Pretzel Dogs

Pretzel Dogs are a fun and delicious twist on traditional hot dogs, wrapped in soft pretzel dough and baked to perfection. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner, these tasty treats are sure to please both kids and adults alike. The combination of savory sausage franks with the warm, chewy pretzel crust makes them an irresistible snack or meal option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up these Pretzel Dogs in no time.
• Fun for All Ages: Kids will love helping to wrap the sausages in dough, making it a delightful family activity.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or part of a main meal. They pair well with various dips and sides.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a casual get-together, these Pretzel Dogs fit right in.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of salty pretzels and savory sausages creates a flavor explosion that everyone will enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pretzel Dogs perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline the process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Pizza cutter
• Large saucepan
• Slotted spoon
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness when rolling out the pizza dough for wrapping.
• Large saucepan: Necessary for boiling the pretzel-wrapped sausages to achieve that signature texture.
• Slotted spoon: Helps remove the pretzel dogs from boiling water without losing their shape.

Ingredients

Learn how to make mouthwatering Pretzel Dogs at home. They are made with sausage franks wrapped in pretzel dough and baked until golden. It is a delicious appetizer or meal that both kids and adults will love!

For the Pretzel Dogs

• 15 sausage franks or hot dogs
• 1 tube (13.8 ounces) pizza dough
• 5 cups water
• ¼ cup (55 g) baking soda
• 1 large egg (room temperature, beaten)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

How to Make Pretzel Dogs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Remove the pizza dough from the package and place it onto a cutting board. Using a rolling pin:
1. Roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick.
2. Cut the rolled-out dough into 15 strips using a pizza cutter.

Step 3: Wrap the Sausages

For each strip of dough:
1. Roll it into a rope.
2. Tightly wrap it around each sausage frank from end to end.
3. Pinch the ends together to seal them securely.

Step 4: Boil the Pretzel Dogs

In a large saucepan over medium heat:
1. Add water and bring it to a light boil.
2. Stir in the baking soda until fully dissolved.
3. In batches of 3-4, add each wrapped sausage to the boiling water for about 20-30 seconds.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Before baking:
1. Use a pastry brush to coat each pretzel dog with the beaten egg evenly.
2. Sprinkle kosher salt over each one.

Finally, bake for 20-21 minutes or until golden brown.

Servings: 15 (15 pretzel dogs)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 202 kcal

How to Serve Pretzel Dogs

Pretzel Dogs are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a casual family dinner or a party appetizer, these pretzel-wrapped sausages are sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Dipping Sauces

• Cheddar Cheese Sauce – A creamy, cheesy dip that pairs perfectly with the salty pretzel exterior.
• Mustard – Classic yellow mustard or spicy Dijon adds a tangy kick that complements the flavors.
• Ketchup – A favorite among kids, ketchup provides sweetness that balances the savory sausage.

Accompanied by Fresh Vegetables

• Carrot Sticks – Crunchy and refreshing, they add a healthy touch to your meal.
• Celery Sticks – Crisp celery is another great option, perfect for dipping into sauces.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, they offer a burst of flavor alongside your Pretzel Dogs.

Served with Pickles

• Dill Pickles – Their sourness contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the Pretzel Dogs.
• Pickle Chips – Easy to grab and enjoy, they make a fantastic side for any gathering.

How to Perfect Pretzel Dogs

Making perfect Pretzel Dogs involves attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Choose Quality Sausages – Select high-quality sausage franks for the best flavor. Consider turkey or beef varieties for variety.
• Roll Dough Evenly – Ensure your pizza dough is rolled out evenly. This helps in achieving uniform cooking and texture.
• Boil Briefly but Effectively – Don’t skip the boiling step; it’s crucial for developing that classic pretzel crust.
• Use Egg Wash Generously – Applying an egg wash not only adds color but also gives a beautiful shine to your Pretzel Dogs.
• Experiment with Toppings – Try adding sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning before baking for an extra crunch and flavor boost.

Best Side Dishes for Pretzel Dogs

Pairing side dishes with Pretzel Dogs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that work well together.

1. Coleslaw – A crunchy and creamy salad that adds freshness and balances the richness of the dogs.
2. Potato Wedges – Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they add heartiness to your meal.
3. Macaroni Salad – Creamy macaroni salad provides comfort food vibes alongside your Pretzel Dogs.
4. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn is sweet and flavorful, making it an excellent summer side dish.
5. Baked Beans – The sweetness of baked beans complements the savory taste of Pretzel Dogs well.
6. Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing option that brings sweetness to balance out savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pretzel Dogs can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Bold Dough Thickness: If the dough is too thick, it won’t cook properly. Aim for a ¼-inch thickness for even baking.
• Bold Water Boiling Time: Overboiling the pretzel-wrapped sausages can make them tough. Stick to 20-30 seconds per batch.
• Bold Improper Sealing: Failing to seal the ends of the dough can lead to unraveling during baking. Pinch the ends tightly before boiling.
• Bold Skipping Egg Wash: Neglecting the egg wash results in dull-looking pretzel dogs. Brush each one for a beautiful, golden finish.
• Bold Not Preheating Oven: Baking without preheating can affect texture and color. Always preheat your oven to 425°F before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pretzel Dogs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pretzel Dogs

• Wrap each pretzel dog tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pretzel Dogs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-45 seconds, but note that they may become soft.
• Stovetop: Warm on a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pretzel Dogs.

How do I make Pretzel Dogs gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pizza dough instead of traditional dough for gluten-free Pretzel Dogs.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with chicken, turkey, or beef sausages for a variation on classic Pretzel Dogs.

What dipping sauces go well with Pretzel Dogs?

Mustard, cheese sauce, or even a tangy barbecue sauce pair wonderfully with Pretzel Dogs.

How long does it take to make Pretzel Dogs?

The entire process takes about 35 minutes from start to finish, making them a quick and fun option!

Final Thoughts

Pretzel Dogs are not only tasty but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various sausages and dips. Whether as an appetizer or main dish, they’re sure to please everyone at your table. Give this recipe a try!