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Looking for a unique twist on classic chocolate chip cookies? These Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect combination of chewy, chocolatey goodness with a hint of tanginess from sourdough discard. This recipe is a fantastic way to use up your sourdough starter while creating an irresistible treat!
Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- Great Way to Use Sourdough Discard – No waste, just deliciousness!
- Thick, Chewy, and Buttery – A perfect cookie bar texture.
- Easy to Make – No rolling or chilling dough required.
- Rich Chocolate Flavor – Loaded with melty chocolate chips.
- Customizable – Add nuts, caramel, or different chocolate varieties.
Ingredients for Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Softened for easy mixing |
Brown Sugar | 1 cup | Adds moisture and depth of flavor |
Granulated Sugar | ½ cup | Balances sweetness |
Eggs | 2 large | Helps bind the dough |
Vanilla Extract | 1 tbsp | Enhances overall flavor |
Sourdough Discard | ½ cup | Adds slight tang and moisture |
All-Purpose Flour | 2 ½ cups | Provides structure |
Baking Powder | 1 tsp | Helps the bars rise slightly |
Baking Soda | ½ tsp | Ensures even baking |
Salt | ½ tsp | Enhances flavor balance |
Chocolate Chips | 1 ½ cups | Semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate |
How to Make Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
Step 3: Add Sourdough Discard
- Stir in the sourdough discard, ensuring it is evenly distributed in the batter.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
Step 6: Bake
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Enjoy with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee!
5 Tips for Perfect Sourdough Cookie Bars
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures even mixing and the best texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough – Mix just until combined to avoid dense bars.
- Try Different Chocolates – Experiment with white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even peanut butter chips.
- Add Nuts for Extra Crunch – Chopped pecans or walnuts add great texture.
- Store Properly – Keep in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Variations to Try
- Salted Caramel Sourdough Bars – Swirl in caramel sauce before baking and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars – Add a few tablespoons of peanut butter to the dough.
- Espresso Chocolate Bars – Stir in a teaspoon of espresso powder for a mocha-like flavor.



Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes! If using an active starter, the bars may have a slightly more pronounced sourdough flavor.
How do I store these cookie bars?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Can I freeze the bars?
Absolutely! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum.
Try These Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Today!
If you have extra sourdough discard and a sweet tooth, this Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe is a must-try! These bars are buttery, chewy, and packed with chocolatey goodness. Whether for a snack, dessert, or sharing with friends, they are guaranteed to impress.
Enjoy baking and happy snacking!