The holiday season always inspires me to get creative in the kitchen, especially when I’m anticipating friends and family gathering around my table. Recently, a delightful mix of flavors and festive flair captured my imagination, leading to my new favorite treat: the Festive Candy Cane Chicken Sausage Blanket.
Imagine the satisfying crunch of golden pastry wrapped around tender, seasoned chicken sausage, all presented in a charming candy cane shape. Not only are these bites visually appealing, but the savory aroma wafting through my kitchen while they bake is pure magic. I love that this recipe is incredibly easy—perfect for busy holiday schedules or spontaneous gatherings. Plus, you can customize your dipping sauces to create a unique twist that suits your guests’ tastes.
So, put those takeout menus away, and let’s unwrap a delicious holiday surprise that will leave everyone craving more!
Why You'll Love This Festive Candy Cane Chicken Sausage Blanket
- This recipe is a breeze to make, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or busy holiday schedules.
- The delightful candy cane shape adds a fun and festive flair that will impress your guests and make any occasion special.
- With its savory chicken sausage wrapped in golden pastry, the flavor combination is irresistible and sure to please everyone around the table.
- Additionally, the versatility of pairing it with a variety of dipping sauces allows you to tailor the experience to suit different tastes, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Festive Candy Cane Chicken Sausage Blanket Ingredients
Get ready to create something special with these key ingredients!
For the Sausage
• Fully cooked chicken sausage – Choose your favorite flavor; it adds great taste and convenience!
For the Dough
• Refrigerated crescent dough or puff pastry – This gives you that lovely, flaky texture in the blanket.
For the Egg Wash
• Egg – Helps achieve a beautiful golden color when baked.
• Milk – Mixing this with the egg creates a luscious glaze for the dough.
For the Spice Blend
• Garlic powder – Adds a savory kick that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• Onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile for a delightful taste.
• Salt – A crucial element that brings all the flavors together.
• Pepper – Adds just the right amount of warmth and zing.
For the Finishing Touches
• Sesame seeds – Use these for added crunch and a touch of nuttiness.
• Everything bagel seasoning – Sprinkle this on for an extra layer of flavor and surprise!
• Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) – These brighten up the dish and add a fresh element.
For Serving
• Honey mustard or dipping sauces – Perfect for dipping and enhancing your festive candy cane chicken sausage blanket experience!
How to Make Festive Candy Cane Chicken Sausage Blanket
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and take a moment to line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring your treats bake perfectly without sticking.
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Cut each fully cooked chicken sausage into 3–4 equal pieces. This allows for easy wrapping in the pastry while helping them fit perfectly on the baking sheet!
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Unroll the crescent dough or puff pastry and cut it into thin strips. These strips will serve as the delightful wrapping for your sausages, adding a flaky texture.
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Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper onto the dough strips. This step infuses your pastry with fantastic flavors that marry beautifully with the chicken sausage.
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Wrap each sausage piece diagonally with the dough, leaving small gaps in between to mimic those charming candy cane stripes. It’s a fun and creative step that makes these treats a feast for the eyes!
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Curve one end of each wrapped sausage to form the iconic candy cane hook. This whimsical touch is what gives your treats their festive appeal!
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Beat the egg together with the milk, then brush this mixture lightly over the dough for that glossy, golden result. Trust me, this step is key for achieving that show-stopping shine!
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Bake for 12–15 minutes until they’re puffy, golden, and crisp. The aroma filling your kitchen during this time will be irresistible!
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Cool slightly before serving, and present the festive candy cane chicken sausage blankets with a side of ketchup, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauces for a delightful pairing.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Festive Candy Cane Chicken Sausage Blanket
Fridge: Store leftover festive candy cane chicken sausage blankets in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked sausage blankets in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen sausage blankets directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
Room Temperature: If you’re serving at a party, they can be left out for about 2 hours, but be sure to store leftovers as needed to maintain freshness!
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Candy Cane Chicken Sausage Blankets are an excellent choice for meal prep! You can prepare the sausage and dough ahead of time—simply cut the sausages into pieces and wrap them in the dough, then place them on a lined baking sheet. Cover gently and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. For even more convenience, you can freeze the wrapped treats for up to 3 months; just be sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, preheat your oven and brush with egg wash before baking as instructed for freshly baked goodness that’s just as delicious!
What to Serve with Festive Candy Cane Chicken Sausage Blanket?
Create a delightful spread for your next gathering that complements the festive appeal of these charming treats.
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Crispy Vegetables: Serve a variety of colorful, crunchy veggies. Their freshness adds a delightful contrast to the warm sausage blankets.
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Creamy Spinach Dip: A rich, creamy dip pairs perfectly for a flavorful contrast. It’s a delightful way to keep the celebration lively!
