The aroma of freshly baked pastry lingers in the air, evoking memories of cozy holiday gatherings and festive cheer. There’s something truly special about making homemade treats, especially when they’re as delightful as these Christmas Sausage Rolls with Cranberry Sauce and Brie. Easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser, these savory pastries combine the rich flavors of pork sausage, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and creamy Brie, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for holiday parties or a cozy night in, this recipe invites you to savor the season with each bite. Ready to bring warmth and cheer to your table? Let’s get rolling!
Why are these sausage rolls a must-try?
Irresistible Flavors: The combination of savory pork sausage, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and rich Brie creates an explosion of taste that captures the holiday spirit.
Effortless Preparation: Using ready-to-roll puff pastry means you don’t need advanced baking skills to impress your guests.
Festive Appeal: These rolls are perfect for any holiday gathering, complementing drinks like mulled wine or fitting in beautifully on a festive cheese board.
Customization Options: Feel free to swap ingredients, such as using turkey sausage for a lighter twist or experimenting with different cheeses to suit your palate.
Leftover Friendly: Make-ahead and freezer-friendly, these rolls can be stored and enjoyed any time the craving hits! They’re perfect alongside other festive snacks like Cheesy Christmas Tree or Christmas Meatballs Sweet for a delicious spread.
Christmas Sausage Rolls Ingredients
Prepare to create mouthwatering Christmas Sausage Rolls that will delight your guests!
For the Filling
- Pork Sausage Meat – Provides the savory base; substitute with turkey sausage meat for a lighter option, adding a chicken stock cube for enhanced flavor.
- Garlic Clove – Adds aromatic flavor; can be omitted for those who prefer a milder taste.
- Orange Zest – Enhances sweetness and complements the tart cranberry sauce; you can substitute with lemon zest if desired.
- Mixed Herbs – Delivers earthy notes; use a blend of marjoram, oregano, basil, and thyme, adjusting to your taste.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to bring out the flavor.
For the Pastry
- Ready-to-Roll Puff Pastry – Provides structural integrity and flakiness; while homemade is lovely, store-bought saves time and hassle.
- Beaten Egg – For brushing, it gives the pastry a beautiful golden sheen when baked.
For the Toppings
- Cranberry Sauce – Adds a festive sweetness; if cranberry isn’t your preference, try using caramelized onion jam instead.
- Brie – Contributes rich creaminess; you can also swap it for Camembert or Cheddar for a different flavor profile.
With these ingredients in hand, you’ll be well on your way to making unforgettable Christmas Sausage Rolls that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sausage Rolls
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (or 180°C for fan ovens). While your oven warms up, lightly grease a baking sheet to prevent sticking. This initial step sets the stage for baking your Christmas Sausage Rolls to golden perfection.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the pork sausage meat, minced garlic, orange zest, mixed herbs, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything is evenly incorporated, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. This luscious filling will form the heart of your delicious sausage rolls.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
On a clean, floured surface, unroll the ready-to-roll puff pastry and cut it in half lengthways. The flaky layers are essential for a tender bite. Next, spread a generous line of cranberry sauce down the center of each pastry half, inviting that festive sweetness into your Christmas Sausage Rolls.
Step 4: Shape the Sausage Meat
Form the sausage meat mixture into a cylindrical shape and place it directly on top of the cranberry sauce. Make sure the meat is evenly shaped to maintain a balanced bite while baking. This step is crucial as it layers the savory under the sweet, capturing holiday flavors.
Step 5: Add the Creamy Brie
Carefully layer slices of Brie over the sausage meat; their richness complements the dish beautifully. The Brie will melt during baking, adding a delightful creaminess to your rolls. This step enhances the mixture and provides a touch of decadence to your Christmas Sausage Rolls.
Step 6: Fold and Seal the Pastry
Brush one edge of the puff pastry with the beaten egg to help seal your rolls. Fold the pastry over to enclose the filling, pressing down gently to secure the edges. Use a fork to crimp around the seams, ensuring a well-sealed pastry that holds all those wonderful flavors inside.
Step 7: Cut and Vent
Using a sharp knife, cut each roll into four equal sections, creating beautiful bite-sized pieces. Make a few small slits on top to allow steam to escape while baking. These cuts not only add a decorative touch but are essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your Christmas Sausage Rolls to the greased baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and they are ready when they turn golden brown and flaky. This final step ensures your festive snacks are beautifully cooked and bursting with flavor.
What to Serve with Festive Christmas Sausage Rolls
Indulge your guests with delightful accompaniments that elevate your holiday gathering and create a memorable feast.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw balances the savory flavors of the sausage rolls and adds freshness to your spread. Its creamy texture complements the rich Brie beautifully.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized carrots and parsnips offer a warm, earthy contrast. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly, enhancing the festive atmosphere at your table.
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Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced drink encapsulates the essence of holiday gatherings. Its fruity notes harmonize beautifully with the sweet-tart cranberry sauce, making every bite of sausage roll even more enjoyable.
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Homemade Cranberry Sauce: Serve extra cranberry sauce on the side for those who crave more of that tart flavor. It brings a burst of freshness that enhances the overall experience.
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Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like goat or blue cheese provide a delightful variance in flavor and texture. Pair with nuts and dried fruits for an elegant touch that feels indulgent.
