Name: Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 12 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup soy sauce; ⅓ cup vegetable stock or water; ¼ cup rice vinegar; ½-1 teaspoon liquid smoke; 4 cloves garlic, minced or smashed; 1 ½ teaspoons fresh ginger (optional); ¼ teaspoon white pepper; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 1 Tablespoon sesame oil; 1 Tablespoon brown sugar (optional); 16 ounces baby carrots; 16 ounces crescent rolls (2 packages); Everything but the Bagel Seasoning (optional)

If you’re craving a playful twist on a classic snack, you’re going to love this Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket Recipe. It’s surprisingly simple, packed full of flavor, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a meatless version of that nostalgic comfort food. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll see how carrots can transform into the ultimate vegan “pigs in a blanket” that everyone will go crazy for!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deliciously Meaty Flavor: The marinade infuses the carrots with smoky, savory goodness that mimics the classic pigs in a blanket taste.
Simple Ingredients: Easy-to-find staples come together for a crowd-pleasing appetizer without complicated steps.
Kid-Friendly and Fun: Perfect for family gatherings or parties where kids and adults alike can enjoy a plant-based treat.
Make-Ahead Magic: The overnight marinade means the flavor develops deeply, and you can prep ahead of time to save stress.

Small crescent rolls wrapped around bite-sized sausages form a circle on a white plate sitting on a white marbled surface. The crescent rolls are golden brown with a soft flaky texture and are sprinkled with sesame seeds and black poppy seeds. In the middle of the circle is a small metal cup filled with smooth red ketchup. A woman's hand is seen dipping one of the crescent rolls halfway into the ketchup. In the blurred background, there is a glass of amber-colored drink and a little stack of white plates. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket, plant-based pigs in a blanket, vegan appetizer recipes, healthy party snacks, vegan finger foods

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe combines simple pantry staples with fresh baby carrots and flaky crescent roll dough that wraps everything up perfectly. Each ingredient has its role in creating that balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors you’ll adore.

Flat lay of fresh whole baby carrots with vibrant orange skins, four peeled garlic cloves, a small pile of peeled fresh ginger root, a small white bowl of dark soy sauce, a small white bowl of clear vegetable stock, a small white bowl of pale rice vinegar, a small white bowl of golden sesame oil, a small white bowl of light brown granulated sugar, a small white bowl of ground white pepper powder, a small white bowl of onion powder, a simple white ceramic plate holding unbaked crescent roll dough triangles, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket, plant-based pigs in a blanket, vegan appetizer recipes, healthy party snacks, vegan finger foods

Soy sauce: Adds that umami depth and saltiness crucial for the marinade.
Vegetable stock or water: Keeps the marinade balanced without overpowering flavors.
Rice vinegar: Brings a subtle acidity to brighten up the marinade.
Liquid smoke: That magic ingredient for smoky notes without any actual smoke.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic amps up the savory profile.
Fresh ginger: Optional but wonderful for a hint of warmth and zest.
White pepper: Gentle heat that complements but doesn’t overpower.
Onion powder: Adds depth and subtle sweetness.
Sesame oil: Provides a nutty layer and rich aroma.
Brown sugar: Optional, but I love how it balances the savory with a touch of sweetness.
Baby carrots: The star of the show—these get transformed into “carrot dogs.”
Crescent rolls: Flaky, tender dough that wraps the flavorful carrots perfectly.
Everything but the Bagel Seasoning: Optional, but it adds an irresistible crunch and extra flavor.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love making this Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket Recipe my own by playing with a few tweaks depending on the occasion or what I have on hand. Feel free to get creative and customize it your way!

Spicy Kick: I sometimes add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat that wakes up the palate.
Herb Infusion: Adding fresh chopped rosemary or thyme to the dough before baking gives a lovely earthy aroma that complements the carrots.
Gluten-Free: Swap crescent rolls with gluten-free puff pastry for those avoiding gluten – just watch the baking times closely.
Vegan Cheese Dip: Serve with a homemade vegan cheese sauce or spicy mustard for an extra yummy dip.

How to Make Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Baby Carrots Overnight for Maximum Flavor

Whisk together the soy sauce, vegetable stock or water, rice vinegar, liquid smoke, minced garlic, fresh ginger if using, white pepper, onion powder, sesame oil, and brown sugar to create a rich marinade. I discovered that letting the baby carrots sit submerged in this mixture for at least 8 hours (overnight ideally) makes a world of difference in flavor depth. Stir occasionally if they float on top to ensure even marinating. If you’re short on time, try marinating for a couple of hours but cook the carrots a bit longer to soak up more taste.

