1. Prepare the Sausage Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground pork sausage meat, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and grated apple (if using). Mix until well combined.
2. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets into two rectangles. Cut each rectangle into two or three long strips, depending on how large you want your sausage rolls to be.
4. Assemble the Sausage Rolls:
- Divide the sausage mixture among the puff pastry strips, placing a generous line of filling down the center of each strip.
- Brush one edge of each strip with the beaten egg, then fold the pastry over the filling to enclose it. Press down to seal the edge.
- Cut each long sausage roll into smaller pieces, about 1 to 2 inches long. Make a couple of small slits on the top of each roll to allow steam to escape.
- Place the sausage rolls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Brush the tops with more beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds if desired.
5. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
6. Serving:
- Serve the Christmas sausage rolls warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed on their own or with dipping sauces such as mustard, ketchup, or a cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
These Christmas Sausage Rolls are not only a tasty treat but also evoke the cozy and celebratory spirit of the season with their aromatic spices and satisfying flavors. They’re perfect for making ahead of time and can be easily reheated, making your holiday entertaining a breeze. Enjoy sharing these delightful bites with family and friends over the holiday season!