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Easy Homemade Sourdough Soft Pretzels (or Pretzel Bites)

Nothing beats the warm, soft, and slightly tangy taste of a homemade sourdough pretzel. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to sourdough, this soft sourdough pretzel recipe is easy to follow and gives you the best soft sourdough pretzels every time.

The secret? (A bread machine or stand mixer does all the kneading for you! Instructions for a stand mixer are also included!)

In this guide, I’ll show you how to make sourdough pretzels from scratch using sourdough discard or active sourdough starter. I’ll also share expert tips on how to get that classic pretzel flavor, the perfect chewy texture, and a beautiful golden-brown crust.

How to Make the Best Soft Sourdough Pretzels (Step by Step Guide)

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start shaping pretzels, let’s gather everything you’ll need:

• Sourdough starter (active or discard)
• Flour (I use unbleached all-purpose)
• Water (warm, around 100°F)
• Salt
• Sweetener (for a slight sweetness)
• Butter (melted, for richness)
• Baking soda (for boiling the pretzels)
• Coarse salt (for that signature finish)

Watch the sourdough pretzel video to see just how easy they are to make!

Step 1: Mixing the Pretzel Dough

Start by adding all the ingredients to the bowl of a stand mixer or directly into a bread machine. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook to knead for about 8–10 minutes until the pretzel dough is smooth and elastic.

If you’re using a bread machine, set it to the dough cycle and let it do all the work! This hands-off method makes sourdough baking so much easier.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

After kneading, cover the pretzel dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for about 1–2 hours (or let it rise right in your bread machine). The sourdough starter will naturally help the dough ferment and develop that signature sourdough tang.

Want to long-ferment? Store the dough in the refrigerator overnight for even better flavor!

Step 3: Shaping the Pretzels

Once the dough has risen, remove the pretzel dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.

How to Shape the Pretzels:

1. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 14-16 inches long.
2. Create the classic pretzel shape by twisting the ends and pressing them down (see my video for how to shape them).
3. If making pretzel bites, simply cut the dough into small pieces instead.

Shaped pretzels? Check! Now, let’s move on to boiling.

Step 4: The Secret to Soft and Chewy Pretzels – A Baking Soda Bath

Boiling pretzels in baking soda water for 30 seconds gives them their chewy and soft texture. It also helps create that deep golden color when baked.

How to Boil the Pretzels:

1. Bring a pot of water (6-8 cups) to a rolling boil.
2. Add ¼ cup baking soda to the water.
3. Drop in each pretzel and boil for 30 seconds.
4. Remove the pretzels with a slotted spoon and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Baking the Pretzels to Golden Perfection

How to Bake the Pretzels:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2. Sprinkle with coarse pretzel salt for that perfect bite.
3. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown.

Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing at this point!

Step 6: Enjoying Your Soft Sourdough Pretzels

Once your baked pretzels are out of the oven, you can enjoy them warm, with a side of mustard or cheese sauce. Want extra flavor? Brush the pretzels with melted butter for a soft and rich finish (my family actually prefers them without butter).

FAQs About Making Sourdough Pretzels

Can I use sourdough discard to make pretzels?

Yes! This is a great way to use sourdough discard instead of letting it go to waste. It adds a mild tangy flavor without needing an active rise.

What’s the difference between lye and baking soda for pretzels?

Traditional pretzels are made with lye, which gives them their distinct deep brown color and chewy texture. However, baking soda works well as a safe and easy alternative.

How do I reheat pretzels?

To reheat pretzels, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds.

Bonus: How to Make Sourdough Pretzel Bites

Want a fun snack? Try making sourdough pretzel bites instead of full-sized pretzels!

1. Roll the pretzel dough into a long rope.
2. Use a dough scraper to cut into bite-sized pieces.
3. Follow the same baking soda bath and baking instructions.

Sourdough discard pretzel bites are great for dipping and make the perfect party snack!

Final Tips for the Best Soft Sourdough Pretzels

✔ Use active sourdough starter or discard – both work!
✔ Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
✔ Let the pretzels rise a bit for better texture and flavor.
✔ Boil each pretzel in baking soda water for 30 seconds before baking.
✔ Enjoy warm pretzels with your favorite dips!

This soft sourdough pretzel recipe is a game-changer. Whether you make traditional pretzels or sourdough pretzel bites, you’ll love the chewy, soft interior and crispy golden crust.

If you try this sourdough pretzel recipe, let me know in the comments or tag me on social media. Happy baking!

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