If you’re looking for a spicy, smoky, and bite-sized twist on the classic backyard frank, these Rattlesnake Hot Dog Bites are about to strike. This fun and fiery take on traditional hot dogs is inspired by @thebkydpalate, bringing together the sweet heat of BBQ sauce, the zing of mustard, and the satisfying crunch of a good crosshatch sear.
The “rattlesnake” part? That comes from the spiral-sliced hot dogs that crisp up beautifully, so they look like the tail of something you don’t want to step on but definitely want to eat.
These little hot dog bites are the perfect game day appetizer, tailgate snack, or quick crowd-pleaser at your next backyard BBQ. Spicy, smoky, saucy, and easy to eat with a toothpick in one hand and a cold drink in the other so this one’s a no-brainer.
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Why You’ll Love Rattlesnake Hot Dog Bites
First off, who doesn’t love corn dog bites, crescent-wrapped franks, or spiral hams sliced just right? These bite size pieces hit that same nostalgic comfort food note but crank up the flavor dial. Think of them as corn dogs’ rowdy cousin but less fairground, more fire pit.
Inspired by burnt ends and smoky barbecue traditions, these hot dog bites bring in the perfect balance of sweet BBQ sauce, a tangy mustard base, and just enough heat to make you reach for seconds (and probably thirds). The crosshatch slicing technique gives them that awesome rattlesnake-tail look while letting the rub and sauce soak deep into every inch.
Also, if you’re cooking for a crew of older kids or need a great option that’s not fussy but still delivers flavor by the forkful (or toothpickful), these hot dogs will absolutely deliver. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile because make them spicier or sweeter depending on your preference. Want to take it even further? Wrap them in crescent roll dough or nest them inside some puff pastry for extra indulgence.
Rattlesnake Hot Dog Bites Ingredients
The Dogs & Seasoning:
- Full-sized Hot Dogs – The core of the recipe, spiral-sliced for max flavor and presentation.
- Yellow Mustard – Works as a binder and brings tangy, punchy flavor.
- Cowboy Candy Rub – Adds heat, sweetness, and a bold BBQ kick.
The Sauce:
- Butter – Adds richness and helps bind everything together.
- Favorite BBQ Sauce – Choose something smoky, sweet, or spicy; it’s really dealer’s choice.
- Buffalo Sauce – For that wing-night heat and vinegary zip.
Optional Add-ons:
- Serve with toothpicks for easy eating.
- Add cream cheese, cornbread batter, or even wrap in crescent dough for elevated versions.
- A drizzle of hot dog sauce or extra brown sugar glaze can level it up for the sweet tooths out there.
How to Make Hot Dog Bites
Smoking Hot Dogs
Grab your full-size hot dogs and slice them in a crosshatch pattern on the outside. This isn’t just for show because the scoring opens up surface area to soak in all the mustard and rub, giving you bite after bite of bold flavor. Slather each hot dog in yellow mustard, then coat them with your Cowboy Candy Rub until they’re well-seasoned and ready to go.
Place the seasoned hot dogs on a prepared baking sheet or a wire rack. Set your smoker to medium-low heat (250F) and then toss on some wood chips or wood chunks for that deep BBQ flavor. Smoke the dogs for about 1 hour and then you’ll see the color start to darken and the cuts crisp up, creating that signature rattlesnake look.
Want a similar smoky appetizer? Check out these Smoked Pig Shots for another bite-sized BBQ winner.
Make the Sauce
While the hot dogs bites are smoking, grab a small pot and melt your butter over medium heat. Add your BBQ sauce and buffalo sauce, stirring until everything is blended and bubbling. This sweet and spicy glaze is what takes these bites from backyard to legendary.
Slice, Sauce, and Finish
Once the hot dogs bites are darkened and smoked through, pull them off and slice them into 1 to 1.5 inch pieces. Toss them into a foil pan and pour your BBQ-buffalo glaze over the top, coating each bite in liquid gold. Throw the pan back on the smoker, uncovered, for another 20–30 minutes so that sauce caramelizes and clings to every edge.
Serve ‘Em Up
Once the bites are glossy and sticky, pull them off the heat and let cool for about 10 minutes. Skewer each piece with a toothpick and then line them up on a platter. They’re ready to go—no forks, no plates, just pure bite-sized BBQ bliss.
Whether you’re throwing a party, tailgating, or just want to crank out something crowd-pleasing with minimal effort, these Rattlesnake Hot Dog Bites are locked, loaded, and ready to impress. They’re sweet, spicy, smoky, and totally snackable. So grab some hot dogs, fire up the smoker, and let the good times bite.
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Want more awesome hot dog recipes? Don’t miss Hot Dog Burnt Ends—another flavorful, fiery favorite that hits the spot every time.
What to Serve with Rattlesnake Hot Dog Bites
These bites are a full-flavored appetizer, but they pair great with creamy mac n cheese, grilled corn, or even some homemade ranch for dipping. Want to keep the handheld theme going? Whip up a tray of Cowboy Butter Sliders or Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Onion Rings. The combo will have your crew grinning between bites.
Looking to impress guests at your next game day gathering? Add these bites to a full BBQ board with Beer Brats and Cowboy Candy Stuffed Onion Rings.
Leftovers & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftover hot dog bites (which honestly, good luck), toss them in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Want to revive that saucy magic? Drizzle on a little extra BBQ sauce before reheating. You can also use an air fryer for a crispier bite—5–7 minutes at 375F should do the trick.
More Bites
Hot Dog Bites FAQs
Yes! You can smoke the hot dogs and make the sauce the day before. When you’re ready to serve, slice, sauce, and finish them on the smoker or in the oven for that final glaze.
Absolutely. Skip the buffalo sauce and go with a sweeter BBQ blend, you could also even add a dash of brown sugar to the sauce for a caramelized finish. It’s great for older kids or anyone not into spice.
Heck yes. For a corn dog bite vibe, wrap them in crescent roll dough or roll out some puff pastry, then bake at 375F until golden brown. Instant upgrade with that flaky texture.
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Hot Dog Bites
Ingredients
Hot Dogs:
- 10-12 Full Sized Hot Dogs
- ¼ cup Cowboy Candy Rub
- 3 tbsp Yellow Mustard
BBQ Sauce:
- ½ stick Butter cubed
- ½ cup HNY FYR or your favorite BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup Buffalo Sauce
Instructions
- Start by scoring the outside of your hot dogs in a crosshatch pattern. Slathering your hot dogs with yellow mustard then thoroughly season with my Cowboy Candy Rub. Place your hot dogs on a baking wire rack evenly spaced out and set aside.
- Preheat your smoker for medium-low heat (250F). Top with wood chips or wood chunks for added smoke flavor.
- Add your hot dogs onto the smoker and cook for 1 hour. Then in a pot over medium heat, add everything for you bbq sauce to a boil and then pull off to cool.
- After the hot dogs are beginning to darken in color, pull off, sliced into 1.5 inch segments and place in an aluminum foil. Cover in the bbq sauce and place back on the smoker uncovered to cook for 20-30 minutes.
- When done, pull out and let cool for 10 minutes. Serve each with a toothpick. Enjoy!
