Cocktail Franks
Cocktail Franks are a delightful appetizer featuring bite-sized hot dogs simmered in a sweet and tangy grape jelly and mustard sauce. Their savory-sweet flavor combo makes them perfect for parties, casual gatherings, or game days, offering an easy, crowd-pleasing snack with minimal preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the wieners into bite-sized pieces.
- In a saucepan, heat the grape jelly and mustard until the jelly melts, stirring to combine.
- Add the cut wieners into the sauce.
- Cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Keep the mixture hot and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the grape jelly and mustard mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using turkey or chicken wieners instead of traditional pork wieners. These Cocktail Franks can also be made in a slow cooker for an easy party appetizer. This dish is perfect for Quick Barbecues or family gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Cocktail Franks warm alongside toothpicks for easy eating. They pair wonderfully with chips or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving them with Seasoned Potatoes or a light vegetable side like a Red, White And Green Vegetable Melange. These appetizers are great for parties or game days.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cocktail Franks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Avoid overheating, as this can dry out the wieners and sauce.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocktail Franks contains roughly 37 calories, with 2g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cocktail Franks in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and wieners ahead of time. Simply cook them as directed, then let them cool before storing in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving. This makes them a convenient option for busy days or gatherings.
What type of mustard works best for this recipe?
While yellow mustard is commonly used, you can experiment with Dijon or spicy brown mustard for added complexity. The choice of mustard will affect the overall flavor, so choose one that complements the sweetness of the grape jelly.
Can I use a different type of jelly?
Absolutely! While grape jelly is traditional, you can substitute with other fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot for a unique flavor. Just ensure the jelly is sweet enough to balance the mustard's tanginess.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).