These Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites are soft, chewy, and fun to make! Perfect for snacking, they use leftover sourdough starter, turning waste into a tasty treat.
Making these bites is a blast! My kids love to help twist them into shape. And let’s be real, they disappear quickly in our house—no one can resist a warm, salty pretzel!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Discard: This is the star ingredient! It adds unique flavor and texture. If you don’t have sourdough discard, you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as an alternative to keep that tangy taste, though it will slightly change the texture.
All-Purpose Flour: I like using all-purpose flour for its versatility. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, you can try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it has xanthan gum, which helps with the dough’s structure!
Baking Soda: Both for the dough and the boiling solution, baking soda enhances the browning and flavor. If you run out, you might use baking powder, but it won’t have the same effect when boiling.
Coarse Sea Salt: This adds that delicious crunch! If you don’t have coarse sea salt, regular salt can be used, but it is best to use less since it’s finer and saltier.
How Do I Get the Dough Just Right for Pretzel Bites?
The dough’s texture is key for making soft pretzel bites. After mixing your ingredients, if the dough is too sticky to handle, sprinkle in a bit more flour gradually while kneading until you reach a smooth consistency. Remember to knead gently; over-kneading can make the pretzels tough!
- Combine all your dry ingredients first before adding the sourdough discard.
- Knead just until smooth, about 2-3 minutes—don’t worry if it’s not perfect!
- Use a light dusting of flour on your work surface to prevent sticking.
How to Make Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups sourdough discard
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
For the Boiling Solution:
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 4 cups water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake. The whole process will have you enjoying your delicious pretzel bites in just about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will help keep the pretzel bites from sticking!
2. Mix the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir them together until a dough starts to form. It should come together nicely!
3. Knead the Dough:
Sprinkle a little flour on a clean surface. Place the dough on this surface and knead it gently for about 2-3 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If your dough feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to add a bit more flour to help with that!
4. Shape the Pretzel Bites:
Now, divide your dough into small pieces, roughly the size of a tablespoon. Roll each piece into a ball. This will be the fun part—you can make them all nice and round!
5. Prepare the Boiling Solution:
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water and 1/4 cup of baking soda to a gentle boil. This step is key for that classic pretzel flavor and texture!
6. Boil the Pretzel Bites:
Carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water in small batches. Let them cook for about 30 seconds, until they puff up a bit. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pot and place them on your prepared baking sheet.
7. Egg Wash and Salt:
Brush each pretzel bite generously with the beaten egg. Then, sprinkle them with coarse sea salt. This will add flavor and a beautiful finish!
8. Bake the Pretzel Bites:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the pretzel bites bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re out of the oven, allow the pretzel bites to cool slightly. Enjoy them warm with your favorite mustard or cheese dip. They are perfect for snacking!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for this recipe! Make sure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum or guar gum, which helps maintain the dough’s structure. You may need to adjust the amount of flour slightly based on the blend you choose, so add it gradually until the dough comes together.
How Should I Store Leftover Pretzel Bites?
Store any leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, until warm and crispy again!
What Can I Use Instead of Egg for the Egg Wash?
If you prefer to skip the egg wash, you can brush the pretzel bites with a mixture of plant-based milk (like almond or soy) and a teaspoon of maple syrup for a nice glaze. This will give them a lovely golden color and a slightly sweet flavor while maintaining a nice finish.
Can I Prepare the Dough in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time! After kneading, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to use it, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before continuing with the boiling and baking steps.
