Delicious Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins for a Sweet Breakfast

I still remember the first time I made these Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins in my cozy kitchen—it was one of those early spring mornings when the light streaming through the window felt soft and hopeful. The magical aroma of buttery, flaky sourdough laminated dough mixed with the sweet hint of melting chocolate chips filled the air, instantly waking up my senses. These Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins quickly became a beloved staple at our breakfast table, a delightful sourdough pastry hybrid that captures the best of both worlds: the crusty tang of sourdough and the pillowy layered delight of a cruffin.

We’ve all had those mornings where I fumble around trying to piece together a breakfast that pleases the whole family, right? Well, these Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins were my “aha” moment—a chocolate chip breakfast treat that brings smiles even on the most chaotic weekday mornings. I perfected this cruffin sourdough recipe over several weekends, tweaking the sourdough laminated dough and mastering the cruffin baking technique that yields those perfect crispy layers. It’s become my go-to when I want something special but fuss-free for the family. Plus, it’s a definite showstopper, which is always nice around here when guests drop by unexpectedly.

I love how this sourdough pastry hybrid fits right into our busy family life. Whether it’s a Saturday brunch or a midweek treat, these Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins have this way of making any moment feel cozy and indulgent without a ton of stress. And honestly, as much as I adore baking, there have been mishaps too—like the time I forgot to chill the dough properly and ended up with a disappointing floppiness instead of those tidy layers! If you’ve ever wrestled with laminated dough or wondered how to get that perfect cruffin shape, you’re in for some tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way. If you want a fun little project that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering smells and your family with happy faces, stick around—I’m bringing you everything you need to know to make the best Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins.

Oh, and if you enjoy recipes like this, you might love my spin on other chocolate chip treats like the chocolate chip cannoli pie or the chocolate chip cheesecake ball—both crowd-pleasers in their own right! Ready to dive into the wonderful world of cruffin sourdough recipe magic? Let’s get started.

For some wonderful stories and baking experiences about sourdough cruffins crafted by fellow bakers, you can check out this homemade cruffins recipe and baking experience. It’s like a little community kitchen where everyone shares their journey, just like we do here!


What You’ll Need for This Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins

Alright, girlfriend, before we get our hands delightfully messy with this cruffin sourdough recipe, here’s the lineup of ingredients that make these Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins sing:

  • 150g active sourdough starter (100% hydration) – I always use my bubbly, well-fed starter because it gives the perfect tang to the sourdough laminated dough.
  • 250g all-purpose flour – Go for unbleached if you can—it plays nicer with the sourdough flavors and helps create a tender crumb.
  • 50g granulated sugar – A little sweetness for that chocolate chip breakfast treat vibe.
  • 150ml whole milk – Warm, to help the yeast and starter do their magic.
  • 1 tsp salt – To balance the flavors perfectly.
  • 150g unsalted butter (cold!) – This is THE ingredient for lamination. I always use European style butter for that richer taste and better layering.
  • 100g chocolate chips (semi-sweet) – Because what’s a chocolate chip sourdough cruffin without its star ingredient?
  • 1 egg (for egg wash) – Gives the cruffins that beautiful golden shine.
Top down raw ingredients for Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins on marble surface

When you’re shopping for these ingredients, you can usually find quality sourdough starters or even established mother starters at local farmer’s markets or specialty baking shops. For butter, those European sticks are a small splurge but make a world of difference in your cruffin baking technique, trust me. It’s one of those little things I learned after a couple of failed attempts where the dough just wouldn’t crisp up right.

Here’s a Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins trick I picked up: Make sure your butter is well chilled and properly lamination-ready. If you’re short on time, you can freeze the butter block for a few minutes before incorporating—it helps with maintaining the layers without melting too soon.

For busy families making these, I found that prepping the dough the night before, letting it ferment slowly in the fridge, saves so much morning hassle. Also, chocolate chips keep well in the pantry, but if you buy in bulk, portion and store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh and ready for your next chocolate chip sourdough pastry hybrid indulgence.

If leftover ingredients hang around, remember sourdough starters thrive in the fridge for a few days with regular feedings, and butter can be frozen for longer-term storage. It’s all about smoothing out those baking waves so Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins can become your luscious, routine chocolate chip breakfast treat.

