Quick Answer
Yes, it is possible to get gluten-free pigs in blankets. Gluten-free pigs in blankets can be made by using gluten-free hot dog sausages wrapped in gluten-free puff pastry. There are a variety of store-bought gluten-free sausage and gluten-free puff pastry options available to create homemade gluten-free pigs in blankets. They can also sometimes be found pre-made and sold as gluten-free pigs in blankets.
What are pigs in blankets?
Pigs in blankets are a classic appetizer or side dish that consist of small sausages wrapped in pastry. The most common version is hot dogs wrapped in croissant or puff pastry dough and baked until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
Some key features of traditional pigs in blankets include:
- Small hot dogs or mini smoked sausages as the “pig”
- Flaky, buttery pastry like croissant or puff pastry as the “blanket”
- Pastry wrapped around the sausage and baked
- Served warm right out of the oven
The appetizing combination of flavorful sausage with tender, flaky pastry makes pigs in blankets a hit at parties and potlucks. They also sometimes go by the name “devils on horseback” or “kilted sausages”.
Are traditional pigs in blankets gluten-free?
Traditional pigs in blankets made with regular hot dogs and regular puff pastry or croissant dough are not gluten-free. Here are the reasons why:
- Most hot dog sausages contain gluten as a binding agent
- Croissant and puff pastry doughs are made from wheat flour, which contains gluten
So unless you can find gluten-free hot dogs and use gluten-free puff pastry, traditional pigs in blankets recipes are not suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Gluten-free diet concerns
For people following a gluten-free diet for medical reasons like celiac disease, it is important to avoid even small amounts of gluten. Consuming gluten can damage the small intestine and cause gastrointestinal symptoms like pain, bloating, and diarrhea.
So for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, it’s important to find truly gluten-free pigs in blanket options that do not contain any wheat, barley, rye or contaminated oat ingredients.
Can you make gluten-free pigs in blankets?
Yes, there are a few different ways to make homemade gluten-free pigs in blankets:
Option 1: Gluten-free hot dogs & gluten-free puff pastry
The most straightforward method is to use:
- Gluten-free hot dog sausages
- Gluten-free puff pastry
Some brands of gluten-free hot dogs to look for include Applegate, Boar’s Head, Hebrew National, Niman Ranch, Tofurky, and Wellshire.
For the puff pastry, there are several widely available gluten-free brands such as Dufour, Pepperidge Farm, and Schar.
Just wrap the sausages in puff pastry slices, bake, and enjoy!
Option 2: Corn dogs
Another easy gluten-free idea is to make corn dog pigs in blankets. For this, you need:
- Gluten-free hot dogs
- Corn dog batter
Dip the hot dogs in corn dog batter and fry or bake them until the batter is cooked and slightly crispy on the outside. The corn batter will wrap around the hot dog to create a “blanket” effect.
You can find gluten-free corn dog batter mixes online or make your own simple batter with cornmeal, corn flour, milk, eggs, baking powder, and salt.
Option 3: Gluten-free crescent roll dough
For a flaky pastry option, use:
- Gluten-free hot dogs
- Gluten-free crescent roll dough
Roll out the crescent roll dough flat and cut it into strips. Wrap the strips around the sausages and bake until golden brown. Brands like Immaculate Baking and Pillsbury offer gluten-free crescent roll dough.
Can you buy gluten-free pigs in blankets?
Yes, there are more and more store-bought options for gluten-free pigs in blankets becoming available. Here are some places to find them:
Grocery stores
Some grocery stores now sell frozen gluten-free pigs in blankets in the freezer section. Popular brands to look out for include Applegate, Hormel, and Wellshire Farms. They are made with gluten-free hot dogs wrapped in gluten-free pastry dough.
You just need to bake them straight from frozen until hot and flaky. This is the quickest and easiest way to get gluten-free pigs in blankets!
Online stores and delivery
There are several online retailers that ship gluten-free pigs in blankets nationwide:
- Amazon.com – Carries multiple brands of frozen gluten-free pigs in blankets
- BlueApron.com – Meal kit company that sometimes offers gluten-free pigs in blankets
- Goldbelly.com – Ships gluten-free pigs in blankets from famous restaurants around the country
- Schars.com – Schar is a popular gluten-free brand that sells items online
Ordering online is convenient if you can’t find gluten-free options in local stores. Just make sure to check the ingredients carefully.
