Easy Sourdough Pretzel Bites 🥨✨
Soft, chewy, and perfectly salty—these sourdough pretzel bites are a fun twist on classic pretzels, with a hint of tanginess from your starter! Great for snacks, parties, or game day.
Ingredients (Makes ~30 bites)
For the Dough:
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1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
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1 cup (240ml) warm water (~110°F/43°C)
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2 tbsp (30g) brown sugar (or honey)
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2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour (+ extra as needed)
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1 tsp salt
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2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Baking Soda Bath:
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6 cups (1.5L) water
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¼ cup (60g) baking soda
Topping:
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Coarse sea salt
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Melted butter (for brushing)
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Cheese sauce or mustard (for dipping)
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
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In a bowl, mix sourdough starter, warm water, sugar, and melted butter.
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Add flour + salt, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
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Knead by hand (or mixer) for 5-7 mins until smooth and slightly tacky.
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Cover and let rise at room temp for 4-6 hrs (or overnight in the fridge for extra tang).
2. Shape the Pretzel Bites
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Divide dough into 4 pieces. Roll each into a rope (~1″ thick).
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Cut into 1-inch pieces (no need to perfect the shape—rustic is cute!).
3. Boil (Baking Soda Bath)
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
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Bring water + baking soda to a boil. Boil bites in batches for 20-30 seconds (they’ll float).
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Remove with a slotted spoon, drain, and place on the baking sheet.
4. Bake & Serve
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Sprinkle with coarse salt.
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Bake for 12-15 mins until deep golden brown.
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Brush with melted butter right out of the oven.
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Serve warm with cheese sauce or spicy mustard!
Tips for Success
✔ Starter must be active (bubbly, passes float test).
✔ No baking soda? Use food-grade lye (3% solution) for authentic pretzel flavor.
✔ Make ahead: Freeze unbaked bites after boiling—bake straight from frozen (+2-3 mins).
Why You’ll Love These
✅ Sourdough adds depth—less yeast, more flavor!
✅ Perfect texture—crispy outside, soft inside.
✅ Kid-friendly (shape into knots or sticks for fun variations).
Want them sweeter? Swap salt for cinnamon sugar after baking!
Need a dip recipe? Try my 3-ingredient beer cheese sauce:
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1 cup shredded cheddar + ½ cup beer + 1 tbsp cornstarch (simmer until thick). 😋
Happy baking! Let me know if you want a sourdough discard version.