Why Make This Recipe
Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites are a fun and delicious way to use leftover sourdough starter. Instead of throwing it away, you can turn it into tasty snacks that everyone will love. These pretzel bites are soft, chewy, and have a lovely flavor from the sourdough. Plus, they are easy to make and perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces.
How to Make Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 cup water
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, salt, sugar, melted butter, and baking soda. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth.
- Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a bite-sized ball.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a tablespoon of baking soda.
- Boil each pretzel bite for about 30 seconds, then remove and place on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with your favorite dip.
How to Serve Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites
Serve the pretzel bites warm with a variety of dips. Mustard, cheese sauce, or even a spicy dipping sauce works great. They make a perfect snack for movie nights or parties!
How to Store Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites
Keep the pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place them in a zip-lock bag and store them in the freezer. They can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Tips to Make Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites
- Make sure your sourdough discard is fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the baking soda boil! It helps create that classic pretzel texture.
- Experiment with toppings: try sesame seeds, garlic powder, or everything bagel seasoning for added flavor.
Variation
You can add cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist. Simply mix in about 1/2 cup of shredded cheese along with the other ingredients for delicious cheesy pretzel bites.
FAQs
1. Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes, you can use active sourdough starter. Just reduce the amount of water slightly, as active starter tends to be wetter.
2. Can I make these pretzel bites gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture may vary.
3. How do I know when the pretzel bites are done?
They should be golden brown on the outside. You can also tap the bottom of a pretzel bite; if it sounds hollow, it’s ready!
Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites
Ingredients
Dough ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough discard Fresh sourdough discard for best flavor
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda For boiling the pretzel bites
- 1/4 cup water Adjust if using active sourdough starter
- Flaky sea salt For sprinkling on pretzel bites
Method
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, salt, sugar, melted butter, and baking soda. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth.
- Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a bite-sized ball.
Cooking
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a tablespoon of baking soda.
- Boil each pretzel bite for about 30 seconds, then remove and place on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with your favorite dip.