Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the cheese into strips and wrap them around each hot dog, securing the ends as needed.
- Roll out the pizza or pretzel dough and cut it into long strips.
- Firmly wrap the dough around each cheese-wrapped hot dog, making sure to seal the ends well.
- In a pot, bring the water to a boil and carefully stir in the baking soda.
- Drop each wrapped pretzel dog into the boiling water for about 20–30 seconds, then use tongs to remove and drain them.
- Place the pretzel dogs on the baking sheet, brush with the beaten egg, and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until they turn a deep golden brown.
- If desired, brush with melted butter before serving warm.
Best ways to enjoy it
Soft Baked Cheesy Pretzel Dogs are incredibly versatile. Serve them hot with a side of mustard and ketchup for dipping, or elevate your game with gourmet sauces like spicy aioli or cheese dip. Pair them with a crisp side salad, sweet potato fries, or classic coleslaw for a fun meal. For themed gatherings, consider offering different toppings or sauces, allowing guests to customize their own dogs!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store any leftover Soft Baked Cheesy Pretzel Dogs, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to keep them for longer, they freeze beautifully! Just wrap each pretzel dog in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some quick tips to help ensure your Soft Baked Cheesy Pretzel Dogs turn out perfectly:
- Make sure to seal the dough tightly around the hot dog to prevent any cheese leaks.
- For an even chewier texture, you can leave the wrapped dogs in the baking soda bath slightly longer, but be cautious not to overdo it.
- If you don’t have baking soda, you can get creative by using store-bought pretzel dough for a simpler but just as tasty option.
Creative twists
Feel free to let your imagination run wild with variations on this recipe! You can experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or even cream cheese for a decadent twist. Mixing in herbs and spices into the dough can also add intriguing flavors. Consider adding toppings like everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds before baking. For a sweet version, swap the hot dogs for apple sausages and drizzle with cinnamon sugar for a fun dessert option!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare Soft Baked Cheesy Pretzel Dogs?
Overall, you can whip these up in about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making them a quick and satisfying option for any meal.
Can I use other types of dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! While pizza and pretzel dough are classics, you can also use crescent roll dough for a flakier texture or even puff pastry for a fun spin.
Are there any vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Definitely! You can switch regular hot dogs for plant-based ones and use gluten-free pizza or pretzel dough to cater to dietary needs.
