Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Are you ready for a delightful treat that brings smiles and warmth to your family? Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are perfect for any occasion! Picture this: thick, chewy bars packed with melty chocolate chips and the unique tangy flavor of sourdough. They’re easy to whip up and incredibly satisfying, making them a great go-to recipe for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends. Did you know this recipe also uses unfed sourdough starter? It’s a fantastic way to make use of something that might otherwise go to waste. If you love classic chocolate chip cookies, you’ll want to try these bars for a change. Let’s dive into this scrumptious experience that the whole family will adore!
What is Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars?
So, what’s in a name like Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars? Well, it’s all about combining two beloved treats into one scrumptious dessert! Have you ever thought about why sourdough is included? It’s like a secret ingredient that adds a lovely depth of flavor and a slightly chewy texture. Who wouldn’t love a cookie bar that is easy to make and delicious? As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I can assure you, these cookie bars will do just that! So why not try this recipe and impress your loved ones?
Why You’ll Love This:
There are countless reasons to adore Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars! First, the rich, buttery flavor with the right amount of sweetness and that gooey chocolate goodness makes them irresistible. Secondly, making these bars at home is cost-effective, and you’ll know exactly what goes in, avoiding any mystery ingredients found in store-bought treats. Finally, with optional walnuts for that crunch, the combination of flavors is simply divine! If you enjoy these bars, be sure to check out our classic chocolate chip cookie recipe for another delicious experience. Get ready to bake and enjoy!
How to Make Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars :
Quick Overview
Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are impressively easy to prepare in just 15 minutes, with baking taking about 25-30 minutes. You’ll love how quickly this recipe comes together! Imagine soft, chewy bars that meld the tang of sourdough with rich chocolate chips. With just a little effort, you’ll have a delightful treat for your family!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough starter, unfed
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips or chunks
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step:
- Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until the sugars are well blended.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
- Incorporate sourdough: Gently fold in the sourdough starter until everything is well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
- Fold in chocolate and nuts: Gently fold in those delightful chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).
- Spread in pan: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and cut: Let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting out and cutting into bars. Enjoy!
What to Serve Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars With:
These delightful bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a complete dessert experience, serve them alongside a warm mug of milk or a rich cup of coffee. You could also enjoy them as an afternoon snack with some fresh fruit.
Top Tips for Perfecting:
- Choose your chocolate wisely: Use high-quality chocolate chips or chunks for the best flavor. Dark chocolate adds a nice contrast to the sweetness.
- Don’t skip the resting: Letting the dough rest for a few minutes before baking can help enhance the flavors.
- Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to mix in other goodies like dried fruit or different types of nuts for variety.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
To store your Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to two months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a couple of minutes.
FAQs:
Can I use fed sourdough starter?
Yes, you can! Using a fed sourdough starter will add a milder flavor but will still work well.
Are these bars chewy or crunchy?
They are chewy and soft—perfect cookie bar texture!
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! You can replace the butter with coconut oil or use gluten-free flour for a friendly alternative.
Conclusion
Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on a classic treat! With a blend of simple ingredients and easy preparation, these bars are sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today, and watch as they quickly disappear from the pan!
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough starter, unfed
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips or chunks
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Stir in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the sourdough starter and mix until incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).
- Spread batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before cutting into bars and serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, use dark chocolate chips or a mix of milk and dark chocolate. Store bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
