There’s something truly comforting about the smell of chocolate mingling with that tangy hint of sourdough drifting through my kitchen—this is exactly how my journey with Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies started. It was one of those chilly Saturday afternoons when I realized my sourdough starter had produced quite a bit of discard, and instead of tossing it out, I wanted a treat that would make my whole family smile. So, I dove into sourdough baking with a twist, experimenting with a double chocolate cookies recipe that transformed our usual baking session into an all-around celebration.
My very first batch of Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies was a sweet surprise. I remember pulling those cookies—rich, fudgy, with just enough sourdough tang—from the oven and watching my youngest drag a chocolate-smeared smile across his face. We’ve all been there with easy sourdough desserts; sometimes you’re nervous about balancing flavors, or worried about how the texture will turn out, especially when tossing in sourdough discard cookies into a chocolate chip sourdough cookies combo. But, this recipe gave me that perfect marriage of tangy and sweet, soft and chewy, which quickly earned its spot as a family favorite for after-school snacks and weekend treats alike.
There’s also something pretty satisfying about rescuing sourdough discard—something many of us usually throw away—and turning it into these indulgent treats. It’s been a bit of a learning curve too, filled with “aha” moments; for example, I once almost skipped chilling the dough, only to discover that was the secret to getting those perfectly thick, chewy Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies. Between managing school runs, dinner chaos, and the inevitable pile of laundry, this cookie recipe fits beautifully into my busy kitchen workflow. It requires simple ingredients, minimal fuss, and delivers maximum chocolate satisfaction for the whole family.
If you’re curious about how this recipe evolved, I initially found inspiration from some lovely sourdough baking resources and chocolate chip sourdough cookies recipes, tweaking the ratios and chocolate types until I had that classic, comforting goodness down pat. My personal cooking philosophy at Delilita has always been about creating approachable, joyful, and nourishing food that feels like a warm hug—and this Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies recipe ticks all those boxes.
So, if you’ve been saving your sourdough discard wondering what to make next or just want a chocolatey, tangy cookie that brings a little extra love to your countertop, I’m excited to share this recipe with you. Let’s get started, shall we? And if you’re curious about similar treats, you might enjoy my Double Chocolate Chip Cookies or even my cozy Double Chocolate Banana Bread for another easy sourdough dessert.
What You’ll Need for This Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies
Here’s the lineup of ingredients for my beloved Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies—each one chosen to make these cookies the perfect blend of sourdough tang and rich chocolate.
- 1 cup (240g) sourdough discard – I always use a mature discard for my Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies because it brings out the best tang without overpowering the chocolate.
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed – Brown sugar adds that lovely caramel note.
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – Butter is key for that soft yet chewy texture.
- 1 large egg – Binds everything together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For a subtle warm lift.
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour – I love to use unbleached for a wholesome crumb.
- 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder – For a deep chocolate base.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Ensures a tender rise.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips – More chocolate, more happiness!

When making Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies, I recommend grabbing your cocoa powder and chocolate chips at a store that offers quality baking ingredients—sometimes buying in bulk can save you a few bucks, especially if you bake regularly. Hey, no need to break the bank for a little chocolate joy!
A little Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies trick I learned to save time is to use softened butter straight from the fridge in a pinch by grating it—you get faster creaming without melting it. Also, prepping your sourdough discard ahead (maybe the night before) can help your baking sessions go smoother and more in rhythm with your busy family life.
For storage tips: Keep your sourdough discard refrigerated in a clean jar and feed it regularly to keep it fresh. The remaining dry ingredients like cocoa and flour stay best in airtight containers away from heat and moisture, making your next batch of these double chocolate cookies recipe even easier to whip up.
If you want to peek into some ingredient swaps or other sourdough baking ideas, sites like Soft and Fudgy Sourdough Discard Chocolate Cookies – Make It … offer fantastic guides for sourdough discard cookies that might inspire your own tweaking. For a friendly take on chocolate chip sourdough cookies, Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie — The Boy Who Bakes has some lovely techniques worth checking out, too.
Let’s Make This Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies Together
Alright friend, grab your mixing bowls—it’s time to bake our Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies! Don’t worry if your first go-around looks a little wonky; I’ve had my share of flat or overly crumbly attempts before mastering this double chocolate cookies recipe, and I promise you’ll get the hang of it quickly.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This little step helps your cookies bake evenly and prevents those sticky bottom battles.
- Cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. I like to use a hand mixer here because it makes the job way quicker. Your Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies dough should start smelling heavenly at this point—like a promise of chocolate and caramel.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture and beat until fully combined. Here’s my little tip from sourdough baking trials: adding the wet ingredients slowly encourages smoother blending and less chance of curdling.
- Stir in your sourdough discard. Don’t be surprised by the slightly tangy smell—that’s just that lovely sourdough magic working its way into your cookies. You can learn more about working with sourdough discard cookies at Sourdough Discard Chocolate Cookies – Dirt and Dough.
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl—this helps keep your Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies light and crumb-free of lumps.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix until just combined. Overmixing is the enemy here; it can toughen the cookies instead of keeping that soft, chewy texture.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, giving a little extra love to those chocolate bits so they’re well scattered through the dough.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes, or if you can manage, an hour. This is a game-changer I stumbled across after a few too many misshapen cookies. The dough firms up, the flavors meld, and baking becomes much more forgiving.
- Scoop dough onto your prepared baking sheet in tablespoon-sized balls, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Remember, these Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies will spread slightly but stay delightfully thick.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look soft. Resist the urge to overbake; the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool. In my kitchen, this usually means my Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies come out perfectly every time around that magic 11-minute mark.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely—or if you’re like my kids (impatient!), let them sneak a warm bite or two right away!
