Kitchen Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty bites:
- Baking Sheet – For cooking the hot dog burnt ends.
- Cutting Board and Knife – To slice the hot dogs.
- Mixing Bowls – For preparing the sauce and seasoning.
- Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper – To line the baking sheet and make cleanup easier.
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Hot Dogs: Cut the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch in length. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Mix the Sauce and Seasonings: In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, honey, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Coat the Hot Dogs: Pour the sauce mixture over the hot dog pieces, tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the hot dog pieces are caramelized and slightly crispy on the edges. Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even caramelization.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These Hot Dog Burnt Ends are perfect on their own or served with extra barbecue sauce for dipping.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Quality Hot Dogs: For the best flavor, use high-quality hot dogs with your preferred taste and texture. Some hot dogs have a more robust flavor, which can enhance the overall dish.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or other spices to suit your taste preferences. For a milder version, omit the cayenne pepper.
- Caramelization: Watch the hot dogs closely during the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning. The goal is to achieve a caramelized, slightly crispy exterior.
How to Store Hot Dog Burnt Ends
Store leftover Hot Dog Burnt Ends in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze the burnt ends. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations on the Recipe
- Spicy Hot Dog Burnt Ends: Add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce mixture for extra heat.
- Sweet and Savory: Experiment with different barbecue sauce flavors, such as honey mustard or teriyaki, for a unique twist.
- Bacon-Wrapped: For an even richer treat, wrap each hot dog piece in a small strip of bacon before baking. Secure with toothpicks and bake until the bacon is crispy.
