📝 About This Recipe
Elevate the ultimate nostalgic comfort food with this air-fried version that delivers an incredible crunch without the heavy grease of deep frying. These bite-sized delights feature juicy cocktail franks wrapped in buttery, flaky crescent dough, topped with a savory crunch of 'everything' seasoning. Perfect for game days or holiday parties, the air fryer ensures a perfectly golden-brown finish and a snap in every bite that an oven simply can't replicate.
🥗 Ingredients
The Blankets and Pigs
- 24 pieces Cocktail Smokies or Mini Frankfurters (patted dry with a paper towel)
- 1 can Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough (8 oz standard size)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard (for a hidden flavor layer inside)
The Topping
- 1 Egg (beaten with 1 tsp water for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons Everything Bagel Seasoning (contains sesame, poppy seeds, garlic, and onion)
- 1 pinch Flaky Sea Salt (optional, for extra texture)
Spicy Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce
- 1/4 cup Yellow Mustard
- 2 tablespoons Honey or Maple Syrup
- 1 tablespoon Mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Hot Sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (160°C). While it warms up, remove the cocktail franks from their packaging and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure the dough sticks properly.
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2
Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean cutting board or a piece of parchment paper. Press the perforated seams together to create one solid rectangle.
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3
Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into long, thin triangles. You should aim for roughly 24 small triangles to match the number of franks.
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4
Lightly brush a tiny dab of Dijon mustard onto the wide end of each dough triangle for a subtle, gourmet kick.
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5
Place a cocktail frank at the wide end of a dough triangle and roll it up toward the point. Ensure the point is tucked underneath the roll so it doesn't unravel during cooking.
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6
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and water together until smooth. Lightly brush the top of each wrapped pig with the egg wash.
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7
Generously sprinkle the Everything Bagel seasoning over the egg-washed tops, pressing lightly so the seeds adhere.
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8
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with a small amount of oil or use a perforated parchment liner designed for air fryers.
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9
Place the pigs in the basket in a single layer, leaving at least half an inch of space between them for air circulation. You may need to cook in two batches.
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10
Air fry at 325°F for 8 to 10 minutes. Check at the 7-minute mark; they are done when the dough is puffed and a deep golden brown.
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11
While the pigs are frying, whisk together the yellow mustard, honey, mayonnaise, hot sauce, and smoked paprika in a small dipping bowl.
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12
Carefully remove the pigs from the air fryer using silicone-tipped tongs and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving—this helps the dough set and prevents burns.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always pat your sausages dry; moisture is the enemy of a flaky crust and will make the dough soggy. Don't overcrowd the basket! Air fryers rely on rapid air movement, so space is essential for that perfect golden crunch. If you don't have Everything Bagel seasoning, a mix of sesame seeds, dried minced garlic, and coarse salt works beautifully. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based cocktail sausages or even pieces of string cheese (though keep them cold before wrapping). If using full-sized hot dogs, cut them into thirds and adjust the dough size accordingly.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a cold, crisp Lager or a hoppy IPA to cut through the buttery dough. Pair with a side of crunchy dill pickle spears for a classic deli-style experience. Arrange on a platter with the Spicy Maple-Mustard and a side of beer cheese dip. For a brunch twist, serve with a small bowl of warm maple syrup for dipping. Add a fresh element by garnishing the platter with chopped chives or green onions.