Christmas Sausage Rolls Holiday Flavors

Christmas sausage rolls have become my go to treat each year as soon as December arrives. The way the kitchen fills with the aroma of baking pastry and spiced sausage brings back memories of family parties and cozy evenings by the fire. Everyone lights up when a tray of these is set out on the table and no batch ever seems to last very long at my house.

I remember the first time I baked these for my friends and the plate was empty before I could even sit down. There is something festive and comforting in each mouthful and I keep this recipe on repeat all season.

Ingredients

• Sausage meat: choose a quality sausage for deep flavor look for fresh sausage with plenty of herbs and spices
• Puff pastry: one sheet thawed so it is easy to handle high butter content gives the flakiest texture
• Egg: beaten for a glossy golden glaze on the finished rolls use a fresh egg for best color
• Dried herbs: a mix like thyme and rosemary adds wintry warmth make sure your herbs are fragrant and not too old
• Salt and pepper: season the sausage mixture with freshly ground pepper and flaky sea salt for the best taste

Each of these ingredients is simple but important. Using fresh sausage and puff pastry makes all the difference and do not skimp on seasoning.

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Oven:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 Celsius so it is fully heated and ready for perfect pastry puffing

Prepare the Pastry:

Sprinkle a touch of flour on your work surface and roll out your puff pastry sheet so it is thin but still holds together aim for enough surface to easily cover the sausage mixture laid lengthwise

Mix the Filling:

Combine your sausage meat with dried herbs salt and pepper in a medium bowl using your hands to mix until everything is evenly incorporated the warmth of your hands helps the flavors blend

Shape the Sausage Log:

Gently pat the sausage mixture into an even log right down the center of your rolled out pastry keeping the width consistent so every roll bakes at the same speed

Wrap the Filling:

Fold the pastry over the sausage log pressing the seams together you can use damp fingers to seal make sure there are no gaps so the juices stay locked inside

Slice into Pieces:

Cut your filled pastry into pieces about two inches long I usually use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neatest edges

Arrange and Egg Wash:

Set each roll seam side down on a parchment lined baking sheet brush generously with beaten egg this step ensures deep golden color and a crisp finish

Bake:

Place the tray in your preheated oven and bake for twenty to twenty five minutes check after twenty for even browning and let them go a bit longer if needed for that extra crunch

Cool Slightly:

Let the sausage rolls rest on the baking pan for a minute or two before serving this keeps the pastry crisp and prevents steam burns when biting in

Bookmark

One of my favorite tricks is tucking a little extra dried rosemary in the sausage mixture for extra aroma. I remember making these with my mother on Christmas Eve and sneaking tastes of the sausage filling before it went in the oven. Now making them each year with my kids feels like passing down a delicious tradition.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator where they’ll stay fresh for about three days. For longer storage freeze completely cooled rolls in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to two months and can go straight from freezer to oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Swap out the herbs based on your pantry cardamom for warmth or sage for earthiness work wonderfully. Gluten free puff pastry is a good fix for dietary needs. For a dairy free version skip the egg wash or use a dairy free milk alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with tangy mustard sweet cranberry sauce or a hot honey drizzle for dipping. Pair with a fresh salad or a board of cheeses for a festive appetizer platter. For extra flair set them beside mulled wine or spiced cider to make your spread feel like a true holiday feast.

Bookmark

Holiday History

Sausage rolls have roots in classic British baking but the addition of herbs and festive spices makes them a Christmas classic in my home. Traditionally found at holiday buffets across Europe they bring a comforting savory bite to complement all the sweet treats of the season.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use different types of sausage meat?

Yes, you can choose pork, chicken, turkey, or even spicy sausage for unique flavors. Just ensure it's well-seasoned for best results.

→ How far in advance can I prepare them?

You can assemble the rolls and freeze before baking. Simply bake straight from the freezer when ready to serve.

→ Which sauces pair best with these rolls?

Mustard, sweet chili, or cranberry sauce all complement the savory pastry and filling wonderfully.

→ Can I make these rolls using an air fryer?

Definitely. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook until golden, usually 12–15 minutes. Watch closely for crispness.

→ What’s the method for reheating leftovers?

For a crisp finish, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Microwave briefly if in a hurry, but expect less crunch.

→ Are vegan or gluten-free versions possible?

Swap in plant-based sausage and gluten-free pastry as needed. Just adjust herbs and seasoning to taste for delicious alternatives.