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sourdough snack recipes

Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites

Soft and chewy pretzel bites made from sourdough discard, baked until golden and perfect for snacking.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 Pieces
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baking
Calories: 90
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the dough
  • 1 cup sourdough discard active or unfed; room temperature is fine
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour or 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda for the dough; see tips about adding some to the boiling water
  • 1 teaspoon salt plus flaky sea salt for topping
  • 1 tablespoon sugar helps color and flavor
  • 1/2 cup warm water about 100–110°F / 38–43°C reduce by a tablespoon or two if discard is watery
Optional
  • to taste melted butter for brushing after baking

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine:
  2. Sourdough discard
  3. Warm water
  4. Sugar
  5. Whisk or stir until the mixture becomes smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Form the Dough
  1. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the bowl.
  2. Mix with a spoon until a soft dough starts to form.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
  1. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
  2. Knead for about 3–4 minutes until it becomes smooth and slightly elastic.
  3. Avoid over-kneading to keep the texture soft.
Step 5: Shape the Pretzel Bites
  1. Pinch off small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls.
  2. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece.
Step 6: Boil for Classic Pretzel Texture
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil.
  2. Carefully add a few dough balls at a time and boil for about 30 seconds.
  3. Remove them using a slotted spoon and place them back onto the baking sheet.
Step 7: Add Topping
  1. Sprinkle flaky sea salt evenly over the tops of the pretzel bites.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
  1. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the pretzel bites turn golden brown and slightly puffed.
Step 9: Finish & Serve
  1. Optional: Brush with melted butter immediately after baking for extra flavor and shine.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy the soft, chewy texture with your favorite dips.

Notes

  • Boiling step improves texture and crust
  • Store in airtight container for freshness
  • Reheat in oven for best results