There’s something incredibly comforting about homemade treats, especially when the festive season rolls around. Picture this: the joyful chaos of family gatherings, laughter filling the air, and the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked Christmas Sausage Rolls with Cranberry and Herbs wafting from your kitchen. Inspired by a blend of childhood memories and seasonal joy, these delightful rolls perfectly combine savory sausage meat with a touch of citrusy brightness and the sweetness of cranberry.
After a long day of holiday shopping or preparing for guests, finding a simple yet impressive dish to whip up can feel like a challenge. But fear not! This easy-to-follow recipe comes together in under an hour, making it a perfect solution for those last-minute cravings or holiday parties. Plus, with each flaky bite, you’ll impress your friends and family while indulging in a bite-sized comfort that leaves fast food far behind. Join me as we dive into this festive recipe that promises to become a new holiday favorite!
Why will you love Christmas Sausage Rolls with Cranberry and Herbs?
Comfort Food Redefined: These Christmas Sausage Rolls combine savory sausage with sweet cranberry and refreshing herbs, delivering a burst of festive flavors in every bite.
Easy and Quick: With a prep and bake time of under an hour, they’re perfect for busy holiday schedules or unexpected guests.
Impressive Presentation: Serve them warm for a beautiful centerpiece at your holiday gatherings, sure to impress family and friends alike.
Versatile Filling: Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste; this recipe is perfect for making your own signature version.
Joyful Aroma: The delightful blend of ingredients fills your home with a warm, inviting scent that captures the essence of the season.
Crowd-Pleasing Treats: These bite-sized rolls are perfect for entertaining, giving everyone a chance to indulge while mingling during the holiday festivities!
Christmas Sausage Rolls Ingredients
For the Filling
• Sausage Meat – 400 g of flavorful sausage meat lends richness and depth to the rolls.
• Garlic – 1 clove minced – Adds a delightful aroma that elevates the savory profile.
• Mixed Dried Herbs – 1 tsp – A blend of herbs enhances the festive taste.
• Orange Zest – Zest from 1 medium orange – Infuses a refreshing citrus note, making the flavors pop.
• Cranberry Sauce – 2–3 Tbsp – Sweet and tangy, this sauce adds a festive burst to the filling.
For the Pastry
• Puff Pastry – 1 sheet, thawed if frozen – Achieves that flaky, golden crust that everyone loves.
• Egg – 1 beaten – Brushed on for a shiny, golden finish that beckons.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste – A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper balance the flavors perfectly.
These delicious Christmas Sausage Rolls with Cranberry and Herbs are not just easy to make, but they also bring joy and warmth to every gathering!
How to Make Christmas Sausage Rolls with Cranberry and Herbs
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Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup and helps the rolls bake evenly.
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Combine the sausage meat, minced garlic, orange zest, mixed dried herbs, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix gently until just combined for a flavorful filling that’s cohesive yet still tender.
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Lay out the puff pastry flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin ribbon of cranberry sauce along one long edge, leaving a small border to create a sweet contrast inside.
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Shape the sausage mixture into a long log and place it over the cranberry line. Distributing the filling evenly will ensure every bite is deliciously satisfying.
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Roll the pastry forward to enclose the filling, sealing the seam with the beaten egg if needed. Place seam side down on the prepared baking sheet for baking stability.
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Brush the pastry with the remaining beaten egg for a golden finish. Lightly score the top with diagonal slits to release steam, preventing soggy pastry.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the pastry is puffed and golden, with the sausage fully cooked. For extra crispness, bake a few additional minutes and enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen.
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Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into 1½–2 inch pieces using a sharp serrated knife. Serve them warm or at room temperature for optimal enjoyment.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sausage Rolls
Fridge: Store leftover Christmas Sausage Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their flaky texture and delicious flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen rolls directly on a baking sheet and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, these delightful rolls can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before needing to be refrigerated, allowing guests to enjoy them at their best.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sausage Rolls with Cranberry and Herbs are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive flavors without last-minute stress! You can prepare the sausage filling up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The shapes of the rolls can be assembled up to 3 days ahead; simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven and brush the rolls with beaten egg before baking for that golden finish. By preparing ahead, you can savor the delightful taste of these rolls with minimal effort on busy days!
What to Serve with Christmas Sausage Rolls with Cranberry and Herbs?
Imagine the scene: a cozy gathering filled with laughter, warmth, and the delicious smell of freshly baked treats inviting your loved ones to the table.
