Description

These Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket are a delightful and whimsical twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Imagine fluffy, golden pancakes embracing savory breakfast sausage links – a match made in breakfast heaven! This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a fun and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weekend brunches, quick weekday breakfasts, or even a playful snack. They are easy to customize and endlessly appealing, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. Forget the ordinary; this recipe brings a little joy and a whole lot of flavor to your morning routine.

Why you will love this recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for novice cooks. The batter comes together in minutes, and the cooking process is straightforward. Secondly, the combination of sweet pancakes and savory sausage is simply irresistible. The contrasting flavors create a symphony of taste that will have you coming back for more. Furthermore, these little bundles of joy are highly customizable. You can add fruit, chocolate chips, or spices to the pancake batter to create endless variations. They are also portable, making them ideal for on-the-go breakfasts or lunchbox treats. And finally, let’s not forget the sheer fun factor! Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket are undeniably cute and playful, adding a touch of whimsy to your meal. They are guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of everyone who tries them. It’s comfort food redefined with a playful presentation! They are freezer-friendly, perfect for batch cooking on the weekend to enjoy a quick and delicious breakfast throughout the week. The versatility of this recipe, coupled with its simplicity and delightful taste, makes it a definite winner in any kitchen.

Ingredients:

▢12 cooked breakfast sausage links
▢1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
▢2 tablespoons granulated sugar
▢4 teaspoons baking powder
▢½ teaspoon fine sea salt
▢1 ⅓ cups buttermilk
▢1 large egg, well beaten
▢4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
▢1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation:

Step 1: Begin by cooking the breakfast sausage links according to the package instructions. Whether you prefer pan-frying, baking, or microwaving, ensure the sausages are fully cooked and heated through. Once cooked, set them aside to keep warm while you prepare the pancake batter. This step is crucial because you’ll need to wrap the sausages while the pancakes are still hot and pliable.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Ensure the ingredients are well combined to evenly distribute the leavening agent (baking powder), which will result in light and fluffy pancakes. The sugar adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory flavor of the sausage, while the salt enhances the overall taste.

Step 3: In a separate small bowl, prepare the wet ingredients. Whisk together 1 ⅓ cups of buttermilk, 1 large egg (well beaten), 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter (melted), and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and contributes to the tenderness of the pancakes. The beaten egg helps to bind the ingredients together, while the melted butter adds richness and moisture. The vanilla extract provides a subtle hint of sweetness and enhances the aroma of the pancakes.

Step 4: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough pancakes. It is okay if there are still some small lumps in the batter. Let the batter sit for about 5 minutes before cooking. This allows the gluten in the flour to relax, resulting in a more tender pancake.

Step 5: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent the pancakes from sticking. For each pancake, pour approximately 3 tablespoons of the batter onto the hot skillet. Gently spread out the batter into a round shape. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles start to appear on the surface of the pancake and the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the other side is also golden brown. The key is to cook the pancakes until they are lightly browned but still pliable enough to wrap around the sausage.

Step 6: Immediately after removing a pancake from the skillet, place it on a plate. Place a cooked sausage link in the center of the pancake. Roll the pancake tightly around the sausage link, creating a “pig in a blanket.” Place the rolled pancake on a plate, seam-side down, to help it maintain its shape. Repeat this process with the remaining batter and sausage links. It’s essential to roll the pancakes while they are still hot, as they become less pliable as they cool.

Step 7: Serve the Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket immediately. You can drizzle them with syrup, or serve them with a small bowl of syrup for dipping. They are also delicious with other breakfast accompaniments like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

COOKING Rating:

Easy

Serving Suggestions:

Classic Syrup: Drizzle with maple syrup or your favorite pancake syrup for a traditional and comforting taste.
Berry Bliss: Serve with a side of fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) and a dollop of whipped cream for a refreshing and vibrant twist.
Savory Delight: Offer alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, or a side of cheese sauce for a more substantial breakfast meal.
Sweet and Spicy: Pair with a drizzle of hot honey or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors.
Nutty Indulgence: Serve with chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds) and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent treat.

Tips:

Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough pancakes. Stir until just combined, leaving a few lumps.
Keep the Pancakes Warm: Place cooked pancakes in a warm oven (about 200°F) while you finish cooking the rest of the batch. This will keep them pliable for wrapping.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pancake, reduce the amount of sugar in the batter.
Add Flavor: Experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon extract to add a unique flavor to the pancakes.
Make Them Ahead: Cook the pancakes and sausages separately, then wrap them just before serving. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Freezing for Later: Allow the assembled pigs in a blanket to cool completely. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Sausage Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of breakfast sausage. Maple-flavored sausage, spicy sausage, or even vegetarian sausage alternatives all work well.
Pancake Size Matters: Adjust the amount of batter you use per pancake to create the ideal size for wrapping your sausage links. Smaller pancakes will be easier to roll neatly.
Customize the Batter: Incorporate additions like chocolate chips, blueberries, bananas, or spices (such as cinnamon or nutmeg) into the pancake batter for added flavor and texture.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes

Nutritional Information:

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Calories: 207kcal
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 310mg

Conclusion

Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket offer a delightful and playful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. With their combination of fluffy pancakes and savory sausage, they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. The recipe is simple, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, from weekend brunches to quick weekday breakfasts. Whether you are looking for a fun and easy meal or a way to add a little joy to your morning routine, these Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket are a fantastic choice. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to enjoy a breakfast experience that is both delicious and memorable!

Question and Answers:

Q1: Can I use a different type of flour for the pancakes?

A: Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with other types of flour, such as whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. Keep in mind that using whole wheat flour will result in a slightly denser pancake with a nuttier flavor. If using gluten-free flour, be sure to choose a blend specifically designed for baking, as it will contain the necessary binding agents to achieve a good texture. The texture and the cooking time might need to be adjusted.

Q2: Can I make the pancake batter ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the pancake batter up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook the pancakes, give the batter a gentle stir, and if it seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk or buttermilk to reach the desired consistency. Letting the batter rest in the fridge can actually improve the texture of the pancakes, making them even more tender.

Q3: What’s the best way to reheat leftover Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket?

A: The best way to reheat leftover Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket is in the microwave or oven. For the microwave, wrap one or two in a paper towel and heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the pigs in a blanket on a baking sheet, and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving is quicker, but the oven will help retain the crispness of the pancake.

Q4: How do I prevent the pancakes from sticking to the skillet?

A: To prevent the pancakes from sticking, make sure your skillet is properly preheated before adding the batter. A non-stick skillet is ideal, but even with a non-stick surface, it’s a good idea to lightly grease the pan with cooking spray or a small amount of butter or oil. Also, avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook the pancakes in batches to ensure they have enough room to spread out and cook evenly.

Q5: Can I add fruit or chocolate chips to the pancake batter?

A: Absolutely! Adding fruit or chocolate chips to the pancake batter is a great way to customize this recipe to your liking. Gently fold in the desired amount of fruit (such as blueberries, raspberries, or diced bananas) or chocolate chips after the batter is mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the batter. Using mini chocolate chips will help them distribute more evenly throughout the pancakes.