For ingredient tips and tricks, visit this lovely Sourdough Cruffins Step-by-Step guide which gives great insight into working with sourdough laminated dough.


Let’s Make This Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins Together

Okay love, roll up your sleeves because we’re about to get down to the fun part—making those delicious Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins. Don’t stress if you’ve never tackled sourdough laminated dough before; I’ve been there, and I’m here to walk you through it.

  1. Mix the dough base: In a big bowl, combine your sourdough starter, flour, sugar, warm milk, and salt. Stir it until it becomes a shaggy dough. Don’t worry if it looks messy at first—that’s totally normal!
  2. Knead it out: Lightly flour your surface and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes till smooth and elastic. I learned the hard way with Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins that under-kneading makes the dough tough to roll, so be patient.
  3. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it proof for about 3 hours at room temperature, or overnight in the fridge for a slower ferment and deeper flavor.
  4. Prepare the butter block: While the dough is resting, take your cold butter and shape it into a square between parchment papers. Pop it back in the fridge till firm.
  5. Laminate the dough: Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about twice the size of your butter block. Place the cold butter in the center and fold the dough edges over to encase it completely. Now comes the cruffin baking technique magic!
  6. Roll & fold: Roll the dough out again into a long rectangle, then fold it into thirds (like a letter). Chill for 30 minutes to firm up the butter again. Repeat this rolling and folding process 2 more times, chilling the dough between folds. This step creates those beautiful sourdough laminated dough layers.
  7. Incorporate chocolate chips: During the last roll-out, sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly. Be careful not to overdo it or they’ll melt into a gooey mess too quickly.
  8. Shape the cruffins: Cut the dough into strips, then roll each strip tightly. Pop them into a greased muffin tin to hold their shape while baking.
  9. Final proof: Let them rise again for 1-2 hours until puffy but not doubling. This timing can vary, but in my kitchen, Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins usually take about 6-8 hours total from mixing to baking, including those tempting waiting periods.
  10. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and brush each cruffin with an egg wash for that gorgeous shine. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  11. Cool & enjoy: Let them cool just enough so you don’t burn your tongue (I speak from experience), and enjoy that rich, sourdough pastry hybrid flavor melded with melty chocolate.

While the Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins is cooking, I like to brew a fresh pot of coffee and tidy up the kitchen—because that’s what makes me feel ready to savor those first bites in peace!

If you’re curious about other cruffin baking techniques or ways to tweak this recipe, this Sourdough Cruffins Recipe with Lemon Curd Filling is a fun detour to try after you nail your chocolate chip version. They say practice makes perfect, and with these tips, your kitchen will smell like a bakery in no time.


How I Love to Serve This Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins

One of the sweetest parts about making Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins is watching my family devour them—especially with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey first thing in the morning. My kids adore these cruffins alongside a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of cocoa—it’s their ultimate chocolate chip breakfast treat, filling and indulgent without being overpowering.

Sometimes, I’ll serve these beauties with fresh fruit or a simple salad for a brunch that feels complete. I’ve found that seasonal berries from local markets complement the tangy sourdough laminated dough and the slight bitterness of the dark chocolate chips perfectly. During holidays, I’ve experimented with adding orange zest to the dough, turning the Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins into a festive breakfast centerpiece. It’s incredible how versatile this sourdough pastry hybrid can be.

Presentation-wise, I like dusting a little powdered sugar on top or serving them in a rustic basket lined with a linen cloth—it makes the whole table feel inviting and charming. Plus, they freeze really well if you’re making ahead for a brunch party or want to spread the joy over a few days. Just reheat gently in the oven, and they’re just as delightful the next day.

Friends are always impressed when I bring Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins to brunch, and often ask for the recipe—guess that’s the real test, right? If you have extra, I recommend slicing them in half horizontally and toasting them for a quick snack or sandwich with Nutella and banana slices. That’s become a favorite after-school treat in our house.

Slight angle close up of finished Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins with glossy sheen

If you want pairing ideas, check out my Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie for an all-out chocolate chip celebration or try the Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie which shares the same heartwarming, chocolatey vibe. The mix of textures and flavors in these recipes reminds me why I adore sharing them as much as I enjoy eating them!


Your Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins Questions Answered

Q1: Can I use a regular yeast starter instead of sourdough starter for my Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins?
You can, but the sourdough starter gives that tang and complex depth that turns this into a true sourdough pastry hybrid. I tried regular yeast once, and while it worked, it lacked the signature rustic flavor I adore in these cruffins.

