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This classic Mary Berry Sausage Roll recipe embodies the charm of British cuisine with its flaky puff pastry and well-seasoned sausage meat. Perfect as a versatile treat, these rolls can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them a staple for any occasion. Whether for a picnic, buffet, or quick snack, they are irresistibly delicious.
Perfect British Party Appetizer
Mary Berry Sausage Rolls bring simplicity and flavor together effortlessly. They offer a perfect balance of flaky pastry and herby sausage filling, satisfying for all ages. Easy to make, these rolls can be frozen, customized with regional flavors, and served in various settings, from elegant parties to casual brunches.
Gather Your Essential Ingredients
- Sausage Meat: 8 oz (227g) premium Cumberland or Lincolnshire sausage meat, room temperature (65°F/18°C), removed from casings, with visible herb specks and 20% fat content for optimal flavor and texture
- Cheddar Cheese: 1/3 cup (2 oz/57g) mature cheddar, freshly grated, aged minimum 12 months for sharp flavor, at cool room temperature for easy mixing
- Fresh Herbs: 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (stripped from stems) or fresh sage (finely chopped), bright green and aromatic
- Large Eggs: 1 fresh egg at room temperature (65°F/18°C), thoroughly beaten until completely blended for even glazing
- Puff Pastry: 1 sheet (approximately 320g) all-butter puff pastry, chilled but pliable (40°F/4°C), thickness 2-3mm for proper layering
Making Perfect Sausage Rolls
- Set Up Your Workspace
- Preheat oven to exactly 200°C/400°F (180°C fan/350°F). Position rack in middle. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Ensure work surface is cool (65°F/18°C) for pastry handling.
- Create Flavorful Filling
- Break sausage meat into small pieces (pea-sized). Mix thoroughly with grated cheese and fresh herbs until evenly distributed. Season with 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Internal temperature should be below 40°F/4°C.
- Prepare Pastry Base
- Roll pastry on lightly floured surface to exactly 25x48cm (10x19in), 2-3mm thickness. Cut into 6 equal rectangles 8x25cm (3x10in). Keep unused portions chilled while working.
- Shape Perfect Rolls
- Divide filling into 6 portions (60g each). Shape into 25cm logs. Place 1cm from long edge of pastry. Brush edges with beaten egg. Fold pastry over, seal with fork tines at 1cm intervals. Ensure internal temperature stays below 40°F/4°C.
- Final Preparation
- Cut each roll into 5-6 pieces at 45-degree angle. Score tops decoratively. Brush thoroughly with beaten egg. Rest 10 minutes at 40°F/4°C if pastry feels warm.
- Bake To Perfection
- Bake 25-30 minutes at 200°C/400°F (180°C fan) until golden brown (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Cool 5 minutes before serving.
Tips For Best Results
You can adapt this recipe to suit regional tastes. Use sage or fennel for unique flavors, or swap puff pastry for shortcrust for a heartier roll. Store rolls in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
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Delicious Serving Ideas
Sausage rolls are versatile and pair well with a variety of accompaniments. Serve with dipping sauces like sweet chili or mustard for added flavor. For kids, pair with chips and a milkshake. Australians enjoy them with ketchup, while Americans prefer ranch dressing or barbecue sauce for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these sausage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them ahead and freeze them unbaked for up to 3 months. Just thaw completely before baking for the best results.
- → What type of sausage meat works best?
Traditional British sausage meat is ideal, but Cumberland or Lincolnshire sausages work great too. Just remove the meat from the casings before using.
- → Why should I chill the rolls before baking?
Chilling helps firm up the pastry, resulting in flakier, crispier rolls that hold their shape better while baking.
- → Can I make them bigger or smaller?
Absolutely! You can cut them into any size you prefer. Just adjust the baking time - smaller rolls need less time, larger ones need more.
- → What sauces go well with these sausage rolls?
They're delicious with classic dips like mustard, ketchup, BBQ sauce, or sweet chili sauce. Serve them warm or at room temperature.