Soft Baked Cheesy Pretzel Dogs
Soft Baked Cheesy Pretzel Dogs are the ultimate comfort snack—warm, fluffy pretzel dough wrapped around savory hot dogs and gooey melted cheese, then baked to golden perfection. They’re perfect for kids’ lunches, game-day platters, parties, or anytime you want a bakery-style treat at home. The baking-soda bath gives them that classic pretzel flavor, while the cheese adds an irresistible richness inside every bite.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Dough Resting Time: 10 minutes
Shaping Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 14–16 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Dough
3 cups all-purpose flour
2¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm milk (about 40°C / 105°F)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
6–8 hot dogs or sausages (halved if large)
1½ cups cheddar or mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks or thick shreds
Baking Soda Bath
4 cups water
¼ cup baking soda
For Topping
1 egg, beaten (egg wash)
Coarse pretzel salt or sesame seeds
1 tbsp butter, melted (optional, for brushing)
Instructions
Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm milk and melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let the dough rest for 10 minutes. It won’t double fully, but it will relax and become easier to shape.
Prepare the Filling
Pat hot dogs dry. If using cheese sticks, cut them to match the length of the hot dogs.
Shape the Pretzel Dogs
Divide dough into 6–8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 30–35 cm / 12–14 inches).
Place cheese along the rope, then the hot dog on top. Wrap the dough around both, pinching seams tightly to seal so cheese doesn’t leak out.
Baking Soda Bath
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Bring water to a boil, add baking soda carefully. Dip each pretzel dog into the bath for 20–30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the tray.
Egg Wash & Top
Brush each pretzel dog with beaten egg. Sprinkle with coarse salt or sesame seeds.
Bake
Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until deep golden brown and puffed. For extra shine and flavor, brush with melted butter immediately after baking.
Serving Ideas
Serve with mustard, ketchup, or cheese sauce
Pair with coleslaw or fries for a full meal
Great for school lunches or freezer-friendly snacks
Final Thoughts
These Soft Baked Cheesy Pretzel Dogs deliver everything you love about pretzels—soft centers, chewy crusts, and that classic salty finish—plus juicy sausages and melty cheese inside. Easy, comforting, and guaranteed to disappear fast, they’re a must-try homemade snack for any occasion