Christmas Sausage Rolls
Christmas Sausage Rolls offer a festive twist on the classic snack. The combination of flaky puff pastry with a flavorful sausage filling makes these treats perfect for the holiday season. With festive ingredients like cranberries, herbs, and a touch of spice, they become an irresistible addition to any Christmas party or gathering.
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Festive Flavors: Traditional sausage rolls are given a holiday makeover with cranberries and seasonal spices.
- Quick and Easy: These rolls are simple to prepare and bake, making them ideal for busy holiday schedules.
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether as an appetizer, party snack, or side dish, these sausage rolls are great for any occasion.
- Customizable: The filling can be tailored to suit your taste preferences.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them in advance and bake when needed.
Ingredients:
- Puff pastry sheets (thawed)
- Sausage meat (or ground pork)
- Dried cranberries, chopped
- Fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
- Onion, finely diced
- Garlic, minced
- Ground nutmeg or allspice
- Salt and black pepper
- Egg, beaten (for brushing)
- Optional: Dijon mustard (for extra flavor)
Directions:
- Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine sausage meat, chopped cranberries, fresh herbs, diced onion, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined. - Roll the Pastry:
On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets into rectangles. Cut each sheet into strips about 4–5 inches wide. - Assemble the Sausage Rolls:
Spread the sausage filling in a log shape along the center of each pastry strip. Fold the pastry over the filling, overlapping slightly, and press to seal the edges. Use a fork to crimp the seam. - Cut and Glaze:
Cut the rolled pastry into smaller pieces (2–3 inches each) and place them on a lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish. - Bake:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed. - Serve:
Let the rolls cool slightly and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces or chutneys.
Servings and Timing:
- Servings: Makes about 12–16 rolls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based sausage substitute or a filling made with lentils, mushrooms, and cheese.
- Cheese Upgrade: Add grated cheddar or Parmesan to the filling for extra richness.
- Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sausage mixture for some heat.
- Sweet and Savory: For sweetness, drizzle honey or add a spoonful of cranberry sauce inside the roll.
- Mini Rolls: Cut the pastry into smaller sections for bite-sized sausage rolls.
Storage/Reheating:
- Storage: Store leftover sausage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore their crispness.
- Freezing: Unbaked sausage rolls can be frozen. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs:
- Can I use store-bought sausage meat?
Yes, pre-seasoned sausage meat works well. You can enhance it with cranberries and herbs for a festive touch. - What type of pastry is best?
Puff pastry is ideal for its light, flaky texture, but shortcrust pastry can also be used. - Can I make these sausage rolls in advance?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time and store in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake. - How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
Ensure the filling isn’t too wet, and pat the sausage meat dry if needed. Bake immediately after assembly for best results. - Can I add cheese to the filling?
Yes! Cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère all work well in the filling. - What dipping sauces pair well with these rolls?
Cranberry sauce, honey mustard, or a spiced chutney are great options. - How do I know when the sausage rolls are done?
The pastry should be golden brown, and the filling should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). - Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free puff pastry and check that the sausage meat doesn’t contain gluten. - Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, or grated carrots can be added for extra flavor and texture. - What’s the best way to seal the pastry?
Use a little water or beaten egg along the edges to help seal the pastry, and crimp the seam with a fork for extra security.
Conclusion:
Christmas Sausage Rolls are a delightful and savory addition to your holiday spread. With their flaky, golden crust and flavorful filling, they are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger meal, these rolls will become a festive favorite. Enjoy the warmth and joy they bring to your celebrations!
Christmas Sausage Rolls
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 1 lb 450g sausage meat (or ground pork)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme chopped
- 1/2 onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg or allspice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the pastry:
- 2 sheets puff pastry thawed
For glazing:
- 1 egg beaten (for brushing)
Optional additions:
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard for extra flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine sausage meat, chopped cranberries, fresh herbs, diced onion, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Roll the Pastry: On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets into rectangles. Cut each sheet into strips about 4–5 inches wide.
- Assemble the Sausage Rolls: Spread the sausage filling in a log shape along the center of each pastry strip. Fold the pastry over the filling, overlapping slightly, and press to seal the edges. Use a fork to crimp the seam.
- Cut and Glaze: Cut the rolled pastry into smaller pieces (2–3 inches each) and place them on a lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces or chutneys.