Restaurants
Some restaurants like buffets, caterers, and pub food eateries offer gluten-free pigs in blanket appetizers. Call ahead to ask about gluten-free menu options or check their allergen guides online. Chances are greater at restaurants that focus on gluten-free foods.
Gluten-free pigs in blankets recipe
Here is a delicious recipe to make gluten-free pigs in blankets at home:
Ingredients
- 8 gluten-free hot dogs
- 1 package (10 oz) gluten-free puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tsp water (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut each gluten-free hot dog diagonally into 4 equal pieces.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a 10×12 inch rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into twelve 1-inch wide strips.
- Wrap each hot dog piece with a pastry strip and place seam side down on the baking sheet. Brush with egg wash.
- If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top. Bake for 18-20 minutes until pasty is golden brown.
- Let cool 5 minutes before serving warm.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per Serving (1 pig in a blanket):
| Calories | 90 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 5g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Protein | 3g |
Tips for making gluten-free pigs in blankets
Here are some helpful tips and tricks for getting perfect gluten-free pigs in blankets every time:
- Read ingredient labels carefully to ensure all components are gluten-free
- Use hot dogs that are already fully cooked so they just need warming
- Cut hot dogs diagonally to get more pieces from each one
- Roll puff pastry very thin so it gets flaky and crispy
- Seal the seam tightly so filling doesn’t leak out
- Bake at 400°F on parchment paper for even browning
- Serve warm right away for the best texture and flavor
- Garnish with sesame seeds, ketchup, honey mustard or other condiments
Do gluten free pigs in blankets taste different?
Gluten-free pigs in blankets made with quality ingredients can taste just as delicious as traditional versions. The gluten-free hot dogs and puff pastry have come a long way.
When made with care using flavorful meats and real butter, the gluten-free puff pastry can get light and flaky just like regular pastry. The sausages give savory, smoky flavor.
That said, gluten-free products can vary in quality and texture. The differences are usually very subtle, and most people enjoy gluten-free pigs in blankets. But for some, it may not taste exactly the same as what they remember.
The pickled, spiced flavor of the hot dog paired with the tender, buttery pastry still makes for an irresistible gluten-free appetizer!
Are there benefits to gluten-free pigs in blankets?
For those who must follow a gluten-free diet, having tasty gluten-free options like pigs in blankets available allows them to still enjoy traditional comfort foods. This helps with social activities and improves quality of life.
Beyond that, some potential benefits of choosing gluten-free pigs in blankets include:
- More digestibility – Gluten-free foods may be easier to digest for those sensitive
- Nutritional perks – Some gluten-free products have added protein, fiber, vitamins
- Variety – It increases meal options and prevents boredom with the diet
- Peace of mind – No need to worry about reaction from accidentally consuming gluten
For people without medical requirements, gluten-free pigs in blankets offer a fun alternative but no significant health advantage.
Common questions about gluten-free pigs in blankets
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Are pork sausages gluten free?
Plain pork sausage meat without fillers or thickeners is typically gluten-free. However, some flavored sausages contain gluten as an added binding agent. Check labels to be sure.
What can I use instead of puff pastry?
Alternatives include gluten-free phyllo dough, pie crust, crescent roll dough or cornbread. You can also make quick blankets by wrapping sausages in bacon strips.
Can I microwave gluten-free pigs in blankets?
Yes, you can microwave frozen gluten-free pigs in blankets to reheat them. They may not get as crispy, but it’s faster. Microwave in 30 second intervals until hot.
How long do they last in the freezer?
Homemade pigs in blankets last 2-3 months in the freezer. Store-bought frozen ones last until the expiration date, usually 8-12 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
What’s the best dipping sauce?
Popular dipping sauces include honey mustard, sweet & sour sauce, barbecue sauce, warm cheese sauce, ketchup, and ranch dressing. Get creative with your favorite flavors!
Conclusion
Gluten-free pigs in blankets are a great way for anyone on a gluten-free diet to still enjoy this favorite party food. With so many gluten-free sausage and dough options now available, you can make or purchase tasty gluten-free pigs in blankets that are delicious and safe.
From using gluten-free puff pastry or crescent rolls to corn dog batter blankets, the blanket wrapping possibilities are endless. With some adjustments to traditional recipes and ingredient swaps, gluten-free pigs in blankets can taste fantastic. They offer the same irresistible flavor combo in a gluten-free form.
