These bites were inspired by a recipe my dear sister brought to a Christmas Eve gathering. Both the kids and adults devoured them, leaving no trace behind. This is my version made with fresh herbs, a touch of apple cider, and a homemade dipping sauce. They are perfect for any occasion whether it is a Christmas get together, New Year celebration, or game day. Using frozen puff pastry makes this a delicious appetizer that is easy to pull together, letting you focus on the celebration and the joy of being together.
Ingredients
Pastry
1boxfrozen puff pastry (17.3 oz)
Sausage Filling
1lb.mild pork sausage
1egg
½c.plain dry bread crumbs
¼tsp.fresh cracked pepper
½tsp.salt
½tsp.garlic powder
½tsp.onion powder
2tbsp.apple cider or juice
1tbsp.minced fresh flat-leaf parsley
6sprigs of thyme (leaves only)
6sage leaves, minced
6chive stalks, minced
Egg Wash
1egg
1tbsp.water
Honey Dijon Dipping Sauce
¼c.mayo
2tbsp.Dijon mustard
2tbsp.honey
½tsp.Cajun seasoning
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400° and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Thaw puff pastry according to package instructions (it should be pliable but still cold).
Combine pork filling ingredients in a mixing bowl.
On a flat surface, unfold both sheets of puff pastry. Roll each sheet into an 11-inch-long rectangle, then cut into thirds lengthwise (you’ll have 6 pieces total).
Place the sausage mixture slightly off-center on each pastry strip. Fold the pastry over the filling to enclose it, then use a fork to seal the edges.
Cut each log into 2-inch pieces and space 1 inch apart on your baking sheets. Make a single diagonal slit across the top of each sausage bite.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash. Brush the tops and edges of each sausage bite with the egg wash.
Bake until the sausage is cooked through and the pastry is golden brown, about 25 minutes. While they cool, whisk together the ingredients for the dipping sauce in a small bowl. Serve the bites with the sauce and enjoy!