Brown Butter Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies

Name: Brown Butter Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, brown butter; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup sourdough discard; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These delicious cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with the tangy depth of sourdough discard, resulting in a delightful treat that you won't be able to resist.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:02:20.532Z

These Brown Butter Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect way to use up your sourdough discard while indulging in a rich, buttery treat. The brown butter adds a depth of flavor that elevates these cookies to a whole new level!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty brown butter
Sourdough discard adds a unique tang and chewiness
Perfect for using up leftovers while creating something special
A delightful treat that satisfies both cookie lovers and bakers

      

The Magic of Brown Butter

Brown butter is a game changer in baking, transforming ordinary recipes into extraordinary delights. When you cook butter until it turns golden brown, you unlock a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of your cookies. The process of browning butter involves cooking it slowly over medium heat, allowing the milk solids to caramelize. This not only adds depth to your cookies but also provides a beautiful aroma that fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist the urge to sneak a taste.

Incorporating brown butter into your chocolate chip cookies offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the sugars. The nuttiness of the brown butter pairs beautifully with the chocolate chips, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Each bite delivers a satisfying taste experience that will leave you craving more. Plus, the process of browning butter is simple and adds a gourmet touch to your baking.

Sourdough Discard Benefits

Using sourdough discard in your baking is not just a clever way to reduce waste, but it also enhances the texture and flavor of your cookies. The natural fermentation process in sourdough contributes a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the chocolate chips and sugars. This unique flavor profile makes these cookies stand out from traditional recipes, appealing to both sourdough enthusiasts and cookie lovers alike.

In addition to flavor, sourdough discard adds chewiness to the cookies, creating a satisfying texture that keeps you coming back for more. By incorporating sourdough into your baking, you’re not only making a delicious treat but also contributing to sustainability by utilizing what would otherwise be discarded. It's a win-win for your taste buds and the environment!

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Brown Butter Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, celebrating a birthday, or simply treating yourself after a long day, these cookies are sure to impress. Their unique flavor and chewy texture make them a standout dessert that your friends and family will rave about.

Additionally, they make a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Package them in a beautiful tin or box, and you have a heartfelt present that shows you care. With every bite, the recipient will appreciate the effort and love that went into creating such a delightful treat. They’re also great for sharing at potlucks or office parties, where everyone will be eager to ask for the recipe!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, brown butter
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup sourdough discard
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups chocolate chips

Make sure to let the brown butter cool slightly before mixing it with the sugars.

Instructions

Brown the Butter

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Add the sourdough discard and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden.

Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy warm, or store in an airtight container for later!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Brown Butter Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and chewy for up to a week, allowing you to savor them over several days. If you prefer a crispier texture, consider placing them in a container without a lid for a few hours to allow moisture to escape.

For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to get creative with your cookie recipe by adding different mix-ins. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can add a delightful crunch that complements the chewy texture of the cookies. You might also consider incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a burst of tart flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the chocolate chips.

If you’re a fan of different types of chocolate, try using a mix of dark, milk, and white chocolate chips for a more complex flavor profile. You can also experiment with flavored chocolate chips, such as sea salt caramel or peanut butter, to add an extra layer of deliciousness. These variations can make each batch of cookies uniquely special, ensuring there’s always something new to enjoy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes, regular sourdough starter can be used, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ How do I store these cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop and freeze, then bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for the chocolate chips?

You can use chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even white chocolate chips as alternatives.