Delicious Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

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!


  • 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.

IngredientQuantityNotes
Butter1 cup (2 sticks)Softened for easy mixing
Brown Sugar1 cupAdds moisture and depth of flavor
Granulated Sugar½ cupBalances sweetness
Eggs2 largeHelps bind the dough
Vanilla Extract1 tbspEnhances overall flavor
Sourdough Discard½ cupAdds slight tang and moisture
All-Purpose Flour2 ½ cupsProvides structure
Baking Powder1 tspHelps the bars rise slightly
Baking Soda½ tspEnsures even baking
Salt½ tspEnhances flavor balance
Chocolate Chips1 ½ cupsSemi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate

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!

  1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures even mixing and the best texture.
  2. Don’t Overmix the Dough – Mix just until combined to avoid dense bars.
  3. Try Different Chocolates – Experiment with white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even peanut butter chips.
  4. Add Nuts for Extra Crunch – Chopped pecans or walnuts add great texture.
  5. 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.

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.


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!

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