Sourdough Pretzel Bites
Sourdough Pretzel Bites are chewy, buttery snacks that combine the tangy flavor of sourdough with the iconic pretzel crust, offering a deliciously salty and satisfying bite perfect for game days, parties, or cozy nights at home.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: About 40 pretzel bites
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Contains gluten; adapt with gluten-free flour for gluten-free option
Basic Ingredients
- Sourdough Starter: 1/2 cup (active and bubbly)
- Warm Water: 3/4 cup (about 100°F/38°C)
- All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (softened)
- Baking Soda: 1/4 cup (for boiling water)
- Coarse Salt: 1-2 tablespoons (for sprinkling)
- Prepare the Dough: Mix the active sourdough starter with warm water and a pinch of sugar to activate the yeast. Add all-purpose flour and softened butter, combining everything until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until perfect texture is achieved.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and allow it to rise at room temperature for 4 to 6 hours until it roughly doubles in size and becomes airy and bubbly.
- Shape the Pretzel Bites: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, punch down gently, and divide it into small walnut-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a short rope and cut into bite-sized bits.
- Boil the Bites: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add baking soda. Drop the pretzel bites in batches for 30 seconds until they float and develop a slight crust. Remove using a slotted spoon and transfer to a baking sheet.
- Bake to Perfection: Sprinkle the bites with coarse salt and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown with a classic pretzel sheen.
Notes
- Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for best rise and flavor.
- Keep boiling time short and gentle to develop crust without sogginess.
- Use coarse sea salt for an authentic crunchy finish.
- Bake immediately after boiling for optimal texture and color.
- Shape pieces uniformly for consistent baking results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 pretzel bites
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 12 mg
Keywords: Sourdough, Pretzel Bites, Snack, Appetizer, Baking, Party Food