Experience a unique twist on a classic snack with our irresistible Pickles in a Blanket! These delightful bites feature golden, flaky crescent rolls generously filled with a creamy, savory cheese mixture and crisp mini dill pickles. Perfect for parties, game nights, or simply a fun snack, they’re surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.
Delectable Pickles in a Blanket: Your New Favorite 30-Minute Appetizer
Pickles are enjoying an undeniable moment in the culinary spotlight! From pickle-flavored potato chips to zesty pickle pasta salads, the tangy, briny goodness of pickles is being celebrated in countless creative ways. If you consider yourself a true pickle enthusiast, then prepare to fall in love with these remarkable Pickles in a Blanket. Imagine the beloved concept of Pigs in a Blanket, but elevated with a wonderfully unexpected ingredient: pickles! Instead of traditional hot dogs or sausages, these savory pastries encase crunchy baby dill pickles, nestled within a rich, creamy blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar, all wrapped in a warm, buttery, and fluffy crescent roll. The addition of crispy bacon bits takes them to an even higher level of deliciousness. They’re a fantastic choice for a quick, satisfying snack or an impressive appetizer that can be whipped up effortlessly when guests arrive. Be ready for surprised smiles and rave reviews – everyone is always amazed by how much they adore them!
“We actually made these along with your glazed pigs in a blanket. Everyone was surprised how much they loved these and they ate ALL of them!”
– Cara
Why Pickles in a Blanket Will Be Your Next Obsession
In a world of predictable appetizers, Pickles in a Blanket stand out as a delightful surprise. They offer a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that captivate the palate: the satisfying crunch of a perfectly pickled dill, the smooth richness of a cheesy, bacon-studded filling, and the warm, tender embrace of a golden crescent roll. This isn’t just a snack; it’s an experience that awakens the senses. The tanginess of the pickle cuts through the richness of the cheese and bacon, creating a balanced and incredibly addictive flavor profile that keeps you reaching for more. They’re quick enough for a weeknight treat but elegant enough to serve at your most important gatherings.
The Enduring Appeal of Pickles: A Culinary Trend That Lasts
The humble pickle has transcended its side-dish status to become a beloved ingredient in its own right. What makes pickles so universally appealing? It’s their distinctive sour, salty, and sometimes sweet flavor, coupled with that irresistible crunch. Pickles add a vibrant acidity and a refreshing counterpoint to richer foods, making them a fantastic addition to everything from sandwiches to elaborate charcuterie boards. In these Pickles in a Blanket, the pickle is no longer just an accompaniment but the star, brilliantly showcased in a warm, cheesy package. This recipe taps into the current pickle craze while offering a timeless comfort food appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! There are many ways to customize these Pickles in a Blanket. You can experiment with different flavored cream cheeses, such as chive and onion, garlic and herb, or even a jalapeño cream cheese for an extra kick. Another option is to mix different cheeses into the filling – consider a sharp provolone, smoked gouda, or a Monterey Jack for unique flavor notes. You could also sprinkle different herbs on top before baking, like fresh chopped parsley, chives, or a pinch of paprika for color and a subtle flavor.
Definitely! A touch of heat can beautifully complement the tangy pickles and creamy cheese. If you enjoy a bit of spice, you have several options. You can easily add a dash or two of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture, or finely dice a fresh jalapeño or serrano pepper and mix it in. For a milder warmth, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a smoky chipotle powder would also work wonderfully. Alternatively, consider using Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar in the filling.
Yes, you certainly can! While mini dill pickles are ideal for their size and classic flavor, feel free to experiment. If you opt for larger pickles, such as standard dill spears or even bread and butter pickles for a sweet and savory contrast, be sure to cut them into smaller, manageable pieces that can be easily wrapped by the crescent roll dough. The key is to ensure they fit snugly and don’t make the rolls too bulky. Choose any flavor of pickle that excites your taste buds!
No crescent rolls on hand? No problem! A great substitute for crescent roll dough is puff pastry. Simply thaw a sheet of puff pastry, roll it out lightly, cut it into triangles or strips, and proceed with the recipe as directed. Puff pastry will give you an even flakier, buttery result, offering a slightly different but equally delicious texture. Another option could be refrigerated biscuit dough, flattened and cut.
Any leftover Pickles in a Blanket can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and the crescent rolls crisp up again. This prevents them from becoming soggy, which can sometimes happen in a microwave.
Ingredients Needed: Simple Components for a Sensational Snack
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering Pickles in a Blanket. This recipe relies on a few key components that come together to form a truly satisfying appetizer. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
- Crescent Rolls: You’ll need two tubes of refrigerated crescent roll dough. These provide the signature buttery, flaky wrapper that makes this appetizer so comforting. For an extra touch of homemade goodness, consider making your own Homemade Crescent Roll dough, though store-bought works perfectly for convenience.
- Mini Dill Pickles: The stars of the show! It’s crucial to pat these dry thoroughly with paper towels before wrapping them. Excess moisture can make your crescent rolls soggy. These small dill pickles go by various names in the pickle aisle, so don’t be surprised if you see them labeled as cocktail pickles, gherkins, petite dills, or baby dills. They are essentially the same and any of these will work beautifully in this recipe, providing that essential tangy crunch.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This is vital for achieving a smooth, spreadable mixture that easily combines with the other filling ingredients. If you find yourself in a rush, check out my tips on How to Soften Cream Cheese Quickly for a speedy solution.
