Hot dog pastry

01 / ABOUT THE DISH

About the dish

West Virginia hot dog pastry takes its title from its hot dog–like shape—an oblong, split pastry that resembles a bun, filled or topped with sweet frosting. Found primarily in southern West Virginia, especially in old-school bakeries and mom-and-pop diners, the hot dog pastry is a cherished comfort food and a local favorite. The base is typically a soft, yeast-raised dough, lightly sweetened and baked until golden. Once cooled, it's either sliced or hollowed down the middle, then generously filled with whipped frosting, marshmallow creme, or vanilla icing. Some versions are topped with thick, piped swirls of pink or white frosting, while others are fully glazed. The texture is airy and tender—somewhere between a dinner roll and a doughnut—while the flavor is sweet, creamy, and nostalgic. Often enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled, this humble treat is rarely found outside West Virginia. Yet, within the state, it's a staple at bake sales, church events, and roadside bakeries, passed down through generations as a symbol of community and comfort.