Gourmet Pigs in a Blanket

I liked to say this is a heart attack on a plate, but who cares?  It is completely random that I made these for dinner one night, but I had to try it.  These little piggies would definitely be a crowd pleaser and I suggest serving them to more than just two people.  If you don't, you'll get quite the stomach ache.

Gourmet Pigs in a Blanket

2 lbs (about 60) mini hots dogs

Cheddar cheese, cut into small pieces, optional

1 large egg

Flour, for working with pastry dough

1 box of puff pastry, or two sheets of homemade puff pastry, thawed

poppy seeds or sesame seeds, optional

1. Preheat oven to 450ºF.

2. Slice all hot dogs about 3/4 of the way length-wise and put a small piece of cheese inside the hot dog. If you're not using the cheese, just poke the hot dogs a couple time with a fork.

3. On a lightly floured surface, roll one sheet of puff pastry at a time into a 11x14 inch rectangle. Cut lengthwise into 7 1 1/2 strips, then cut each strip into 4 rectangles, each about 3 inches long.

4. In a small bowl, beat together the egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or baking mat (I am out of parchment so I just sprayed my sheets with some baking spray). Wrap each hot dog with a piece of the puff pastry. Using a pastry brush, brush the top with the egg wash and then sprinkle with poppy or sesame seeds. Chill the baking sheet of hot dogs in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

5. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until puffed and golden.