Pretzel Dog from Auntie Anne's features a savory all-beef hot dog wrapped in a soft, golden-brown pretzel dough, baked to perfection with a sprinkling of coarse salt, delivering a satisfying blend of chewy and salty flavors.
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Dough roller (rolling pin)
- Knife or dough cutter
- Pastry brush
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Slotted spoon
- Cooling rack
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 count) all-beef hot dogs
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- Coarse salt
Your all-beef hot dogs should be fresh and of good quality to maintain the authentic Auntie Anne's flavor. Active dry yeast must be properly activated in warm water with sugar to ensure the pretzel dough rises correctly. Baking soda in the boiling water bath is essential for achieving the classic pretzel crust texture and color. Use coarse salt generously to enhance the salty flavor contrast against the soft pretzel dough. Pretzel Dog from Auntie Anne's copycat menu perfectly replicates the iconic chewy dough and savory all-beef hot dog combination, delivering the same satisfying taste experience.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water.
- Add sugar; let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and melted butter.
- Mix and knead dough until smooth.
- Place dough in greased bowl; cover and let rise 1 hour or until doubled.
- Punch down dough; divide into 8 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a long rope.
- Wrap each rope around a hot dog, pinching ends to seal.
- In large pot, bring 10 cups water and baking soda to boil.
- Using slotted spoon, carefully dip each wrapped hot dog into boiling water for 30 seconds.
- Place pretzel dogs on prepared baking sheet.
- In small bowl, whisk egg yolk and 1 tablespoon water.
- Brush pretzel dogs with egg wash.
- Sprinkle coarse salt over each pretzel dog.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oven; use tongs to place on cooling rack.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
Pretzel Dog from Auntie Anne's copycat menu captures the iconic golden-brown, chewy pretzel dough wrapped around a savory all-beef hot dog, topped with coarse salt for an authentic taste. You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour to create a slightly denser and more nutritious dough while maintaining a similar texture. If fresh yeast is unavailable, use instant yeast as a one-to-one replacement without proofing, simplifying the process. When baking soda is hard to measure or unavailable, a pinch of baking powder won't replicate the traditional pretzel flavor but can help achieve some browning and lift. For brushing, melted butter can be replaced with olive oil to introduce a subtle flavor variation if preferred.
Tips
Make sure your warm water for yeast is between 100degF and 110degF to activate the yeast properly without killing it. When boiling the pretzel dogs in the baking soda water, do not overcrowd the pot to ensure each gets the right texture. Use the egg wash evenly for a glossy, golden-brown finish and brush it gently to avoid deflating the dough. Let your pretzel dogs cool slightly on a rack before serving to maintain crispiness without becoming soggy.
Nutritions
Pretzel Dogs from Auntie Anne's provide a hearty snack with protein from the all-beef hot dogs and carbohydrates from the soft pretzel dough made with all-purpose flour. The baking process adds minimal fat, with only a small amount of unsalted butter contributing to the calorie content. Coarse salt on top offers sodium that enhances flavor but should be consumed in moderation. Your energy needs can be complemented by this satisfying blend of chewy pretzel and savory meat, making it a convenient treat for occasional indulgence.
Storage
Store your Auntie Anne's Pretzel Dogs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their soft texture and flavor. For longer storage, freeze the pretzel dogs individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag; reheat in a preheated oven at 350degF (177degC) for 10-15 minutes for best results. Avoid refrigerating as it may cause the pretzel dough to become tough and chewy.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap all-beef hot dogs for spicy chorizo or smoked sausage to add a bold, smoky flavor to your pretzel dogs. Replace the coarse salt topping with everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds for a unique crunchy texture and extra seasoning. Instead of boiling in a baking soda solution, try a malt syrup bath to deepen the pretzel's rich flavor and enhance browning. For a softer crust, brush the dough with melted butter immediately after baking to lock in moisture and add richness.
Allergies
Your Pretzel Dog from Auntie Anne's contains wheat, a common allergen found in all-purpose flour used for the pretzel dough, which can trigger reactions in those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. The all-beef hot dog may also pose an allergy risk for individuals sensitive to beef or certain preservatives used in processed meats. Be mindful of potential egg allergies due to the egg yolk used in the wash, which adds a glossy finish to the pretzel.
Why this recipe?
People enjoy the Pretzel Dog from Auntie Anne's for its perfect combination of soft, warm pretzel dough wrapped around a savory, juicy hot dog. The unique texture and rich flavor profile offer a satisfying snack that appeals to diverse taste preferences. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this delicious treat at home, saving money while customizing toppings and dipping sauces to your liking. Your kitchen can become the source of this iconic, crave-worthy comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or quick snacks.