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Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites

Freshly prepared sourdough discard pretzel bites on a clean counter

These Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites are a deliciously chewy snack made from sourdough discard dough, perfect for satisfying your pretzel cravings with minimal waste.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp instant yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm water
  • 2 tbsp baking soda
  • 10 cups water (for boiling)
  • Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the sourdough discard, warm water, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix gently until combined.
  2. Add the flour gradually and knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a log about 1-inch thick.
  6. Cut the log into 1-inch pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
  7. In a large pot, bring the 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.
  8. Boil the pretzel bites in batches for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet.
  9. Sprinkle the pretzel bites with coarse sea salt and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
  10. Optionally, brush with melted butter right after baking for extra flavor.
  11. Let cool slightly before serving warm.

Notes

For a fun twist, serve with mustard or cheese sauce for dipping; these bites also freeze well for quick snacks later.