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Ultimate Homemade Pretzel Dogs with Baking Soda Bath

A close-up of a freshly baked pretzel dog showing the browned, salted crust and the savory sausage filling inside.
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Make soft, chewy pretzel dogs at home using a simple dough and the essential baking soda bath for authentic color and flavor. This recipe works for full-size dogs or mini versions.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • 12 all-beef hot dogs or cocktail sausages
  • 1/2 cup baking soda (for the bath)
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Coarse pretzel salt, for topping

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
  3. Prepare the hot dogs: While the dough rises, pat the hot dogs dry. If making full-size dogs, cut each hot dog in half lengthwise for better wrapping coverage, or leave cocktail sausages whole.
  4. Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 8-inch rope. Wrap each hot dog tightly with a dough rope, twisting slightly if desired. Pinch the ends to seal.
  5. Prepare the baking soda bath: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a wide, shallow dish, mix the baking soda into 8 cups of hot water.
  6. Dip the dogs: Working in batches, carefully dip each wrapped hot dog into the baking soda solution for 30 seconds. Lift out and place immediately on the prepared baking sheets.
  7. Finish and bake: Brush the dipped dogs with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle generously with coarse pretzel salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating sheets halfway through, until deep golden brown.

Notes

  • For Cheesy Pretzel Dogs: Before wrapping the hot dog, wrap a slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese around the sausage first.
  • For Mini Pretzel Dogs Appetizer: Use cocktail sausages and cut the dough ropes into shorter lengths. Reduce baking time slightly.
  • Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as spicy brown mustard or warm cheese sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kingscook.com/homemade-pretzel-dogs-recipe/