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Festive Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, sliced pears, and walnuts adds brightness. It offers a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the sausage rolls.
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Gingerbread Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with soft, spiced gingerbread cookies. They encapsulate holiday joy, making them the perfect festive treat after savory bites.
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Hot Apple Cider: Warm, spiced cider mingles sweet and tangy notes, offering comfort during cozy gatherings. It’s a perfect drink to warm up the winter chill alongside the rolls.
Christmas Sausage Rolls Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to these festive sausage rolls and elevate their deliciousness!
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Turkey Sausage: Substitute pork sausage with turkey for a lighter option. Mix in a chicken stock cube to deepen the flavor and keep it tasty.
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Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese instead of Brie for a tangy twist! The creamy texture will contrast beautifully with the savory filling and sweet cranberry sauce.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a little heat. This zing not only enhances the flavor but also adds excitement to each bite!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs, like rosemary or sage, for a delightful aromatic experience. Fresh herbs can transform the taste profile, making it feel like a gourmet treat.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry to make these sausage rolls accessible for everyone. The delicious filling will still shine through, and nobody will miss the gluten!
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Sweet and Savory: Swap cranberry sauce for caramelized onion jam for a sweet-savory delight. The rich, deep flavors will bring a unique touch to your sausage rolls.
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Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian version, fill with herbed mushrooms and spinach. These flavors pair wonderfully with a tangy cheese, giving everyone a chance to enjoy a festive treat.
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DIY Pastry: If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own puff pastry! The fresh taste will elevate the rolls, making them even more decadent and special.
Don’t forget to serve these Christmas Sausage Rolls alongside a festive cheese board or pair them with delicious Christmas Meatballs Sweet to create an unforgettable holiday spread! For a sweet treat, consider adding some Pie Crescent Rolls to the mix.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sausage Rolls are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the filling (pork sausage meat, herbs, and seasoning) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before baking. To ensure the pastry stays flaky, tightly cover the rolls with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven and bake the rolls for 25 minutes until golden brown. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade Christmas Sausage Rolls on hand with minimal hassle, allowing you to focus on sharing warmth and joy with loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sausage Rolls
Fridge: Store cooked Christmas Sausage Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best crispiness.
Freezer: For longer-term storage, freeze uncooked rolls by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen without thawing.
Reheating: To reheat cooked sausage rolls, place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Expert Tips for Christmas Sausage Rolls
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Seal the Edges: Ensure the pastry edges are thoroughly sealed with egg wash; this prevents any filling from leaking out during baking.
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Prevent Soggy Pastry: Avoid overfilling with cranberry sauce to ensure the pastry stays flaky and crisp. A little goes a long way!
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Golden Color: Brush the tops with a generous layer of beaten egg to achieve that lovely golden sheen when baked.
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Sharp Knife for Cuts: Use a sharp knife to make clean cuts for steam vents; this not only helps with even cooking but also enhances presentation.
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Best Served Warm: For the ultimate experience, serve the Christmas Sausage Rolls warm; reheating can make the pastry lose its delightful crunch.
Christmas Sausage Rolls Recipe FAQs
How can I ensure my pork sausage meat is fresh?
Absolutely! Look for pork sausage meat that is bright pink with no dark spots or unpleasant odors. The texture should be firm and moist, without any excessive liquid. If you’re at a butcher, ask for the freshest batch available!
What’s the best way to store my Christmas Sausage Rolls?
You can store cooked Christmas Sausage Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend placing parchment paper between layers to maintain freshness. To reheat, just pop them back in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re warm and crispy!
Can I freeze the uncooked sausage rolls?
Very! To freeze uncooked sausage rolls, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Freeze them until solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. You can bake them straight from frozen—no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
Why did my pastry not turn golden brown?
If your pastry didn’t turn golden brown, it might be due to insufficient egg wash or not having the oven at the right temperature. Ensure you brush the tops with a generous amount of beaten egg before baking, and check that your oven is properly preheated. An easy test is to place an oven thermometer inside to see the actual temperature.
Are there any dietary considerations for these sausage rolls?
Definitely! If you’re serving these Christmas Sausage Rolls to guests, check for allergies to common ingredients like gluten in the pastry, or dairy in the Brie. For a gluten-free alternative, you could try using gluten-free puff pastry, but ensure all other ingredients align with dietary restrictions. It’s always best to ask your guests!
What should I do if I have leftovers?
Use leftovers creatively! You can mix any remaining sausage filling into scrambled eggs for a festive breakfast or transform the rolls into a hearty soup topping. If stored properly, they’ll stay tasty and can be enjoyed in many ways throughout the week!
Delicious Christmas Sausage Rolls with Festive Cranberry Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (or 180°C for fan ovens) and grease a baking sheet.
- In a bowl, combine the pork sausage meat, minced garlic, orange zest, mixed herbs, salt, and pepper, mixing until well combined.
- On a floured surface, unroll the puff pastry and cut it in half. Spread a line of cranberry sauce down the center of each half.
- Form the sausage meat into a cylindrical shape and place it on top of the cranberry sauce.
- Layer slices of Brie over the sausage meat.
- Brush one edge of the pastry with beaten egg, fold over to encase the filling, and press to seal.
- Cut each roll into four sections and make small slits for steam to escape.
- Place on the baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.
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