While the Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies are in the oven, I often tidy up or take a few moments for myself, savoring that joyful anticipation. Also, this baking time is perfect to review other easy sourdough dessert ideas I’ve shared on my blog—like these cheery Heart-Shaped Chocolate Chip Cookies—great for special occasions.
Remember, your first batch might not be perfect, but with each trial, you’ll learn the quirks of your oven and dough, making these Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies into a dependable family favorite in no time.
How I Love to Serve This Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies

My family absolutely adores this Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies when I plate them up fresh alongside a cold glass of milk or a creamy cup of coffee. They’re incredibly versatile, making them perfect for after-school snacks, weekend breakfasts with a hint of indulgence, or even wrapped up as little treats for neighbors.
Pairing these cookies with a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or a handful of raspberries, brings out the rich depth of the chocolate and balances the sweetness naturally. During the holidays, I’ve even served these alongside homemade vanilla ice cream sprinkled with toasted nuts—easy sourdough dessert, meet decadent holiday delight!
Because these cookies hold their shape and texture well, they’re perfect for gifting, especially when stacked neatly in a jar or tied with a rustic ribbon. A tip I’ve learned for presentation is dusting them lightly with cocoa powder or adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for that little extra “wow” factor.
If you happen to have extra Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies hanging around (which is rare in my house, believe me), I love crumbling them over a bowl of Greek yogurt or adding pieces to a homemade chocolate mousse. It’s a fun twist that gives new life to leftovers and delights my family’s taste buds all over again.
This Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies recipe tends to be a showstopper whenever we have guests—friends are always asking for the recipe after their first bite! If you’re interested, my blog also offers some lovely double chocolate dessert ideas to keep your baking adventures fresh and exciting.
Your Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies Questions Answered
Q1: Can I use active or unfed sourdough starter instead of discard for these Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies?
Great question! I recommend using sourdough discard rather than your active starter here, because you don’t want to mess up your feeding schedule—and the discard has just the right mellow tang to complement the chocolate. Using active starter sometimes results in overly chewy or dense cookies. You can dig into more on handling sourdough discard cookies at Soft and Fudgy Sourdough Discard Chocolate Cookies – Make It ….
Q2: What if I don’t have cocoa powder—can I still make these cookies?
While the cocoa powder is essential for that rich double chocolate flavor, you could substitute with melted dark chocolate in the batter. It will shift the texture slightly and make the dough wetter, so reduce other liquids accordingly. But honestly, I prefer the ease and consistency of cocoa powder for this easy sourdough dessert.
Q3: How long can I store these Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies?
In an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for about 4-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration works but may change the texture slightly. Freezing baked cookies is also wonderful—you can thaw at room temp or pop them briefly in the microwave for a ‘just-baked’ feel.
Q4: My Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies came out flat—what did I do wrong?
This is a classic baking hiccup! It often happens if your dough wasn’t chilled enough or if your baking soda is expired. Also, measuring flour properly is key—too little flour can flatten the cookies. Don’t worry, I’ve had those batches too! Chilling the dough and checking your leavening agents can save the day.
Q5: Can these cookies be made vegan?
Yes, with a few swaps! Use a dairy-free butter alternative and substitute the egg with a flax egg or applesauce. Keep in mind, the texture might be a little different, but still delicious. It’s fun experimenting, and my readers have had success with these vegan tweaks.
Q6: What’s the difference between these Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies and regular chocolate chip sourdough cookies?
The main difference lies in the cocoa powder addition that gives these cookies a rich chocolate base, whereas standard chocolate chip sourdough cookies rely solely on chocolate chips for flavor. Both are delightful in their own right, but if you love indulgent chocolate flavor, this double chocolate cookies recipe is your jackpot.
Q7: Can I add nuts or dried fruit to these cookies?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch, and dried cherries give a tart contrast to the sweet chocolate. My family loves the nutty version, especially my husband who’s all about that extra texture. Just fold them in gently with the chocolate chips.
For more tips on sourdough baking or troubleshooting your cookies, take a peek at this Sourdough Discard Chocolate Cookies guide. It’s filled with great insights and inspiration.
My Final Thoughts on This Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies
This Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies recipe holds a special place in my heart—the way it turns plain sourdough discard into something my family eagerly gathers around to eat brings me so much joy. It feels like sharing a little homemade magic that’s both simple and satisfying, a testament to how sourdough baking can surprise you with unexpected delights.
My Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies Pro Tips:
– Always chill your dough; it makes the biggest difference in cookie texture and shape.
– Use quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips—good ingredients really shine here.
– Don’t skip the baking soda; it’s subtle but essential to that tender crumb.
Over the years, I’ve tried some fun variations with my family: adding espresso powder for a mocha twist, folding in orange zest for a citrus hint, and even sprinkling sea salt before baking. My kids love the classic with extra chips, while my husband swoons over the salted caramel drizzle version.
I encourage you to make this Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies recipe your own. Play with add-ins, adjust sweetness, and savor every moment baking it. Above all, I hope these cookies bring warm smiles and that sense of cozy connection that makes sourdough baking such a wonderful tradition.
If you want more deliciousness, don’t forget to visit my other family favorites like Double Chocolate Chip Cookies or these charming Heart-Shaped Chocolate Chip Cookies. Happy baking, my friend!
Double Chocolate Sourdough Cookies
Indulge in rich, fudgy double chocolate sourdough cookies that combine the tangy depth of sourdough starter with intense cocoa flavor for a unique twist on a classic treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup active sourdough starter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chunks
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and active sourdough starter until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and dark chocolate chunks evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until cookies are set around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For an extra decadent touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on the cookies just before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor.

