Brown Butter Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies

Name: Brown Butter Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup sourdough discard; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

Indulge in the delightful combination of nutty brown butter and chocolate chips, all while reducing food waste with this creative sourdough discard recipe.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:50:20.720Z

These Brown Butter Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just delicious but also a fantastic way to use up leftover sourdough starter. The brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that takes the classic chocolate chip cookie to a whole new level. Perfect for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Nutty flavor from browned butter enhances the chocolate richness
Uses sourdough discard, reducing food waste
Soft and chewy texture with a crispy edge
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

      

The Magic of Brown Butter

Brown butter, or 'beurre noisette,' is a culinary treasure that elevates any recipe with its rich, nutty flavor. The process of browning butter involves cooking it until the milk solids turn golden brown, resulting in a deep, aromatic essence. This flavor enhancement not only deepens the taste of your cookies but also adds complexity that complements the sweetness of the chocolate chips beautifully.

Using brown butter in your chocolate chip cookies is a game changer. The warm, toasty notes of the browned butter balance the sweetness while creating a luxurious mouthfeel. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast between the nutty base and the rich chocolate, making these cookies a treat for any cookie lover.

Sourdough Discard: A Sustainable Choice

Incorporating sourdough discard into your cookie recipe is an excellent way to minimize food waste. Instead of tossing out the leftover starter, you can transform it into a delicious treat that your family and friends will love. This not only makes your baking more sustainable but also adds a subtle tanginess to the cookies, enhancing their flavor profile.

Using sourdough discard in baking isn't just eco-friendly; it also contributes to a unique texture. The natural fermentation process in sourdough can add moisture and chewiness to your cookies, creating a delightful contrast with the crispy edges. Plus, it’s a creative way to utilize ingredients that would otherwise go unused in your kitchen.

The Perfect Cookie Texture

Achieving the perfect cookie texture is often a matter of balancing ingredients and baking time. This recipe strikes the right balance between soft and chewy with a slightly crispy edge. The combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar ensures a moist, tender crumb, while the baking time allows the edges to crisp up just right.

For those who prefer a softer cookie, you can adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on them as they bake; removing them from the oven just as they start to turn golden will yield a softer center. Alternatively, if you love a firmer cookie, let them bake a minute or two longer for a crunchier bite.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start baking for a smooth process.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sourdough discard
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to achieve the perfect cookies.

Brown the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the browned butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix well. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and sourdough discard, stirring until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, combining until just incorporated.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious homemade cookies with a glass of milk!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their soft and chewy texture for several days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and they can last for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up. This way, you'll always have a delicious cookie ready for a quick treat or an unexpected guest.

Customizing Your Cookies

One of the best parts of baking cookies is the endless customization options. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate for a unique twist. You can also add nuts, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the flavor even further.

If you're looking for a healthier version, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or adding oats for added texture and nutrition. These simple adjustments can make your cookies a bit more wholesome while still delivering on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ How do I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough balls and bake them fresh whenever you want.

→ What can I substitute for sourdough discard?

You can replace it with an equal amount of yogurt or applesauce if you don't have sourdough discard.