Mini Pretzel Dogs Ingredients: ¾ cup warm water 2 teaspoons sugar 1½ teaspoons active dry yeast 2¼ cups flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon butter, melted 10 cups water ? cup baking soda 1 package Lil’ Smokies sausages 1 large egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water, whisked together Coarse salt (Jacobsen salt recommended) Directions: Prepare Dough: In a large bowl (or stand mixer bowl), combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let stand for 5 minutes, until foamy. Add flour, salt, and melted butter, then mix until combined. Knead for 5–10 minutes, until dough is smooth and pliable. Shape into a ball, place in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone liner and spray with cooking spray. Boil Baking Soda Water: In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil. Shape and Roll Pretzel Dogs: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 3 equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into a 12-inch circle. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut each circle into 12 wedges. Place a Lil’ Smokie at the wide end of each wedge and roll it up, sealing the end with your fingers. Boil and Bake Pretzel Dogs: Working in batches, place the wrapped pretzel dogs into the boiling baking soda water for 30–60 seconds, then remove and place on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour rise time) Cooking Time: 12 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes Kcal: 110 kcal per mini pretzel dog Servings: 36 mini pretzel dogs These Mini Pretzel Dogs are a fun and tasty twist on classic pretzels, perfect for parties, game day, or as a delicious snack! Wrapped in homemade pretzel dough and filled with savory Lil’ Smokies, each bite is both chewy and flavorful. The baking soda bath gives these mini dogs a beautifully golden, crisp exterior, while the soft dough inside makes them a crowd-pleasing comfort food. With their attractive golden color and irresistible aroma, these Mini Pretzel Dogs are sure to impress. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, and watch them disappear in minutes. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a cozy snack, these bite-sized delights are always a hit.
