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Easy Homemade Soft Pretzel Dogs

A close-up of several shiny, dark brown pretzel dogs stacked on a small white plate, sprinkled with coarse salt.
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Make soft and chewy pretzel dogs at home using a simple dough and the traditional baking soda bath for authentic flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 cup warm water (105-115 degrees F)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 12 all-beef hot dogs
  • 8 cups water
  • 1/2 cup baking soda
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Coarse pretzel salt, for topping

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Add the melted butter, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  3. Prepare the hot dogs: While the dough rises, pat the hot dogs dry with paper towels.
  4. Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 10 to 12 inches long. Wrap each dough rope around one hot dog, pinching the ends together firmly to seal.
  5. Prepare the bath: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large, shallow pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the 1/2 cup of baking soda. The water will foam.
  6. Dip the dogs: Carefully place one or two pretzel dogs into the baking soda bath for 30 seconds, turning once. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, allowing excess water to drip off. Place the dipped dogs on the prepared baking sheets.
  7. Bake: Brush the tops of the pretzel dogs evenly with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle generously with coarse pretzel salt. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through, until deep golden brown.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a cheesy version, wrap a thin slice of mozzarella or cheddar around the hot dog before wrapping it with the dough rope.
  • If you want mini pretzel dogs, cut the dough into smaller portions and use cocktail wieners. Reduce the baking time slightly.
  • Serve with warm cheese sauce or mustard for dipping.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hungryhearld.com/pretzel-dogs-easy-homemade-soft-recipe/