Q2: How do I prevent my laminated dough from becoming soggy with all those chocolate chips?
Great question! I learned the hard way that too many chocolate chips or putting them in too early can melt too much. Incorporating the chips during the last roll-out and making sure the dough is cold enough helps maintain crisp layers.

Q3: My cruffins didn’t rise enough—what went wrong?
This usually means your dough wasn’t proofed long enough or the kitchen was too cold. I keep a warm-ish spot in my kitchen during winter, and sometimes I cover the dough with a hot towel to encourage rising. Patience is key here.

Q4: Can I make these ahead and freeze them?
Absolutely! I freeze baked Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins wrapped tightly and reheat in a warm oven for about 10 minutes. They come out almost fresh-baked every time. Perfect for planning ahead!

Q5: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to two days. For anything longer, the freezer is your friend. My family and I sometimes slice leftover cruffins and toast them for breakfast to bring back that crispiness.

Q6: How do I master the cruffin baking technique for perfect layers?
It’s all about consistent rolling, folding, and chilling. If you rush these steps, the butter will meld into the dough and you lose those dreamy layers. Watching detailed tutorials like this Sourdough Cruffins Step-by-Step really helped me get the technique right.

Q7: Can I swap chocolate chips for other fillings?
Definitely! Some of my family members love a cinnamon sugar crumble, while others can’t resist a lemon curd filling (check out this Sourdough Cruffins Recipe with Lemon Curd Filling). Experiment with what you love—and that’s the joy of these sourdough pastry hybrids.

You know what I do when my Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins seem tricky? I remind myself it’s all part of the process, and then I brew a comforting cup of tea to enjoy while waiting for the magic to happen. Baking is my therapy, and these treats make it so worthwhile.


My Final Thoughts on This Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins

Making Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins holds such a cozy, special place in my heart because it blends the old-world charm of sourdough with the playful, indulgent side of a chocolate chip breakfast treat. It’s comfort food that’s also a little fancy—not to mention, it showcases my love for cruffin baking technique and sourdough laminated dough.

My Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins Pro Tips:

  • Always use a well-fed sourdough starter to get that lovely tang and rise.
  • Keep your butter cold and don’t rush the folds—patience here creates crisp, flaky layers.
  • Incorporate chocolate chips late to maintain their shape and texture without melting into the dough.

I’ve tried a bunch of variations with my family: swapping chocolate chips for toffee bits, using cinnamon sugar for a morning twist, or even adding orange zest for a bright burst of flavor. My teen daughter swears by the classic chocolate chip cruffin, while my husband can’t get enough of the lemon curd twist.

I hope you find this Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins recipe as joyful and approachable as I do. Making it your own, tweaking it for your family’s tastes, and sharing those moments around the breakfast table—that’s what makes cooking worthwhile. So grab your apron, and don’t be shy—give these Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins a try! Remember, a little kitchen mess is just part of the fun, and the delicious rewards are well worth it.

If after this you want to dive into more chocolate chip goodness, I highly recommend my Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Ball or revisit the Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie for even more family favorites.

Happy baking, friend! Here’s to your kitchen smelling like pure happiness and your home filled with laughter around these delightful Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins.

Cheers,
Liliana

Print

Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins

Freshly prepared Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins on white plate

Delight in these flaky, buttery Chocolate Chip Sourdough Cruffins that combine the tangy depth of sourdough with sweet chocolate chips for a perfect breakfast or dessert treat.

  • Author: Liliana
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup active sourdough starter
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp instant yeast
  • ¾ cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix sourdough starter, warm milk, and egg until combined.
  2. Add flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast; knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Incorporate softened butter gradually into the dough; continue kneading until fully absorbed and dough is silky.
  4. Cover the dough and let it rise at room temperature for 3-4 hours or until doubled in size.
  5. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches.
  6. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the dough.
  7. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice into 8 equal pieces.
  8. Place each piece into a greased muffin tin cup, spiral side up.
  9. Cover and let the cruffins proof for 1-2 hours or until puffy.
  10. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  11. Brush cruffins with egg wash made from egg yolk and water.
  12. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  13. Cool slightly before removing from tins and serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For an extra indulgence, drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!