Sourdough Pretzel Bites
If you're looking for the ultimate snack to share, these sourdough pretzel bites are about to become your new favorite. Perfectly chewy with that classic golden-brown pretzel crust and a hint of tang from sourdough starter. Dip them in cheese sauce, mustard, or enjoy them by themselves, and you've got a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 ¼ cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil)
For boiling & topping:
- 9 cups water
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 egg yolk (beaten with 1 teaspoon water, for egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt (or kosher salt)
How to Make Sourdough Pretzel Bites
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a stand mixer, combine sourdough starter, warm water, brown sugar, flour, and salt.
- Using the dough hook attachment, knead the dough for 1 - 2 minutes. Slowly add the melted butter, then knead for another 5 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rest at room temperature until it has doubled in size (about 3-4 hours, depending on your starter's activity).
Step 2: Shape the Pretzel Bites
- Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a rope about ¾-1 inch thick.
- Cut the pieces into bite-sized chunks (approximately 1 inch long) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Boil the Dough
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bring 9 cups of water to a boil and stir in baking soda.
- Drop pretzel bites in (about 8-10 at a time) and boil for 30 seconds.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Pretzel Bites
- Brush each bite with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
What You Will Need
How to Serve Sourdough Pretzel Bites
- Classic: With mustard or cheese dip.
- Sweet: Toss warm pretzel bites in melted butter and coat with cinnamon sugar.
- Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking.
What to Serve with Sourdough Pretzel Bites
- Red Pepper Hummus: Serve with a side of veggies for a perfect snack platter
- Game Day Dip: Try one of these dips.
Tips for Success
- Don't skip the baking soda bath - it's what gives pretzels their signature chewy crust.
- If you want to prep ahead, shape the bites and refrigerate overnight, then boil and bake the next day.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Sourdough Pretzel Bites
If you're looking for the ultimate snack to share, these sourdough pretzel bites are about to become your new favorite. Perfectly chewy with that classic golden-brown pretzel crust and a hint of tang from sourdough starter. Dip them in cheese sauce, mustard, or enjoy them by themselves, and you've got a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup active sourdough starter fed and bubbly
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 ¼ cup all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter or olive oil
For Boiling and Topping
- 9 cups water
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 egg yolk beaten with 1 teaspoon water, for egg wash
- Coarse sea salt or kosher salt
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a stand mixer, combine sourdough starter, warm water, brown sugar, flour, and salt.
- Using the dough hook attachment, knead the dough for 1 - 2 minutes. Slowly add the melted butter, then knead for another 5 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rest at room temperature until it has doubled in size (about 3-4 hours, depending on your starter's activity).
Step 2: Shape the Pretzel Bites
- Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a rope about ¾-1 inch thick.
- Cut the pieces into bite-sized chunks (approximately 1 inch long) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Boil the Dough
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bring 9 cups of water to a boil and stir in baking soda.
- Drop pretzel bites in (about 8-10 at a time) and boil for 30 seconds.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Pretzel Bites
- Brush each bite with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
