Description
These Soft Baked Cheesy Pretzel Dogs are a delicious twist on classic pretzels combined with savory hot dogs and melty cheese. Wrapped in a soft, golden-brown pretzel dough and sprinkled with coarse sea salt, they make a perfect snack or meal that’s irresistible for all ages.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Filling Ingredients
- 8 hot dogs
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active and ready for dough making.
- Make the dough: Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Knead the mixture until a smooth, elastic dough forms, about 7-10 minutes by hand or with a mixer.
- Let the dough rise: Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm area. Allow it to rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
- Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Shape the pretzel dogs: Divide the risen dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then wrap each rope completely around a hot dog, placing them seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Boil with baking soda bath: Bring 10 cups of water to a boil in a large pot and add baking soda. Carefully lower each pretzel dog into the boiling baking soda water for 30 seconds. This step gives the pretzels their characteristic chewy crust.
- Prepare for baking: Remove the pretzel dogs from the boiling water with a slotted spoon and place them back on the baking sheet.
- Add toppings: Brush each pretzel dog with the beaten egg to create a glossy finish. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt evenly.
- Bake: Bake the pretzel dogs for 12-15 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown, indicating they are fully cooked and crisp on the outside.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with cheese sauce, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauces for an extra cheesy, flavorful experience.
Notes
- Ensure the water temperature for activating the yeast is between 110°F and 115°F to prevent killing the yeast.
- The baking soda bath is crucial for that authentic pretzel crust and flavor.
- You can customize the cheese type to your preference or omit it for plain pretzel dogs.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to avoid sticking during baking.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture; leftovers can be reheated in the oven.
