Pretzel Pigs N Blanket

If you grew up loving the classic pigs in a blanket, get ready to meet its elevated, irresistible cousin: Pretzel Pigs N Blanket. Imagine soft, chewy pretzel dough wrapped around juicy beef links, baked to golden perfection, and paired with a sweet-spicy honey mustard dipping sauce. Each bite combines the nostalgia of childhood favorites with the satisfaction of freshly baked pretzel bread. Add a refreshing Vita Ice Strawberry Watermelon drink on the side, and you’ve got a snack or appetizer that’s guaranteed to impress.

From birthday parties to casual weeknight dinners, these pretzel pigs in a blanket are fun, interactive, and ridiculously tasty. Plus, making pretzel dough at home is easier than you think. Once you get the hang of it, this is one snack you’ll want to make over and over.

Recipe Origin

Pretzels have a rich history dating back centuries in Europe, beloved for their chewy texture and salty crust. Pigs in a blanket, on the other hand, are a classic American comfort food. Combining the two takes the best of both worlds—soft, golden pretzels hugging savory beef links, creating a snack that’s both playful and sophisticated.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Mixing Bowl

For proofing yeast and kneading dough.

Whisk or Spoon

To mix yeast, sugar, and water.

Baking Sheet

For placing the pretzel-wrapped beef links.

Large Pot

For boiling water with baking soda.

Slotted Spoon

To safely remove pretzels from boiling water.

Small Bowl

For mixing the honey mustard dipping sauce.

Knife or Pizza Cutter

For slicing dough if needed.

Why You’ll Love Pretzel Pigs N Blanket

This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s versatile, fun, and perfect for any occasion.

Versatile

Serve as an appetizer, snack, or even as a fun weeknight dinner. Pair with drinks or sides for parties.

Budget-Friendly

Made with simple pantry ingredients like flour, yeast, and beef links.

Quick and Easy

While homemade dough might seem intimidating, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for beginners.

Customizable

Swap beef links for chicken sausages, add cheese inside, or try different dipping sauces.

Crowd-Pleasing

Kids and adults alike will love these pretzel pigs, especially when dipped in honey mustard.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Warm water: Ensures the yeast activates properly.
• Knead well: Develops the gluten for soft, chewy pretzel dough.
• Boil with baking soda: Gives pretzels that signature crust and color.
• Don’t overcrowd pot: Boil a few at a time for even results.
• Serve immediately: Pretzels are best enjoyed fresh from the oven.

Ingredients in Pretzel Pigs N Blanket

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Pretzel Dough

Warm water, instant yeast, brown sugar, fine sea salt, melted butter, all-purpose flour.

Beef Links

Pre-cooked, juicy, and ready to be wrapped in dough.

Boiling Water & Baking Soda

For boiling pretzels before baking, creating that classic pretzel crust.

Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and sriracha.

Vita Ice Strawberry Watermelon

Optional, but refreshing for serving alongside the pretzels.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Let it sit until frothy, about 5–10 minutes. Stir in salt, melted butter, and gradually add flour to form a soft dough.

Knead the Dough

Transfer to a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5–7 minutes.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Shape the Pretzel Pigs

Divide dough into portions, roll each into a rope, and wrap around the pre-cooked beef links. Press ends to seal.

Boil in Baking Soda Water

In a large pot, bring 8–10 cups of water to a boil. Stir in baking soda. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Prepare Dipping Sauce

While pretzels bake, whisk together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and sriracha.

Serve

Serve hot with honey mustard dipping sauce and Vita Ice Strawberry Watermelon on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6–8
Calories per serving: Approx. 350–400
Preparation Time Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes including dough rise

How to Serve Pretzel Pigs N Blanket

Fresh Salads

Serve with a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Pickles or Veggies

Crunchy pickles or carrot sticks make a fun accompaniment.

Dipping Sauces

Try additional dips like cheese sauce or mustard.

As a Standalone

Perfect for snacking, party platters, or casual meals.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Dough can be made a few hours before baking.
• Storage: Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to refresh.
• Freezing: Dough can be frozen before boiling; thaw overnight and proceed with boiling and baking.

Variations to Try

• Cheese-filled: Add a strip of cheese inside the dough around the beef link.
• Spicy: Brush with hot sauce or add spices to dough.
• Mini versions: Perfect for appetizers at parties.
• Different Sausages: Swap beef links for chicken, turkey, or vegetarian sausages.

Additional Tips

• Do not skip boiling: Gives pretzels their signature chewy crust.
• Even wrapping: Ensures uniform baking.
• Dipping fun: Let everyone dip into honey mustard or other sauces.
• Browning: Brush with melted butter after baking for extra shine.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen dough?

A1: Yes, just thaw completely and proceed with wrapping and boiling.

Q2: Can I make them smaller?

A2: Absolutely! Mini pretzel pigs are great for appetizers.

Q3: Can I use raw sausages?

A3: Pre-cooked is recommended, but raw sausages can be used if cooked fully after baking.

Q4: Can I make the honey mustard sauce ahead?

A4: Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Q5: Can I skip the honey in the sauce?

A5: Yes, but it will change the sweetness and balance; you can add more mustard or lemon juice.

Q6: Can I freeze pretzels after baking?

A6: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month; reheat in oven.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?

A7: Airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Q8: Can I use all-purpose flour for the dough?

A8: Yes, it works perfectly for a soft pretzel texture.

Q9: Can I make them sweet?

A9: Yes, brush with cinnamon sugar after baking for a dessert version.

Q10: Can I use different dipping sauces?

A10: Absolutely! Cheese sauce, mustard, or even a spicy aioli are all delicious.

Conclusion

Pretzel Pigs N Blanket is a fun, comforting, and flavorful snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Chewy pretzel dough wrapped around savory beef links, baked golden, and paired with a sweet-spicy honey mustard dipping sauce—it’s a combination that’s as playful as it is delicious. Whether served at parties, for a family dinner, or just a treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite you’ll make again and again.

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