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Savory Mini Hot Dog Sliders with Soft Pretzel Buns

mini hot dog sliders - featured image

These savory mini hot dog sliders feature homemade soft pretzel buns paired with juicy mini hot dogs and classic toppings, perfect for quick snacks or party appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (360g)
  • 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (one packet)
  • 1 cup warm water (110ยฐF / 43ยฐC)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup baking soda (60g)
  • 2 tsp coarse sea salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • About 20 mini hot dogs or cocktail sausages (14 oz / 400g)
  • 2 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 2 tbsp ketchup (optional)
  • 1/4 cup diced onions
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a medium bowl, combine warm water (110ยฐF/43ยฐC), sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, add the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture. Mix with a dough hook or wooden spoon until combined.
  3. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a mixer until smooth and elastic.
  4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the buns: Punch down the dough and divide into 20 equal pieces (about 1.25 oz / 35g each). Roll each into a smooth ball and shape into small buns.
  6. Second rise: Place buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
  7. Preheat oven to 425ยฐF (220ยฐC). In a large pot, bring 8 cups (2 liters) of water and baking soda to a boil.
  8. Boil buns: Drop buns into boiling water 2-3 at a time for 30 seconds each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on baking sheet.
  9. Sprinkle buns with coarse salt and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Remove buns from oven and immediately brush with melted butter. Let cool on a rack.
  11. Assemble sliders: Slice buns horizontally, place a mini hot dog inside each, add mustard, ketchup, diced onions, and cheddar cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not skip the boiling step to achieve the signature chewy pretzel crust. Use warm water to activate yeast properly. Watch baking time closely to avoid burning. Assemble sliders just before serving to keep buns from getting soggy. For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini hot dog sliders, pretzel buns, party appetizers, easy snacks, homemade pretzel buns, savory sliders