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Crisp Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the sausage rolls.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized sweetness complements the savory filling, adding a crunchy texture that enhances every delicious bite.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: These sweet, tender carrots bring a pop of color and flavor, making for a wholesome and festive side.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy and buttery, they provide a comforting, indulgent base that accentuates the hearty sausage rolls, perfect for stay-at-home celebrations.
For beverages, consider offering a Crisp White Wine; its acidity will cut through the richness beautifully. Additionally, a Spiced Apple Cider warms the heart and keeps the festive spirit alive, rounding out your gathering with just the right touch of cheer!
Christmas Sausage Rolls with Cranberry Variations
Add some personal flair to your Christmas Sausage Rolls with Cranberry and Herbs by trying these fun twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for a warm, zesty surprise in every bite. The heat will balance perfectly with the sweetness of the cranberry.
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Herb Infusion: Swap mixed dried herbs for fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, which amplify the flavors and bring an earthy note. Fresh herbs provide a vibrant aroma that elevates the entire dish.
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Cheesy Delight: Incorporate 100 g of shredded cheddar or feta cheese into the filling for a creamy, savory twist. It adds richness and a delightful gooey texture that’s simply irresistible!
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Gluten-Free Pastry: Use a gluten-free puff pastry option for gluten-sensitive guests, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festive treat without missing out on flavor and texture.
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Savory Add-Ons: Toss in some sautéed onions or mushrooms to the sausage mix for an extra layer of complexity. These ingredients can add delightful umami notes that truly elevate the rolls.
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Sweet Swap: Replace cranberry sauce with a homemade apple chutney for a unique sweetness that pairs wonderfully with sausage. The fruity taste of apple brings a delightful change that’s both refreshing and festive.
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Veggie Lovers: For a vegetarian version, replace sausage meat with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and nut-based cheese. These rolls will burst with colorful, flavorful goodness that appeals to all.
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Bold Citrus: Enhance the flavor by adding a splash of lemon juice to the sausage mixture along with the orange zest. This brightens the taste and adds a lively zing that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Feel free to experiment and make these rolls uniquely yours!
Tips for the Best Christmas Sausage Rolls
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Texture Check: Ensure sausage meat is not over-mixed; this keeps the filling tender and prevents a dense texture in your Christmas Sausage Rolls.
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Proper Sealing: Make sure to seal the pastry edges well with egg wash to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
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Cranberry Spread: Spread the cranberry sauce thinly and evenly. Too much can make the rolls soggy, while too little may leave them dry.
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Golden Finish: Brush the tops generously with beaten egg for that beautiful golden-brown color; skip this step, and you might end up with a dull finish.
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Cooling Time: Allow the rolls to rest for a few minutes after baking. This makes slicing smoother and helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Christmas Sausage Rolls with Cranberry and Herbs Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select sausage meat?
Absolutely! When selecting sausage meat, look for high-quality, fresh sausage with a good balance of fat and lean meat. You want it to have a nice color without any dark spots or an off smell. If it’s pre-packaged, check the expiration date to ensure freshness.
How should I store leftover Christmas Sausage Rolls?
Very! To maintain their flaky texture and flavor, store leftover Christmas Sausage Rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also place a paper towel in the container to help absorb any moisture, keeping them from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze Christmas Sausage Rolls, and how?
Of course! For freezing, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes until heated through and the pastry is crisp.
What if my sausage rolls are soggy after baking?
It can happen! If your sausage rolls are soggy, ensure that you are not adding too much cranberry sauce, as excess moisture can lead to a soft pastry. Also, lightly score the top of the pastry before baking to allow steam to escape. Baking them a few extra minutes for a crispier finish can help, too!
Are these sausage rolls safe for pets?
Generally, it’s best to keep these sausage rolls away from pets. Ingredients like garlic and excessive fats may not sit well with them. Always check with your vet about what human foods are safe for your furry friends to enjoy.
Can I substitute the herbs in the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs or spices. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add a delightful depth to the flavor. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to your personal taste and remember that dried herbs can be stronger than fresh ones.
Ultimate Christmas Sausage Rolls with Cranberry and Herbs Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine sausage meat, minced garlic, orange zest, mixed dried herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Lay out puff pastry flat. Spread a thin ribbon of cranberry sauce along one edge.
- Shape sausage mixture into a log and place it over the cranberry line.
- Roll the pastry to enclose the filling and seal the seam with beaten egg.
- Brush the pastry with remaining egg wash and score the top with slits.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into pieces and serve warm.