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Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of crispy sweet potato fries provides an exciting flavor twist. Their crispy exterior and soft interior are irresistible.
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Garlicky Green Beans: These vibrant green beans bring a fresh taste that balances the savory sausage. Toss them with garlic for added zest!
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Festive Salad: Combine mixed greens, cranberries, and nuts for a refreshing side. The sweetness and crunch elevate the entire meal experience!
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Mulled Apple Cider: Warm and fragrant, this cozy drink is the perfect companion. It complements the savory flavors, making everything feel more festive.
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Chocolate Covered Pretzels: As a sweet ending, these treats offer a delightful salty-sweet contrast. They’re a fun way to wrap up your gathering!
Festive Candy Cane Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious alternatives to make your festive candy cane chicken sausage blanket even more delightful!
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Cheese-Stuffed: Add a small piece of cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar) inside each sausage before wrapping for a gooey surprise.
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Spicy Twist: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes onto the dough for an extra kick! This variation will warm you up, adding both excitement and flavor.
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Veggie Loaded: Swap a few chicken sausages for your favorite veggie sausage to make this a plant-based treat. Pair it with a tasty dip made from Greek yogurt and herbs for extra zest.
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Sweet & Savory: Brush a little honey or maple syrup on the dough before wrapping the sausage for a delightful sweet twist that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
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Herbed Bliss: Infuse even more flavor by adding a finely chopped mixture of fresh herbs (like rosemary and thyme) directly to the dough strips. This will elevate the taste while giving a lovely aroma.
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Holiday Seasoning: Instead of everything bagel seasoning, try using a blend of dried cranberries and walnuts for a festive crunch that complements the savory sausage.
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Dipping Delight: Experiment with different dipping sauces like sriracha mayo or a cranberry jalapeño relish for a flavorful range that suits everyone’s tastes.
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Mini Bites: For a fun party-sized option, cut the sausages and dough into smaller pieces, creating bite-size treats perfect for grazing at holiday gatherings. They’ll be a hit!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing the Festive Candy Cane Chicken Sausage Blanket, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature to achieve that perfect golden color.
- A common mistake is not cutting the sausage evenly, so be sure to slice each link into uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
- Consider using a blend of fresh herbs as a final garnish to elevate the presentation and flavor of your dish.
- For best results, keep an eye on the baking time and remove the treats once they are golden brown to avoid overcooking.
Festive Candy Cane Chicken Sausage Blanket Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken sausage?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken sausage, look for options that are fully cooked and labeled as made with high-quality ingredients. Ideally, opt for sausages without added fillers or preservatives to ensure a flavorful and healthier choice. You can even pick different flavors, like apple or jalapeño, for a unique twist that can surprise your guests!
How long can I store leftover candy cane chicken sausage blankets?
You can store your leftover festive candy cane chicken sausage blankets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up to maintain their texture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy them as a quick snack or appetizer!
What’s the best way to freeze these sausage blankets?
For freezing, first bake the sausage blankets and allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer for about 2 hours until they’re firm. After that, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date for reference, and you’ll have these tasty treats ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen candy cane chicken sausage blankets?
To reheat frozen sausage blankets effectively, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sausage blankets on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re heated through and regain their crispiness. This method keeps them looking and tasting freshly baked, ensuring your guests will enjoy every bite!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Very! To create a gluten-free version of the festive candy cane chicken sausage blanket, simply substitute the regular crescent dough or puff pastry with a gluten-free alternative available at your local grocery store. Many brands make great options that will still deliver the flaky texture you desire. Just be sure to check for any allergens if you’re serving guests with specific dietary restrictions.
How long can I leave these out at room temperature?
If you’re serving these delicious treats at a party, the candy cane chicken sausage blankets can safely stay out at room temperature for about 2 hours. However, if you have leftovers, it’s best to refrigerate them promptly to maintain freshness and avoid any food safety issues. Enjoy your gatherings with peace of mind!
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Sausage
- 1 package Fully cooked chicken sausage Choose your favorite flavor
For the Dough
- 1 package Refrigerated crescent dough or puff pastry
For the Egg Wash
- 1 large Egg For glazing
- 1 tablespoon Milk To mix with egg
For the Spice Blend
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Pepper
For the Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons Sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons Everything bagel seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme)
For Serving
- ½ cup Honey mustard or dipping sauces For dipping
Instructions
How to Make Festive Candy Cane Chicken Sausage Blanket
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut each fully cooked chicken sausage into 3–4 equal pieces.
- Unroll the crescent dough or puff pastry and cut it into thin strips.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper onto the dough strips.
- Wrap each sausage piece diagonally with the dough, leaving small gaps.
- Curve one end of each wrapped sausage to form the candy cane hook.
- Beat the egg together with the milk and brush over the wrapped sausages.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Cool slightly before serving and present with dipping sauces.
