Sourdough Soft Pretzels – A Tangy Twist on a Classic Snack

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If you love the chewy, golden-brown perfection of a traditional soft pretzel, then you’re going to love this Sourdough Soft Pretzels recipe. Unlike conventional pretzels made with commercial yeast, these sourdough discard pretzels bring a whole new depth of flavor thanks to the tangy, slightly sour notes of sourdough starter. The best part? You can make them without needing extra yeast, and they’re ready for snacking the same day!

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making homemade sourdough pretzels, including step-by-step instructions, expert tips, flavor variations, serving ideas, and storage recommendations.

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Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Soft Pretzels

• No commercial yeast needed – The sourdough discard provides all the leavening power, giving them an authentic, old-world taste.
• Deep, tangy flavor – The natural fermentation adds complexity to the classic salted pretzel flavor.
• Easy same-day recipe – No need for an overnight fermentation; these pretzels are ready in just 6 hours.
• Crispy outside, soft inside – The signature baking soda bath creates that deep golden crust while keeping the inside soft and chewy.
• Versatile snack – Perfect for dipping into cheese sauce, mustard, or melted butter.

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What is Sourdough Discard?

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about sourdough discard. When you maintain a sourdough starter, you regularly feed it by removing a portion, known as the discard. Instead of throwing it away, you can use it in recipes like pancakes, waffles, crackers, and, of course, pretzels!

Using discard in soft pretzels not only eliminates food waste but also adds a subtle tangy flavor without requiring extra yeast.

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Essential Ingredients for Sourdough Soft Pretzels

To make perfect homemade sourdough pretzels, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:

Pretzel Dough Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ cups (300 grams) warm water – Helps activate the sourdough starter.
• ½ cup (113 grams) sourdough starter discard – Adds that signature sourdough tang.
• 1 tablespoon (12 grams) granulated sugar – Slightly sweetens and feeds the starter.
• 4 ¾ cups (565 grams) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and chew.
• 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and softness.
• 1 tablespoon (12 grams) kosher salt – Enhances the flavor.

Other Ingredients:

• 10 cups water – For the essential pretzel water bath.
• ⅔ cup baking soda – Helps create the signature deep brown crust.
• 1 large egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water – For the golden egg wash.
• Pretzel salt or coarse kosher salt – A must-have for the perfect pretzel topping.

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How to Make Sourdough Soft Pretzels – Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together warm water, sourdough discard, and sugar until fully dissolved.
2. Add the flour, melted butter, and kosher salt, then mix until a cohesive dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl and let it rise in a warm place (about 75°F) for 4 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Shape the Pretzels

1. Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface.
2. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces (about 130 grams each).
3. Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope and shape it into a pretzel:
   • Make a U-shape with the rope.
   • Twist the ends together twice.
   • Press the twisted ends onto the bottom of the U to form a classic pretzel shape.
4. Place shaped pretzels onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover them to proof for 1 hour.

Step 4: Prepare the Water Bath

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. In a large saucepan, bring 10 cups of water and ⅔ cup baking soda to a boil.
3. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water bath for 30 seconds, then use a slotted spatula to remove them and place them back on the parchment-lined sheet.

Step 5: Bake the Pretzels

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water to make an egg wash.
2. Brush the boiled pretzels with the egg wash and sprinkle with pretzel salt or coarse kosher salt.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the pretzels develop a deep golden-brown crust.
4. Let them cool for 10 minutes, then serve warm with mustard, cheese sauce, or melted butter.

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Tips for the Best Sourdough Soft Pretzels

✅ Use a kitchen scale – This recipe is best when measured in grams for accuracy.
✅ Don’t skip the baking soda bath – It’s what gives pretzels their signature color and texture.
✅ Let the dough rise properly – A longer rise develops better sourdough flavor.
✅ For extra chewy pretzels, add 1 tablespoon barley malt syrup to the dough.

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How to Store and Reheat Sourdough Pretzels

Storing:

• Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze them in a ziplock bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds, but this may soften them.

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Variations & Customizations

🔸 Cheesy Pretzels: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan before baking.
🔸 Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels: Brush with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar after baking.
🔸 Stuffed Pretzels: Fill with cheese or chocolate before shaping.
🔸 Jalapeño Cheddar Pretzels: Add diced jalapeños and shredded cheddar to the dough.

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Serving Ideas for Sourdough Soft Pretzels

These pretzels are perfect on their own but taste even better with delicious dips:

🧀 Cheese Dip: A warm, gooey cheese sauce is a must!
🥨 Classic Mustard: A tangy, spicy mustard pairs beautifully.
🧄 Garlic Butter: Melted butter with garlic and herbs is heavenly.
🍫 Chocolate Sauce: For a sweet treat, dip in melted chocolate!

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Final Thoughts

These Sourdough Soft Pretzels are an easy, no-yeast recipe that turns your sourdough discard into a golden-brown, chewy, and salty snack. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for later, they’re sure to become a family favorite!

Give this recipe a try and let us know in the comments how your homemade pretzels turned out! Happy baking! 🥨✨