These Yeast-free Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites are fun and tasty! You make them using sourdough discard, which means less waste and more yum. They’re crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside!
Making these bites is quick, and they vanish fast! Perfect for sharing during movie night or enjoying as a snack. I can’t resist dipping them in mustard—what a combo! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Discard: This is the star ingredient! It not only adds a tangy flavor but also helps with the dough’s structure. If you don’t have sourdough discard, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a similar moisture content.
All-Purpose Flour: I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best results, but if you need a gluten-free option, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It’ll change the texture slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
Baking Soda & Baking Powder: These two are key for giving your pretzel bites their rise and chewiness. You can’t really substitute them, but just make sure they’re fresh for the best outcome.
Coarse Sea Salt: This is perfect for topping the pretzel bites for that classic pretzel flavor. If you don’t have it, kosher salt or even flaky sea salt works just fine. I sometimes mix in garlic powder for extra flavor!
How Do I Perfectly Shape and Boil Pretzel Bites?
Shaping and boiling your pretzel bites are crucial steps to achieve that distinct pretzel taste and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Shaping: After resting the dough, take a portion and roll it into a rope, aiming for ½ inch thick. Cut it into bite-sized pieces (about 1 inch). This will help them cook evenly.
- Boiling: Make sure your water is at a rolling boil when you drop the bites in; the baking soda bath gives them that chewy pretzel crust. Don’t crowd the pot; boil in small batches for about 20-30 seconds.
These steps ensure your pretzel bites turn out soft and chewy on the inside but crispy on the outside. Trust me, they’ll be a hit!
Yeast-free Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed, room temperature)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup warm water
- ½ tablespoon baking soda (for boiling water bath)
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing)
- Mustard or your favorite dipping sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. With a cooking time of around 15 minutes, you can have warm, delicious pretzel bites ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for those snack cravings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix in the warm water until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky but manageable. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour.
2. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic. Once done, cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 20-30 minutes; this helps the dough hydrate.
3. Shape the Pretzel Bites:
After resting, divide the dough into small portions. Roll each piece into a rope about ½ inch thick, then cut each rope into 1-inch pieces to create bite-sized pretzel pieces.
4. Prepare the Soda Bath:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring water to a boil, and add ½ tablespoon of baking soda to create an alkaline water bath. This step is crucial for that pretzel taste!
5. Boil the Pretzel Bites:
Carefully drop the dough pieces into the boiling water in batches. Boil them for about 20-30 seconds; this helps them get their lovely chewy texture. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain any excess water.
6. Bake:
Place the boiled pretzel bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the bites for extra flavor. If you want, brush them lightly with melted butter for a golden finish.
7. Bake Until Golden:
Put the pretzel bites in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The aroma will be irresistible!
8. Serve:
Let them cool for a few minutes, then serve warm with mustard or any dipping sauce of your choice. Enjoy your delicious yeast-free sourdough discard pretzel bites—crispy, golden, and perfect for snacking!
Can I Use Active Sourdough Starter Instead of Discard?
Yes, you can use an active sourdough starter, but note that it might make your dough a bit more elastic. Adjust the water slightly if the dough feels too wet since active starter can contain more moisture than discard.
How Can I Make These Pretzel Bites Vegan?
You can easily make these pretzel bites vegan by omitting the melted butter used for brushing. For a dairy-free dipping sauce, consider using mustard or a homemade vegan cheese dip!
Can I Freeze These Pretzel Bites?
Absolutely! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake straight from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Pretzel Bites?
Traditional mustard is a classic choice! You can also try cheese sauce, garlic butter sauce, or even a spicy dipping sauce for a little kick. Get creative and find your favorite combination!