Name: Sourdough Double Chocolate Chip Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (softened); 1/2 cup White Sugar; 1 cup Brown Sugar; 2 large Eggs; 1 cup Sourdough Discard (or active sourdough starter); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder (Dutch-processed preferred); 1 package Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix; 2-2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (adjust as necessary); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; Pinch Salt (to taste); 1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips (or substitute with milk/white chocolate)

When my kitchen filled with the rich, warm smell of baking, I knew I had stumbled upon a true gem: Sourdough Double Chocolate Chip Cookies. This delightful treat marries the tang of sourdough discard with a fudgy cocoa twist, serving up an unexpected flavor experience that elevates any cookie moment. These gooey cookies are not just a chocolate-lover’s dream; they’re also a quick and easy bake, requiring less than an hour from start to finish without any tedious chilling. Perfect for those cherished moments when you need a sweet boost or as a cozy dessert to share with family, these cookies create warmth and joy in every bite. Are you ready to turn your sourdough discard into something delicious?

Why are these cookies a game-changer?

Irresistible Flavor: Revel in the rich chocolate experience that combines dark chocolate chips with a hint of tang from sourdough, creating an unforgettable taste.

Quick to Bake: You won’t spend all day in the kitchen—these cookies come together in under an hour, no chilling required!

Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, these cookies are bound to be a crowd-pleaser, satisfying both adults and kids alike.

Gooey Goodness: Enjoy the fudgy texture that melts in your mouth, making each bite a decadent treat reminiscent of a brownie.

Waste Not, Want Not: Transform leftover sourdough discard into these delightful sweets, a smart way to avoid food waste while treating yourself. Try serving them warm with a glass of cold milk, paired perfectly with my Cotton Candy Cookies for an adventurous dessert platter!

Sourdough Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients

Transform your baking with these lush cookies!

For the Batter
• Salted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt.
• White Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with cookie spread; no direct substitute recommended.
• Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a caramel flavor; can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients together; for a vegan option, use flaxseed meal or applesauce.
• Sourdough Discard – Adds a slight tang and moisture, enhancing chewiness; can use active sourdough starter if needed.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; substitute with vanilla bean paste for a stronger taste.
• Baking Soda – Provides leavening for cookie rise; must be used for best results.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; adjust according to taste preference.
• Cocoa Powder – Provides rich chocolate flavor; use Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder taste.
• Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix – Ensures a fudgy texture; do not skip this key ingredient!
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates structure in cookies; can be substituted with gluten-free flour mix or oat flour for a gluten-free version.
• Dark Chocolate Chips – Adds chunks of chocolate goodness; can replace with milk or white chocolate if desired.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sourdough Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Make the Dough
Begin by creaming 1 cup of softened salted butter with 1/2 cup of white sugar and 1 cup of brown sugar in a stand mixer for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Then, add 2 large eggs, 1 cup of sourdough discard, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually sift in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder and 1 package of instant chocolate pudding mix, then mix in 2-2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt until you have a soft dough. Finally, fold in 1 cup of dark chocolate chips.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This temperature ensures the cookies bake evenly, resulting in perfectly gooey sourdough double chocolate chip cookies. Allow about 10 minutes for the oven to reach the desired temperature, which will give you just enough time to prepare the baking sheets.

Step 3: Prepare Baking Sheets
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking during baking. Use an ice cream scoop or spoon to drop heaping tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each dough ball. This spacing allows the cookies to spread beautifully and form those delightful chewy edges.

Step 4: Bake Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want the edges to be firm while the centers appear slightly under-baked for that gooey texture. Once they look just right, remove the tray from the oven—don’t worry if the centers are soft; they will firm up as they cool.

Step 5: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting time enables the flavors to develop and the steam to escape, giving you perfectly textured sourdough double chocolate chip cookies. Let them cool completely on the rack before indulging in their chocolaty goodness!

What to Serve with Sourdough Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Indulge in a complete dessert experience that complements the rich, gooey goodness of these chocolatey treats.

