Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Baking has always held a special place in my heart, and there’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. Sourdough chocolate chip cookies became an unexpected favorite during a time when I had plenty of sourdough discard on hand. It started as a way to minimize waste, but soon I discovered a delightful treat that balances rich chocolate flavors with a touch of tanginess from the sourdough.

The first time I shared these cookies with friends, their delighted expressions told me everything I needed to know. The combination of brown sugar and white sugar creates a chewy texture, while the chocolate chips melt into sweet pockets of goodness. Baking these sourdough chocolate chip cookies turned into a cherished routine, a chance to share warmth and joy with loved ones on lazy afternoons.

As you embark on your own baking journey with these incredible sourdough chocolate chip cookies, expect moments of joy, indulgence, and perhaps a story or two of your own to share. Baking connects us, and this recipe is a delicious way to celebrate that bond.

Part 1 — Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookies: The Basics

Fundamentals

Sourdough chocolate chip cookies are a delightful twist on the classic favorite. The unique addition of sourdough discard adds a mild tang and depth of flavor that elevates the cookie beyond the ordinary. This recipe offers the perfect balance of textures and tastes, with crispy edges and a soft, chewy center.

Understanding the components of the recipe can make all the difference in your results. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the browning of butter, which adds rich, nutty flavors, to the combination of sugars that influences the texture.

Preparation/Setup

Before diving into baking, ensure your workspace is ready. Clean your countertop and gather all ingredients to streamline the process. Start by measuring out your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and precision matters.

Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake. This step helps cookies achieve the desirable golden-brown edges. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper, which prevents sticking and promotes even baking.

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to create your sourdough chocolate chip cookies:

• 226 grams (1 cup) unsalted butter, browned
• 200 grams (1 cup) white sugar
• 220 grams (1 cup) brown sugar
• 200 grams (3/4 cup) sourdough discard
• 2 egg yolks (40g)
• 8 grams (2 teaspoons) vanilla extract
• 355 grams (2 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 6 grams (1 teaspoon) baking soda
• 4 grams (1 teaspoon) baking powder
• 4 grams (3/4 teaspoon) salt
• 350 grams (1 1/2 cups) chocolate chips

Directions

1. Melt the butter in a medium-sized frying pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once it begins to bubble, keep stirring until you spot small amber specks on the bottom of the pan (around 2-3 minutes). You should be left with 180g of browned butter.
2. Carefully pour the browned butter into a large mixing bowl and let it cool to room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Once the butter cools, mix in the white and brown sugars using a wooden spoon. Then add the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and sourdough discard, mixing until fully combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring to combine.
6. Once the dough is fully mixed, fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
7. For each cookie, scoop about 70g of dough, roll them into a ball, and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F and place five cookie balls on a lined baking sheet.
9. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
10. Let the cookies rest on the sheet for 5 extra minutes, sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired, and then transfer to a wire rack to cool.

Part 2 — Techniques for Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookies

Technique

Baking sourdough chocolate chip cookies can be an art. The method of browning the butter adds a rich depth of flavor that makes these cookies stand out. As the fat transforms into a nutty treasure, it enhances each bite. It’s essential to keep a close eye during this step — a minute too long can take the butter from perfection to burnt.

When mixing the dough, avoid overmixing. The goal is to combine the ingredients just until they come together. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, which we all want to avoid.

Tips/Tricks

To achieve the perfect texture, consider these tips and tricks:

• Chilling the Dough: Chilling your cookie dough is crucial. It helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors as they rest.
• Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit to customize your cookies.
• Flaky Sea Salt: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of your cookies just after baking for an added touch of flavor that complements the sweetness.

Part 3 — Perfecting Your Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookies

Perfecting Results

Perfecting your sourdough chocolate chip cookies comes down to a few key elements: ingredient quality, mixing techniques, and baking times. Utilize high-quality chocolate chips for a more indulgent experience. Pay attention to the dough’s texture; it should be soft yet manageable.

Experiment with baking times. Your oven may vary, and those last moments can turn a beautifully golden cookie into a slightly overdone one. Always start checking at the lower end of the recommended baking time for the best results.

Troubleshooting/Variations

Sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues:

• Flat Cookies: If your cookies spread too much, the dough might need more chilling time, or perhaps it contains too much liquid.
• Dry Cookies: Unsurprisingly, overbaking can lead to dryness. Ensure you stick to the baking time.
• Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to adjust the ratio of sugars or try adding different flavorings such as cinnamon or espresso powder for a unique twist.

Part 4 — Serving and Storing

Serving/Presentation

Serve your sourdough chocolate chip cookies warm, right from the oven, for the best experience. They pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. If you’re hosting, arrange them on a platter and garnish with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a pop of elegance.

Pairings/Storage

For serving, these cookies are delightful on their own but are equally fantastic alongside a scoop of ice cream. Storing is simple: keep leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze them for longer preservation. If freezing, separate layers with parchment paper for easy access on cookie cravings.

Wrap any chilled dough you didn’t use tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for later use.

When you invoke the magic of sourdough in your cookie-making, you not only create an extraordinary treat but also spark creativity and connection to the traditional art of baking. Use these techniques and tips to dream up your unique variations, creating memories that linger just as sweetly as the cookies themselves.

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