These Yeast-Free Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites are soft, chewy, and oh-so-fun to make! Using leftover sourdough discard, they come together quickly and taste amazing.
Perfect for snack time or movie night, I love dipping them in mustard or cheese sauce. Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds (or thirds)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Discard: This is the star ingredient! Using unfed sourdough discard adds flavor and a slight tang. If you don’t have any on hand, you could use plain yogurt or even applesauce for moisture, though it’ll change the flavor a bit.
All-Purpose Flour: This keeps the pretzel bites chewy and soft. If you’re looking to make a healthier version, whole wheat flour can be a good substitute, just note it may alter the texture slightly.
Greek Yogurt: I recommend full-fat for creaminess. If you need a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or a nut-based yogurt. Just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened.
Baking Soda: This ingredient serves two purposes: it helps with the dough’s rising and is used in the boiling bath for that classic pretzel crust. If you run out, you could use baking powder but adjust the amount since it’s less potent.
How Do I Get My Pretzel Bites to Be Soft and Chewy?
The trick to achieving that perfect soft and chewy texture lies in the boiling soda bath. This step is crucial as it helps create that shiny crust. Here’s how to do it:
- Boil the water and add baking soda before dropping any dough bites in.
- Make sure each dough bite is boiled for exactly 30 seconds. Too little time won’t set the crust, while too much can make them tough.
- Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the bites and transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet to avoid sticking.
By following this step, you’ll set the right foundation for deliciously chewy pretzel bites!
Yeast-Free Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed, discard from your sourdough starter)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat works best)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda (for boiling water bath)
- Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt for sprinkling
- 1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus around 15 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have delicious pretzel bites ready to enjoy in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dough
Start by mixing the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Then, add the sourdough discard and Greek yogurt. Stir until a shaggy dough begins to form.
2. Knead the Dough
Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for 3-4 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic but still a bit sticky. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in more flour until it’s manageable.
3. Shape the Pretzel Bites
Divide your dough into two portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 1/2-inch thick. Cut each rope into 1-inch pieces to create your pretzel bites.
4. Prepare the Boiling Soda Bath
In a large pot, bring around 4 cups of water to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add 1 tablespoon of baking soda. This will give the pretzel bites their signature flavor and color!
5. Boil the Pretzel Bites
Working in batches, drop the dough bites into the boiling soda water for 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Apply Egg Wash and Salt
Gently brush each pretzel bite with the egg wash for a nice golden finish. Then, sprinkle them generously with coarse sea salt or pretzel salt for that perfect salty crunch.
7. Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pretzel bites for about 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
8. Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce. They’re perfect for snacking or as appetizers at parties!
Enjoy your chewy, flavorful, yeast-free sourdough discard pretzel bites!
Can I Use Different Types of Flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour. Just keep in mind that this may alter the texture and flavor slightly. You might need to adjust the liquid based on the flour used.
How Long Do These Pretzel Bites Last?
These pretzel bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft, consider microwaving them for a few seconds before serving.
Can I Freeze the Pretzel Bites?
Absolutely! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy!
What Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular plain yogurt or even sour cream. For dairy-free options, try coconut yogurt or a nut-based yogurt; just ensure it’s plain and unsweetened for the best results.