Cold Milk: The classic pairing that enhances the cookies’ sweetness and balances the rich flavors, offering a nostalgic taste of childhood.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible à la mode dessert; the melty ice cream creates a heavenly combination with the chocolate.
Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness of the cookies, providing a refreshing contrast that brightens up every bite.
Coffee: A strong cup of coffee offers a delightful bitterness that intensifies the chocolate flavors, making it a true treat for coffee lovers.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Elevate your cookies by drizzling a rich chocolate sauce on top. It adds an extra layer of indulgence that chocolate lovers won’t be able to resist!
Whipped Cream: Fluffy whipped cream on the side adds a cloud-like texture, enhancing the overall experience with each sweet, creamy bite.
Dulce de Leche: This caramel-like sauce brings a delightful richness that pairs beautifully with the flavor profile of sourdough double chocolate chip cookies.
Espresso: For a sophisticated twist, serve espresso alongside. The deep flavors create a wonderful contrast, making it a great after-dinner treat.

These serving suggestions will help you create memorable moments around the table, transforming each cookie encounter into a special occasion.

How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their softness and freshness. Adding a slice of bread can help retain moisture.
Fridge: If you live in a warmer climate, sealing cookies in an airtight container and refrigerating them can extend their shelf life to about 1 week without drying out.
Freezer: Freeze your cookie dough balls in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. This method preserves flavor and texture for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake the frozen cookie dough straight from the freezer by adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time for perfectly gooey sourdough double chocolate chip cookies.

Sourdough Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookies and make them your own!

Nutty Delight: Stir in 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The combination of chocolate and nuts adds a rich texture that’s simply irresistible.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or espresso powder to the batter for a flavor boost. These spices enhance the chocolate and give your cookies a unique twist that surprises the palate.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or oat flour to make these cookies gluten-free. These alternatives allow everyone to enjoy your delicious cookies without sacrificing taste.
Cherry Chocolate: Mix in dried cherries or cranberries along with your dark chocolate chips. The sweet-tart burst of fruit adds an exciting layer to each bite that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Flavorful Chips: Swap dark chocolate chips for other flavors like white chocolate or butterscotch. Each type brings a distinct sweetness, providing a fun twist on the classic recipe.
Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of one orange or lemon into the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor. This bright touch balances out the richness of chocolate and gives your cookies a lively essence.
Secret Ingredient: Incorporate a scoop of peanut butter for a decadent chocolate-peanut butter combination. The creamy texture merges wonderfully with the fudgy cookie for an ultimate treat.
Fruity Surprise: Toss in a handful of chocolate-covered raisins or mini marshmallows for extra sweetness and texture. These additions create a delightful surprise within the gooey goodness.

Feel free to experiment and combine these variations as you like! For instance, why not pair them with a luscious dessert like my Chocolate Avocado Truffles for a unique dessert spread? Whatever twists you choose, these cookies are sure to delight!

Expert Tips for Sourdough Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality dark chocolate chips for the best flavor. Cheap chocolate can lead to a disappointing outcome in your sourdough double chocolate chip cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense cookies. Aim for a soft, pliable dough for that perfect chew.
Check Doneness: Bake one cookie first to gauge timing. A slightly under-baked center will provide the delightful gooeyness you crave from these cookies.
Storage Secrets: Store your cookies with a slice of bread in an airtight container to maintain moisture. This keeps them soft and enjoyable longer.
Freezing Dough: You can freeze cookie dough balls for later. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly when using frozen dough for your sourdough double chocolate chip cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Sourdough Double Chocolate Chip Cookies are ideal for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. To maintain the quality, make sure to refrigerate the dough—this prevents browning and helps the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a prepared baking sheet and bake as instructed, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if the dough is particularly cold. Enjoy the effortless convenience of baking fresh cookies without the last-minute rush!

Sourdough Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of sourdough discard should I use?
Absolutely! You can use any sourdough discard, whether it’s from your regular baking routine or an active starter. It adds moisture and a slight tang that really enhances the flavor of these cookies. Just ensure that your discard is not too old and has a pleasant smell—dark spots or an off odor mean it’s best to discard it.

How should I store the cookies after baking?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, consider adding a slice of bread in the container; this will help retain moisture and keep them deliciously chewy.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! To freeze cookie dough, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are spaced apart. Freeze them until solid, then transfer the dough balls into a zip-top bag, where they will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 2–3 minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies come out too cakey?
If your cookies turn out too cakey, it could be due to overmixing the dough or adding too much flour. Always mix until just combined—this helps the cookies maintain their chewy texture. If you notice that the dough feels dry or crumbly, you can add a bit more melted butter or an extra tablespoon of sourdough discard to help achieve the needed consistency.

Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, chocolate is toxic to pets, especially dogs. It’s crucial to keep these delicious sourdough double chocolate chip cookies out of reach of any furry friends. If you’re looking for pet-friendly baking recipes, consider making treats specifically designed for pets.