Enjoy the perfect combination of hot dogs and soft pretzels with this homemade pretzel dog recipe. The pretzel dough is made from scratch and wrapped around juicy hot dog sausages. These pretzel dogs are then baked to golden perfection, giving them a delightful chewy texture on the outside and a moist and savory interior. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. Make these pretzel dogs at home for a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 10 hot dog sausages
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1 egg, beaten
- Coarse salt, for sprinkling
- Mustard, ketchup, or cheese sauce, for serving
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the salt and flour to the yeast mixture, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. Continue adding flour until the dough is slightly sticky but manageable.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, about 15 inches long.
- Wrap each rope of dough around a hot dog, pinching the ends to seal. Place the pretzel dogs onto the prepared baking sheet.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully place the pretzel dogs into the boiling water, 2-3 at a time, and boil for 30 seconds. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them back on the baking sheet.
- Brush the pretzel dogs with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown. Serve warm with mustard, ketchup, or cheese sauce.
Interesting Facts
Pretzels have been enjoyed since ancient times and were originally created by monks in the Middle Ages as a reward for children who learned their prayers.
The term 'pretzel' comes from the Latin word 'pretiola,' which means 'little reward.'
In the United States, pretzels are often associated with Pennsylvania Dutch culture, where they were brought by German immigrants.
Pretzel dogs are a popular snack at sporting events and carnivals in America, and can also be found in many fast food restaurants.