What Makes Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites So Special
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked soft pretzel bites that fills the kitchen. That warm, toasty scent, the satisfyingly chewy interior, and the irresistible salty crunch on the outside. It’s a taste that transports me straight to a cozy autumn afternoon.
Using sourdough discard in this easy pretzel bites recipe is my little secret. It adds a subtle, complex tang that makes these homemade pretzel bites utterly unforgettable. And don’t you worry if your discard is cold from the fridge—we’ll tackle that question and more, just like we’re chatting over a cup of tea.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup sourdough discard, unfed
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Coarse sea salt for topping
Estimated Prep & Cook Time for Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites
This wonderful recipe for homemade pretzel bites comes together in just over an hour. You can expect about 20 minutes of active prep time and 30 minutes of resting time for the dough.
The baking soda bath and final bake take about 20 minutes. In total, you’ll be enjoying your warm, golden Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites in just about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your sourdough discard, granulated sugar, and warm water. Give it a good stir until the sugar begins to dissolve into the mixture.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Mix in the all-purpose flour and salt. Stir until a shaggy, slightly sticky dough forms. This is the start of your delicious sourdough pretzel bites!
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it by hand for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and a joy to work with.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rest
Place your lovely smooth dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rest for 30 minutes. This short rest makes the dough easier to shape.
Step 5: Prep for Baking
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent your soft pretzel bites from sticking.
Step 6: The Baking Soda Bath
In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the baking soda—it will fizz up! This bath is the secret to that classic pretzel flavor and color.
Step 7: Shape and Boil
Divide your dough into small, bite-sized pieces. Gently boil them in the baking soda water for about 30 seconds each, then use a slotted spoon to transfer them to your prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Brush each piece generously with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and bake for 15-18 minutes, until they are a deep, gorgeous golden brown.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
After making these Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites more times than I can count, here are my favorite little secrets for success.
- Flavor Swap: For a fun twist, toss the warm baked bites in melted butter and a mix of cinnamon and sugar instead of salt.
- Diet Tweak: You can use whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a heartier, fiber-rich bite.
- Prep Fix: If your dough is too sticky when shaping, just dust your hands with a bit more flour—it’s that simple!
- Storage Tip: Keep your homemade pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature—they’re best enjoyed within 2 days.
Healthier Alternatives for Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites
I often get asked, “Can I make these Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites a bit healthier?” Absolutely! This soft pretzel recipe is wonderfully adaptable.
For a lighter version, you can use a whole wheat and all-purpose flour blend. You can also skip the egg wash for a vegan option—just use a bit of melted plant-based butter or olive oil to help the salt stick.
How to Serve Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites
These warm, salty bites are the ultimate shareable snack. I love serving a big bowl of them when my book club comes over, paired with a variety of dips.
A classic spicy mustard is a must, but a warm cheese dip or even a simple honey butter sends these easy pretzel bites straight to comfort food heaven. They pair perfectly with a cold glass of iced tea or a warm mug of soup on a chilly day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites last after baking?
For the best taste and texture, enjoy your homemade pretzel bites within 2 days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them from going stale. They can also be frozen for longer storage!
What is the best way to shape Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites?
After the dough rests, simply roll it into a long rope about an inch thick. Then, use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut it into even, one-inch pieces. No need to be perfect—rustic is charming!
Can I use sourdough discard straight from the fridge?
Yes, you absolutely can! Cold sourdough discard works perfectly fine in this recipe. There’s no need to bring it to room temperature first, which makes this an incredibly easy pretzel bites recipe to whip up on a whim.
What can I use instead of baking soda for pretzel bites?
The baking soda bath is traditional for achieving the classic flavor and color. While there’s no perfect substitute, you can use food-grade lye for a more authentic result. However, baking soda is the safest and most accessible option for home bakers.
Why are my sourdough pretzel bites not chewy?
If your bites aren’t chewy, the dough may have needed more kneading to develop gluten. Also, ensure you don’t over-bake them. Taking them out of the oven as soon as they’re golden brown is key to a soft, chewy interior.
How do you get the classic dark brown pretzel color?
The secret is the baking soda bath! Boiling the dough pieces for just 30 seconds before baking helps create that beautiful, dark brown, glossy crust. The egg wash brushed on top also contributes to that perfect color.
What dips go well with sourdough pretzel bites?
Oh, the possibilities! My favorites are a sharp beer cheese sauce, a tangy honey mustard, or a simple marinara for dipping. For a sweet option, try a cream cheese frosting or caramel sauce—it’s divine.
How do you freeze Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites?
These freeze beautifully! Let the baked bites cool completely, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for that just-baked taste.
