Description
Soft Sourdough Pretzel Bites combine the tangy depth of sourdough with a satisfyingly chewy texture and golden crust. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a savory treat. Easy to make with simple ingredients, they offer customizable flavors and a deliciously soft inside with a classic pretzel finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For Baking Soda Bath
- 8 cups water
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
Toppings
- Coarse salt for sprinkling
- Optional: Herbs (fresh rosemary or thyme)
- Optional: Cayenne or smoked paprika
- Optional: Sesame or poppy seeds
- Optional: Cinnamon sugar (plant-based) for sweet version
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Mix the active sourdough starter with warm water and vegetable oil. Gradually add the flour and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), stirring until a sticky dough forms. Knead gently for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let the dough rest for 4 to 6 hours until it doubles in size, allowing fermentation to develop flavor and softness.
- Shape the Pretzel Bites: Once risen, punch down the dough gently and roll it into a log on a floured surface. Cut the log into small, even bite-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a ball or slightly oval shape, keeping them uniform for even cooking.
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add baking soda. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Place batches of the dough bites into the water for about 30 seconds each, then remove with a slotted spoon. This step creates the signature pretzel crust and color.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer boiled bites to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly brush tops with vegetable oil and sprinkle with coarse salt or desired toppings. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown. Remove and cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use an active sourdough starter for best rise and flavor.
- Do not over-boil in the baking soda bath to avoid sogginess.
- Brushing with oil ensures a perfect crust and soft interior.
- Oven temperatures vary; check for a golden brown color to determine doneness.
- Allow pretzel bites to cool slightly to firm up without drying out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes active, plus 4-6 hours resting
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 pretzel bites
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: soft pretzel bites, sourdough pretzels, snack recipe, vegan pretzels, appetizer, party food