Sourdough Onion Pretzel Bites

Sourdough Onion Pretzel Bites are a savory and sophisticated twist on a classic snack. By infusing a tangy sourdough base with golden caramelized onions, these soft and chewy bites offer a depth of flavor that is perfect for entertaining or a gourmet snack at home.

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This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a delicious German-American snack. The process involves slow-cooking onions to bring out their natural sweetness before kneading them into a soft, elastic dough that rises for two hours to develop its airy texture.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 g) active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
• 2 ½ cups (320 g) bread flour
• ⅔ cup (160 ml) warm water
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• 6 cups (1.4 L) water
• ¼ cup (60 g) baking soda
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
• Optional: minced chives or dried onion flakes

Instructions

Step 1

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Add diced onion and ½ tsp salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are golden and caramelized, about 12–15 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, bread flour, warm water, melted butter, sugar, and 1 tsp salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3

Add cooled caramelized onions to the dough. Knead by hand (or with a dough hook) for 7–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Place dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 6

Turn dough onto a floured surface. Divide into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 12-inch (30 cm) rope, then cut each rope into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces.

Step 7

Bring 6 cups water to a boil in a large pot. Carefully add baking soda (it will bubble). Working in batches, drop pretzel bites into the boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and arrange on prepared baking sheets.

Step 8

Brush each bite with beaten egg. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and optional toppings like minced chives or dried onion flakes.

Step 9

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until deep golden brown.

Step 10

Let cool slightly before serving warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra flavor, add ½ tsp garlic powder to the dough. It is important to let the caramelized onions cool completely before adding them to the sourdough mixture to ensure the dough rises properly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can customize the toppings by using minced chives or dried onion flakes. These bites are freezer-friendly; once baked, they can be frozen and later reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these warm pretzel bites with a variety of dips, such as spicy mustard, a rich cheese sauce, or a creamy onion-based dip to complement the sweetness of the caramelized onions.

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These Sourdough Onion Pretzel Bites are a rewarding bake that brings a professional touch to your appetizer spread. Enjoy the combination of soft dough, sweet onions, and a salty finish in every mouthful.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What role does the sourdough starter play?

The sourdough starter provides natural leavening and a subtle tang, enhancing the texture and depth of flavor in each bite.

→ How does caramelizing onions affect the flavor?

Slow cooking onions brings out their natural sweetness, adding a rich, savory contrast to the pretzel's slightly tangy dough.

→ Why is a baking soda bath used before baking?

Boiling the dough pieces in a baking soda bath creates the traditional chewy crust and deep brown color characteristic of pretzels.

→ Can these bites be frozen for later?

Yes, after baking and cooling, the pretzel bites freeze well and can be reheated in the oven for a fresh-baked taste.

→ What toppings complement these bites?

Flaky sea salt enhances the crust, while optional additions like minced chives or onion flakes add extra flavor and visual appeal.