Sourdough Discard Pretzel Bites

Instructions

1. Whisk yeast into milk and sugar with paddle attachment.
2. Cover with plastic wrap and let yeast bubble up and activate for about 10-15 minutes. It will look foamy and bubbly.
3. Add discard and gently mix with yeast mixture.
4. Switch out the paddle for the dough hook. Add the dry ingredients and mix until there is no flour showing.
5. With mixer still going on medium-low, add the softened butter. It will take a little bit for the butter to be completely absorbed.
6. Let the mixer knead the dough for about 8 minutes. Dough should be smooth.
7. Pull the dough into a tight ball and divide into 5 equal portions. Roll those 5 pieces into tight balls and place on tray and cover with plastic wrap.
8. Let the dough rest for about 15-30 minutes.
9. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
10. Roll each ball into a rope about 18 inches long. Using a pizza cutter or bench scraper, cut the rope into 1 1/2 inch pieces. Place all the cut pieces on the baking sheet and put into the freezer for 15 minutes.
11. While the dough is in the freezer, start a pot of boiling water for the baking soda bath. Once the water has come to a boil, drop a handful of dough balls into the boiling water. Once they float, use a slotted spoon to remove the balls and place on baking sheet with parchment paper. Make sure they are not touching.
12. Sprinkle with salt and bake for about 12-15 minutes.
13. While bites are baking, melt butter in a bowl. Add cooked bites to melted butter and toss to coat evenly.
14. ENJOY!!!!