For a unique and tasty appetizer, try these “Donkey Balls”—a playful name for a delicious treat! These savory bites are made with crescent rolls filled with a creamy, sausage mixture. Perfect for parties, these little balls are packed with flavor and are sure to be a hit with guests.
Donkey Balls: A Savory Crescent Roll Appetizer
Easy to make and fun to eat, this recipe combines buttery crescent rolls with a rich and savory filling for a delightful snack that’s great for any gathering.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 8-14 minutes
Total Time: 28-34 minutes
Servings: Makes about 40-48 balls
Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients:
- 2 packages buttery-flavored crescent rolls
- 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature (do not use fat-free)
- 1 package Jimmy Dean sausage (standard size)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 small onion, minced
Directions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the crescent roll package (usually around 375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Cook Sausage Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage with the garlic powder and minced onion until the sausage is browned and lightly crispy. Drain the sausage mixture to remove excess fat, but there’s no need to rinse it.
- Prepare Filling Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese with the cooked sausage mixture. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Prepare Crescent Rolls: Unroll the crescent dough and separate it along the perforated lines. Cut each triangle in half to make smaller triangles. Place a teaspoon of the sausage and cream cheese mixture on each triangle.
- Form Balls: Wrap the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal and form little balls. Ensure the mixture is completely enclosed to prevent leakage during baking.
- Bake: Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning the bottoms. Depending on their size and your oven, they may need to bake longer, up to 14 minutes, as noted by some reviewers.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the balls to cool on the baking sheet for about 3 minutes before serving.
These Donkey Balls are a playful and delicious addition to any snack table. They combine the comforting flavors of sausage and cream cheese with the light, flaky texture of crescent rolls, creating a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the fun name and even more delightful taste!