Apple Cider Glazed Bacon Brat Dogs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to dive into the cooking process? Follow these simple steps to whip up your Apple Cider Glazed Bacon Brat Dogs:

1. Preheat your grill to a medium-high setting.
2. Wrap each bratwurst in two strips of bacon, securing them with toothpicks if needed.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to thicken for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Grill the bacon-wrapped sausages, turning occasionally until the bacon is crispy and the sausages are fully cooked (about 10-15 minutes).
5. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the apple cider glaze over the sausages, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
6. Toast the hot dog buns on the grill until golden.
7. Once done, let the sausages rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
8. Place each sausage in a toasted bun, adding your choice of toppings like sauerkraut, diced onions, or mustard.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Now that you’ve got these delicious brat dogs ready to go, consider pairing them with classic sides like potato salad, coleslaw, or chips. For a refreshing touch, serve with pickled vegetables or a cool cucumber salad. These toppings not only enhance flavor but also bring a colorful presentation to your plate.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can easily store them! Place any uneaten brat dogs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or grill briefly until warmed through. If you want to save them for longer, you can freeze the cooked sausages for up to 2 months—just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Pro Chef Tips

Here are some handy tips to elevate your brat dogs even more:

• For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the bratwurst in the apple cider blend for a few hours before wrapping them in bacon.
• If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey or chicken bratwursts can be used without losing the essence of the dish.
• Feel free to get creative with toppings—add a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick, or use different mustard varieties to complement the sweetness of the glaze.

Creative Twists

Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations on this classic recipe:

• Spicy Apple Cider Brat Dogs: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a bit of heat.
• Apple Cider BBQ Brat Dogs: Substitute the apple cider vinegar with your favorite BBQ sauce for a tangy twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based sausage and vegan bacon to create a delicious meat-free alternative.

FAQ

What is the cooking time for bratwurst on the grill?

Grilling bratwurst typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up before using it to glaze your bratwurst.

What can I use instead of apple cider?

If you don’t have apple cider, apple juice can work as a substitute—just keep an eye on the sweetness of the final glaze.

Now, gather your ingredients and fire up the grill! Enjoy the delicious experience of Apple Cider Glazed Bacon Brat Dogs with friends and family.