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Easy Homemade Pretzel Dogs (Oven and Air Fryer)

Three freshly cooked pretzel dogs with a dark, shiny crust and coarse salt, resting on a white plate.
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Make incredible, chewy pretzel dogs at home using a simple dough recipe. These are perfect for game day snacks or a fun family dinner, and you get instructions for both oven baking and air frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 package (about 14.1 ounces) all-beef hot dogs or smoked 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 small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and the melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare the hot dogs: While the dough rises, pat the hot dogs dry with paper towels. If you want cheesy pretzel dogs, slice a small pocket into each hot dog and insert a small strip of cheddar or mozzarella cheese.
  5. Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 10 inches long. Wrap each rope around a hot dog, pinching the ends together firmly to seal.
  6. Prepare the baking soda bath: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a shallow dish, mix the 1/2 cup of baking soda with 4 cups of hot water.
  7. Dip and salt: Working one at a time, dip each pretzel-wrapped hot dog into the baking soda bath for about 30 seconds, turning to coat both sides. Lift the dog out, letting excess water drip off, and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Apply egg wash and salt: Brush the tops of the dipped dogs with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle generously with coarse pretzel salt.
  9. Bake: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the pretzel dogs are deep golden brown.
  10. Air Fryer Method (Optional): Place 2-3 pretzel dogs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Brush lightly with egg wash and sprinkle with salt. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
  11. Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For a copycat mall pretzel dog flavor, use a small amount of melted butter brushed over the hot dogs immediately after they come out of the oven.
  • If you are short on time, you can substitute the homemade dough with store-bought pizza dough, cutting it into strips and wrapping as directed.
  • Serve these with a simple dipping sauce made from mixing equal parts Dijon mustard and honey.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/easy-homemade-pretzel-dogs-oven-air-fryer/