Soft Baked Cheesy Pretzel Dogs
Golden, chewy pretzel dough wrapped around juicy hot dogs and melty cheese
Soft Baked Cheesy Pretzel Dogs are the ultimate comfort snack—everything you love about soft pretzels and hot dogs combined into one irresistible bite. They feature a fluffy, chewy pretzel exterior with that signature deep golden color, wrapped snugly around a savory hot dog and a core of gooey melted cheese. Whether served as an appetizer, a game-day snack, or even a fun dinner, these pretzel dogs are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Making them at home is far easier than you might think. The secret lies in a simple yeast dough, a quick baking-soda bath that gives pretzels their classic flavor and color, and the right technique for wrapping and sealing the cheese so it melts without leaking out.
Ingredients (makes 8 pretzel dogs)
For the pretzel dough
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (about 43°C / 110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling
- 8 hot dogs (beef, chicken, or turkey)
- 8 sticks mozzarella or cheddar cheese (string cheese works perfectly)
For the baking soda bath
- 6 cups water
- 1/4 cup baking soda
For topping
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing after baking)
For serving (optional)
- Mustard
- Cheese sauce
- Ketchup
Step 1: Activate the yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5–7 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to give the dough its soft, fluffy texture.
Once foamy, add the melted butter and salt, then gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead and rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. If the dough sticks too much, sprinkle in a little extra flour.
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This rise gives the pretzel dogs their signature light interior.
Step 3: Prepare the hot dogs and cheese
While the dough rises, pat the hot dogs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut each cheese stick in half lengthwise if they are very thick—this helps prevent cheese leakage during baking.
Using a small knife, carefully slit each hot dog lengthwise and insert the cheese inside. Press gently so the cheese fits snugly.
Step 4: Shape the pretzel dogs
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope about 35–40 cm (14–16 inches) long.
Wrap each dough rope tightly around a cheese-filled hot dog, starting at one end and spiraling to the other, slightly overlapping the dough with each wrap. Pinch the ends firmly to seal.
Step 5: Baking soda bath
In a wide pot, bring 6 cups of water to a gentle boil. Add the baking soda carefully—it will bubble vigorously.
Using tongs, lower each wrapped pretzel dog into the baking soda bath for 20–30 seconds, turning once. This bath is what gives pretzels their chewy texture and deep golden color.
Remove and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Egg wash and topping
Brush each pretzel dog with egg wash and sprinkle generously with coarse salt or pretzel salt. This adds flavor and that classic pretzel look.
Step 7: Bake to perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the pretzel dogs are puffed and deeply golden brown. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even coloring.
As soon as they come out of the oven, brush lightly with melted butter for extra shine and flavor.
Serving suggestions
Serve the pretzel dogs warm, when the cheese inside is perfectly melted and stretchy. Pair them with mustard for a classic flavor, cheese sauce for extra indulgence, or ketchup for a nostalgic touch.
They’re perfect on their own, but also pair wonderfully with coleslaw, potato wedges, or a crisp green salad.
Tips for success
- Seal the dough tightly to prevent cheese leaks.
- Don’t skip the baking soda bath—it’s essential for authentic pretzel flavor.
- If cheese leaks slightly, don’t worry—it adds delicious crispy edges.
Variations
- Spicy pretzel dogs: Add jalapeño slices with the cheese.
- Everything pretzel dogs: Top with everything bagel seasoning instead of salt.
- Mini pretzel dogs: Cut hot dogs in half for bite-sized versions.
Conclusion
Soft Baked Cheesy Pretzel Dogs combine chewy pretzel dough, savory hot dogs, and molten cheese into one unforgettable snack. They’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and always a hit with kids and adults alike. Once you try them homemade, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.