🥨🌾Soft and Chewy Sourdough Pretzel Bites🌾🥨

Who doesn’t love a warm, soft pretzel fresh out of the oven? If you’ve got some sourdough discard lying around, why not put it to good use and whip up a batch of Soft and Chewy Sourdough Pretzel Bites? These bite-sized treats are ridiculously easy to make, with that signature chewy texture and deep, golden brown crust. Whether you’re snacking solo, hosting a party, or just looking for a fun baking project, this recipe is a winner!

Let’s dive into the recipe and get ready to enjoy some delicious homemade pretzel bites.

Equipment

To make the best pretzel bites, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients and kneading dough.
• Measuring cups & spoons – For accurate ingredient proportions.
• Dough scraper – Helps with kneading and cutting dough.
• Large pot – For boiling the pretzels with baking soda.
• Slotted spoon – Makes it easy to remove pretzels from boiling water.
• Baking sheet – Lined with parchment paper for even baking.
• Pastry brush – For applying egg wash or melted butter.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple pantry staples, and you’re halfway to pretzel bliss! If you need alternatives, here are some swaps you can make and the role of each ingredient in the recipe:

• 🌾 1 cup sourdough discard 🍞 (Adds tangy flavor and helps with texture. You can substitute with Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a similar effect.)
• 🥄 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure. You can replace half with whole wheat flour for a denser texture.)
• 🧂 1 tbsp sugar (Enhances flavor and helps with browning. Substitute with honey or maple syrup.)
• 🌿 1 tsp salt (Balances flavor. Use sea salt or kosher salt for a different taste.)
• 💧 ¾ cup warm water (Hydrates the dough. You can use milk for a slightly softer texture.)
• 🥚 1 egg (for egg wash) (Gives the pretzels a glossy finish. Use melted butter or milk for a vegan alternative.)
• 🧂 Coarse salt (for topping) (Adds crunch and flavor. Can be replaced with everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds.)
• 🌿 1 tsp baking soda (Used in boiling step to create a chewy crust. Essential for pretzel texture.)
• 🍯 2 tbsp melted butter (Adds richness and flavor. Can be swapped with olive oil or plant-based butter.)

Step-By-Step Guide (With Tips and Tricks)

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, sugar, salt, and warm water. Mix until a rough dough forms. Tip: If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour.

Knead It Out

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Tip: The dough should bounce back slightly when pressed with a finger. If it tears easily, knead a little longer. Cover and let it rest for 1 hour in a warm spot to develop flavor and texture.

Prep the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Tip: For even crispiness, use a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow air circulation.

Shape the Pretzels

Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into ropes. Cut into bite-sized pieces. Tip: If you prefer classic pretzel shapes, roll the ropes into longer strands and twist them into knots or traditional pretzels.

Boil for That Signature Pretzel Texture

Bring a pot of water to a boil and add baking soda. Drop the pretzel bites in batches and boil for 20-30 seconds. Tip: Don’t skip this step! Boiling the dough gives the pretzels their distinct chewy crust and deep golden color. Remove and place on the baking sheet.

Add the Finishing Touches

Brush each piece with an egg wash and sprinkle coarse salt on top. Tip: For a sweet variation, skip the salt and brush with butter, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after baking.

Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Tip: If you like extra crispy pretzels, leave them in for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Final Touch

Brush with melted butter while still warm. Let them cool slightly before serving—if you can wait that long! 😋 Tip: If you want a soft pretzel texture, cover them with a clean kitchen towel for 5 minutes after baking to trap steam and keep them extra tender.

How to Serve

These pretzel bites are perfect on their own, but here are a few dipping ideas to take them up a notch:

• 🧀 Warm cheese dip
• 🥜 Honey mustard
• 🍯 Cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist
• 🧄 Garlic butter

How to Store

To keep your sourdough pretzel bites fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Not recommended as it can make them stale.
• Freezing: Place in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a ziplock bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Reviving Stale Pretzels: Warm them in the oven for 5 minutes or microwave with a damp paper towel for 10-15 seconds to restore softness.

Making Soft and Chewy Sourdough Pretzel Bites at home is easier than you think! With a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy these irresistible bites fresh from your own kitchen. Perfect for snack time, game nights, or just because—these pretzel bites will be a hit every time!

So, what are you waiting for? Get baking and enjoy every delicious, chewy bite! 🥨✨

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