Step 2: Cook the Carrots Till Tender and Flavor-Infused

Place the carrots and marinade into a large saucepan, adding extra water if needed so the carrots are fully covered. Bring to a boil and simmer gently for about 7-10 minutes or until the carrots are tender but not mushy. This step softens the carrots while locking in that smoky, garlicky flavor I love. Drain and cool them enough to handle comfortably for the rolling step.

Step 3: Wrap and Season with Everything but the Bagel

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Separate the crescent rolls carefully and slice each piece into 2-3 strips depending on desired size. Place one marinated carrot on the wide end of the dough strip and roll tightly until fully wrapped. I always sprinkle “Everything but the Bagel” seasoning on top before baking – it adds that final punch of texture and flavor that makes them irresistible.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Mouthwatering

Bake the rolled carrots for 12-15 minutes until the rolls are beautifully golden brown and flaky. You’ll know they’re ready when that lovely aroma fills your kitchen and the dough feels crisp to the touch. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce – I’m partial to spicy mustard or vegan ranch!

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Pro Tips for Making Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

Marinate Longer for Depth: Leaving the carrots in the marinade overnight produces a far richer, smoky flavor than a few hours.
Watch Cooking Times: Don’t overcook the carrots — they should be tender but still hold their shape so they roll easily.
Seal the Dough Well: Make sure dough edges are pinched tightly to prevent unrolling during baking.
Use Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

How to Serve Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

A white plate is filled with small crescent rolls wrapped around mini sausages, each topped with a sprinkle of white sesame seeds and black poppy seeds. The rolls are golden brown and flaky with the reddish sausages peeking out from the ends. To the top right of the plate, there is a small silver container filled with bright red ketchup. In the background, there is a glass of amber beer and another bowl. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket, plant-based pigs in a blanket, vegan appetizer recipes, healthy party snacks, vegan finger foods

Garnishes

I love garnishing these with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a fresh note. A little drizzle of your favorite vegan mustard or spicy ketchup completes the look and taste perfectly. If you want extra crunch, a dash of “Everything but the Bagel” seasoning on top right out of the oven always does the trick!

Side Dishes

My go-to sides here are tangy cole slaw or a crisp green salad to cut through the richness of the crescent roll. Roasted potatoes or even sweet potato fries pair beautifully for a heartier meal. For dipping, try vegan ranch, spicy mustard, or a smoky BBQ sauce – it’s all about what you love!

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like arranging these Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket Recipe around a bowl of dipping sauce on a rustic wooden board, garnished with herbs for a cozy vibe. I’ve also made mini versions using baby crescent roll pieces—perfect bite-sized snacks for game day or potlucks. Presentation-wise, feel free to get fun with colorful dipping sauces in small ramekins or add edible flowers for a fancy touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The crescent roll dough stays nicely soft yet still tastes delicious warmed up. Before storing, let them cool completely to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

Freezing works great for these! After baking, allow them to cool, then layer with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. I’ve found they freeze beautifully for up to a month. When you want a quick snack, just pop them in the oven straight from frozen and bake a little longer until heated through.

Reheating

To keep the dough flaky and avoid sogginess, reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes instead of microwaving. This way, the outside crisps back up and the carrots inside stay tender and flavorful.

FAQs

Is this Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket Recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the fun shape and mild, slightly sweet flavor of the marinated carrots wrapped in golden dough. It’s a great way to sneak in veggies with a familiar favorite.
Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?

You can, but baby carrots work best because they are the perfect size and texture to roll and bite into. If using regular carrots, peel and cut them into thin, uniform sticks and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the crescent rolls with your favorite gluten-free pastry dough or gluten-free crescent roll alternatives. Be mindful of baking times as gluten-free dough may vary.
What dipping sauces pair best with these?

Spicy mustard, vegan ranch, BBQ sauce, or even a tangy vegan cheese dip all pair wonderfully. Pick one that suits your taste or offer a variety for dipping fun!
How long can I marinate the carrots?

Ideally, marinate for 8-24 hours in the fridge for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, at least a couple of hours works but the flavor won’t be quite as pronounced.

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this Vegan Carrot Pigs in a Blanket Recipe, I was blown away by how deliciously familiar yet fresh it felt. It’s such an easy, crowd-pleasing way to enjoy a classic treat with a wholesome plant-based twist. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a party, or just craving something fun and tasty, I can’t recommend this enough. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite vegan snack!