- Bacon Pieces: These add a wonderful smoky, salty, and crispy element to the creamy filling. You have two main options here: either cook a few slices of fresh bacon until crispy and then crumble them, or for maximum convenience, grab a bag of pre-cooked bacon pieces from the salad aisle of your grocery store.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice for its sharp, familiar flavor and excellent melting properties. However, feel free to get creative here! If you’re looking to add a touch of warmth and spice, shredded Pepper Jack cheese would be an excellent substitution. Other good options include Monterey Jack, a mild colby, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Egg: This will be used to create an egg wash, giving the crescent rolls a beautiful golden-brown finish and a slight sheen.
- Milk: A small amount of milk (or water) is mixed with the egg to thin it out, making the egg wash easier to brush evenly over the crescent rolls. It helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Dried Dill: While optional, a sprinkle of dried dill on top before baking really enhances the pickle flavor profile and adds an aromatic touch. It brings a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the tanginess of the pickles perfectly.
How to Make Pickles in a Blanket: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making these savory delights is incredibly straightforward, perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Follow these simple steps for perfect Pickles in a Blanket every time:
- Prepare Your Workspace: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
- Unroll the Dough: Carefully unroll both tubes of crescent roll dough. You’ll typically find them in perforated triangles. For this recipe, we’ll slice each large triangle down the middle lengthwise, effectively doubling your strips. This will give you a total of 32 smaller strips of dough, perfect for wrapping individual mini pickles.
- Prepare the Creamy Filling: In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crunchy bacon pieces, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and relatively smooth. The softened cream cheese will ensure a uniform and spreadable consistency.
- Fill the Crescent Rolls: Take one of your crescent roll strips. Spoon approximately one tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto the wider end of the dough strip. Spread it evenly across the wide base, leaving a small border at the edges.
- Add the Pickles: Place one mini dill pickle on top of the cream cheese mixture, aligning it with the wider end of the crescent roll strip. Ensure the pickle is snugly positioned for easy rolling.
- Roll Them Up: Starting from the wide end where the pickle is placed, carefully roll the crescent dough strip tightly towards the narrower point. This will create a neat, compact package. Once rolled, place each pickle in a blanket onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even baking.
- Apply Egg Wash and Season: In a separate small bowl, crack one egg and add ½ tablespoon of milk (or water). Whisk them together vigorously until well combined, creating a smooth egg wash. Gently brush this egg wash over the top of each crescent roll. This step is key for achieving a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly crisp exterior. Finish by sprinkling a little dried dill over each brushed roll for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are puffed up, beautifully golden brown, and cooked through. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Serve and Enjoy! Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is still gooey and the crescent rolls are at their flakiest.
Expert Tips for the Best Pickles in a Blanket
- Pat Pickles Dry: This is a crucial step! Excess moisture from the pickles can make your crescent rolls soggy. Always pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels before wrapping.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth, easily spreadable filling. If it’s too cold, it will be lumpy and hard to work with.
- Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load up the filling, about a tablespoon per crescent roll strip is ideal. Too much filling can cause the rolls to burst open during baking.
- Roll Tightly but Gently: Roll the crescent dough snugly around the pickle and filling. This helps to seal everything in and creates a uniform shape, but avoid stretching the dough too much.
- Even Baking: Ensure your baking sheet is not overcrowded. Give each pickle in a blanket enough space to allow for even heat circulation and consistent golden-brown results.
- Customize Your Cheese: Don’t limit yourself to cheddar! Gruyere, Swiss, or a blend of Italian cheeses can offer different flavor profiles. For a spicier kick, use Pepper Jack.
- Optional Toppings: Before baking, consider adding other savory sprinkles like everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Pickles in a Blanket are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. Consider serving them with a side of ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra burst of flavor. They make an excellent addition to any appetizer spread, charcuterie board, or as a fun snack during movie night or game day.
Craving More Delicious Recipes?
If you’ve enjoyed the unique flavor and ease of these Pickles in a Blanket, you’ll love exploring other recipes that celebrate pickles and quick, delicious appetizers. Here are some more ideas to inspire your next culinary adventure:
- Glazed Pigs in a Blanket
- Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
- Fried Pickle Dip
- Fried Pickles
- Refrigerator Pickles
- Bread and Butter Pickles
- Dill Pickle Relish
- Sweet Pickle Relish
- Jalapeno Popper Bites
Pickles in a Blanket
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15 minutes
12 minutes
27 minutes
16
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 2 (8 ounce) tubes crescent rolls
- 32 mini dill pickles, patted dry
- 4 ounces (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ¼ cup bacon pieces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg
- ½ Tablespoon milk (or water)
- dried dill
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Unroll 2 (8 ounce) tubes crescent rolls. Slice each large triangle down the middle so that you have 32 strips total.
- In a small bowl, mix together 4 ounces (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature, ¼ cup bacon pieces and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture onto each crescent roll (about a Tablespoon onto each strip.)
- Add a mini pickle to the wide part of the crescent roll strip.
- Roll the crescents up from the wide end and place onto the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, add 1 egg and ½ Tablespoon milk (or water) and whisk until combined. Brush onto each of the crescent rolls then sprinkle each roll with a little dried dill.
- Bake on the middle rack for about 12-15 minutes until golden.
- Then enjoy!
Notes
- Please refer to my FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
- Note: you can cut this recipe in half if you don’t need as much, adjusting all ingredient quantities proportionally.
Appetizer, Snack
American
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 8g |
Protein: 4g |
Fat: 9g |
Sodium: 739mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 3g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.