Description
These Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites are soft, chewy, and perfectly golden with a classic pretzel crust. They’re an easy way to use leftover sourdough discard and make a delicious snack, appetizer, or party treat. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces for the ultimate homemade comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1 cup warm water (100–110°F)
- 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 8 cups water (for baking soda bath)
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons coarse pretzel salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing after baking)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, brown sugar, and instant yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until slightly foamy.
- Add the sourdough discard, melted butter, salt, and flour. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 60–90 minutes until doubled.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into 6 pieces. Roll each into an 18-inch rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Bring 8 cups of water to a gentle boil and carefully stir in the baking soda.
- Boil the pretzel bites in batches for 20–30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Brush each pretzel bite with beaten egg and sprinkle generously with coarse pretzel salt.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until deep golden brown.
- Brush with melted butter if desired and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- Measure the flour accurately for soft, tender pretzel bites.
- Do not skip the baking soda bath because it creates the signature chewy crust.
- Use coarse pretzel salt for authentic flavor and texture.
- Brush with melted butter after baking for an extra-soft finish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 6 pretzel bites
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Protein: 7g