfer to a serving platter. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

---

Notes

• Double the Glaze: If you’re a fan of extra saucy bites, consider doubling the glaze recipe and serving some on the side for dipping.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Assemble and glaze the pigs up to a day in advance. Just store them covered in the fridge and bake when ready.
• Custom Flavors: You can easily tweak the glaze — maple syrup instead of honey, or spicy mustard instead of Dijon — to match your preferences.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the Tray: Giving the sausages space ensures even cooking and crispy bacon. Cramming them in causes steaming, not roasting.
• Using Thick-Cut Bacon: It takes too long to cook and may end up chewy instead of crisp.
• Skipping the Second Glaze: Applying the glaze again halfway through baking builds a beautiful, lacquered finish that’s hard to resist.
• Not Drying the Sausages: Pat them dry before wrapping to help the glaze stick and prevent sogginess.
• Forgetting the Toothpicks (When Needed): Some bacon may unravel during cooking if it’s not secured properly — especially if cut unevenly.
• Serving Too Cold: These are best enjoyed warm. If they cool too much, you can reheat them for a few minutes in the oven to bring back the texture.

---

What to Serve With Sticky Pigs In Blankets?

These rich, caramelized bites are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with all kinds of dishes — from festive mains to casual snacks. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or a cozy weekend spread, here are some perfect pairings.

8 Recommendations:

1. Roast Turkey or Chicken
   The sweet-savory glaze complements roast poultry perfectly — ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
   Silky mash balances the sticky richness with a soft, buttery base.
3. Mac and Cheese
   A comforting classic that pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon and bold glaze.
4. Green Beans Almondine
   A lighter, crisp side that adds freshness and contrast to the sticky bites.
5. Mini Yorkshire Puddings
   Serve inside or alongside for a fun, British-inspired twist.
6. Buttery Dinner Rolls or Brioche Buns
   Make mini sliders or simply use the bread to mop up any extra glaze.
7. Cranberry Sauce
   The tartness balances the sweet glaze and adds festive flair.
8. Fried or Poached Eggs
   Add them to a brunch spread with eggs for a salty-sweet breakfast hit.

---

Storage Instructions

Sticky Pigs in Blankets store surprisingly well — which is great if you’re planning ahead or dealing with leftovers (though they’re rarely around for long!).

• Refrigeration: Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the bacon.
• Freezing (Before Baking): Assemble and glaze, then place on a tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 5–7 minutes to cooking time.
• Freezing (After Baking): Cool fully, freeze in a single layer, and reheat in the oven from frozen or thawed.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per 2 Pieces)

Note: Values may vary depending on sausage and bacon brand used.

• Calories: 190 kcal
• Protein: 7 g
• Fat: 13 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Sugars: 7 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 25 mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Sticky Pigs in Blankets ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and glaze them up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the fridge and bake fresh when needed for best results.

---

2. What kind of sausages should I use?

Cocktail sausages (pork or plant-based) work best due to their size. Just make sure they’re pre-cooked if the recipe doesn’t include extended baking time.

---

3. Can I use turkey bacon or vegan bacon?

Absolutely. Turkey bacon is leaner but less crispy. Vegan bacon works too — just keep an eye on cooking times, as plant-based alternatives may brown faster.

---

4. Is the glaze very sweet?

It’s sweet and savory, but not overly sugary. You can adjust the glaze by reducing honey or sugar slightly if you prefer a more balanced flavor.

---

5. Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 180°C (350°F) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping once and glazing halfway through. Don’t overcrowd the basket.

---

6. What can I do if my bacon won’t stay wrapped?

Use toothpicks to secure the ends. Place them seam-side down to help keep the wrap in place as they cook.

---

7. How do I keep them warm for a party?

Place them in a low oven (around 100°C/210°F) covered loosely with foil, or use a warming tray or slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting.

---

8. Can I make a spicy version?

Definitely! Add chili flakes, a splash of hot sauce, or even chipotle paste to the glaze for a smoky-spicy twist.

---

Conclusion

These Sticky Pigs in Blankets are more than just a holiday side — they’re a versatile, flavor-packed crowd-pleaser that fits almost any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy brunch, as part of a holiday roast, or simply indulging in a savory snack, this glazed upgrade on the classic delivers big satisfaction with minimal effort. Simple to prep, wildly addictive, and always a hit — it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: