Freshly baked sourdough pretzel bites on a wooden board.

Why Make This Recipe

Sourdough Pretzel Bites are not just a delightful snack; they are also a fantastic way to use sourdough discard. These little bites are chewy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with flavor. They make a perfect appetizer for parties or a fun family treat. Plus, making them at home means you can enjoy them warm and fresh out of the oven.

How to Make Sourdough Pretzel Bites

Ingredients:

2 cups sourdough discard
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup warm water
1 egg (for egg wash)
Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a bowl, combine the sourdough discard, warm water, sugar, and salt.
Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth.
Divide the dough into small pieces and shape them into bite-sized pretzels.
Boil a large pot of water and add the baking soda.
Drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove and place on a baking sheet.
Brush each pretzel with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Sourdough Pretzel Bites

Sourdough Pretzel Bites are best enjoyed warm. You can serve them plain or with delicious dips such as mustard, cheese sauce, or creamy ranch. They also make a great movie night snack or a fun addition to a game-day spread.

How to Store Sourdough Pretzel Bites

To keep your Sourdough Pretzel Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place the cooled pretzel bites in a freezer bag, and they will stay good for about a month. Just reheat them in the oven before serving.

Tips to Make Sourdough Pretzel Bites

Make sure your sourdough discard is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Don’t skip the boiling step with baking soda. It helps create that signature pretzel taste and texture.
Experiment with toppings! Try adding garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, or even spicy seasonings for a different twist.

Variation

You can add different flavors to your sourdough pretzel bites by incorporating ingredients like herbs or cheese into the dough. For a sweet version, sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on top instead of coarse sea salt before baking.

FAQs

Can I use fresh sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes, you can use fresh sourdough starter if you don’t have discard. Just keep the overall measurements the same.

What can I dip Sourdough Pretzel Bites in?
Popular dips include mustard, cheese sauce, and even marinara sauce. Get creative with your favorite sauces!

Can I make these pretzel bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the pretzel bites, then refrigerate them before cooking. Just remember to boil them and bake them when you’re ready to serve!