Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Sausage Crescents?
Savory Sausage Crescents are an easy and popular snack or appetizer made by wrapping cocktail sausages in strips of buttery crescent roll dough and baking them until golden.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You only need two main ingredients: 16 ounces of Pillsbury Refrigerated Crescent Dinner Rolls and 48 fully cooked cocktail smoked sausage links.
How many crescent roll cans are required?
The recipe calls for two 8-ounce cans of refrigerated crescent dinner rolls.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for the best results.
How long do the sausage crescents need to bake?
Bake them for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed up and golden brown.
How many sausage crescents does this recipe make?
By cutting each of the 16 crescent dough triangles into three strips, this recipe makes exactly 48 individual appetizers.
How do I cut the crescent roll dough triangles?
After separating the dough into 8 triangles per can, cut each triangle lengthwise into three equal, thinner triangles.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
No, you should place the rolled sausages on an ungreased baking sheet as the dough has enough butter to prevent sticking.
Can I use different types of sausages?
Yes, you can use spicy cocktail sausages, mini-bratwursts, or even plant-based cocktail sausages as long as they are fully cooked.
Are Savory Sausage Crescents suitable for kids?
Absolutely! They are a favorite among children due to their small size, mild flavor, and soft, flaky texture.
How do I roll the sausage in the dough?
Place the sausage on the shortest side of the dough strip and roll it toward the longest point, ensuring the sausage is wrapped securely.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a few hours in advance, cover them, and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to bake.
What are the best dipping sauces for these?
Common favorites include honey mustard, yellow mustard, ketchup, BBQ sauce, and ranch dressing.
Do the cocktail sausages need to be cooked before wrapping?
No, just ensure you use 'fully cooked' cocktail sausages; the oven time is sufficient to heat them through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these?
Yes, they can be frozen either before or after baking. If baking from frozen, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
How should I reheat them?
Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to keep the dough crisp, or in an air fryer for 2-3 minutes.
Can I add cheese to the recipe?
Yes, you can place a small sliver of cheddar or American cheese inside the dough strip before rolling up the sausage.
What if I can't find cocktail sausages?
You can use regular hot dogs cut into 1.5 to 2-inch pieces as a perfectly fine substitute.
How do I prevent the dough from getting soggy?
Pat the cocktail sausages dry with a paper towel before wrapping them to remove excess moisture from the packaging.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes, air fry them at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't over-brown.
Can I brush the tops with anything?
Brushing with a simple egg wash or melted butter before baking will give them a beautiful golden shine.
What toppings can I add to the outside?
You can sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning on the dough before baking for extra flavor and crunch.
Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated?
Certainly! While the recipe is designed for convenience, any homemade crescent or puff pastry dough will work.
What makes this a 'Kid Friendly' recipe?
Its small size, simple flavors, and the fact that kids can easily help with the rolling process makes it very kid-friendly.
Are these served warm or cold?
They are best served warm, fresh out of the oven, though they can be eaten at room temperature.
Can I make a spicy version?
Yes, use 'hot and spicy' cocktail sausages or add a small slice of jalapeño inside the roll.
Is this a good recipe for a party?
Yes, it's a classic 'finger food' that is easy to serve in large quantities and generally very popular with crowds.
How do I know when they are finished cooking?
The dough will be puffed and have a light golden-brown color on the top and bottom.
Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?
Yes, puff pastry can be used for a flakier, more layered texture, though the baking time and temperature may vary slightly.