Irresistible Sourdough Oatmeal Cookies (Chewy & Flavor-Packed!)
One chilly Sunday morning, I found myself staring at a jar of leftover sourdough starter, contemplating its fate. I had just baked a golden, crusty loaf, and the lingering warmth and aroma filled my kitchen.
Throwing out perfectly good starter felt wasteful, so I started brainstorming ways to use it. Then I saw a half-empty container of rolled oats sitting on my counter.
Oatmeal cookies had always been a childhood favorite, and the idea of adding sourdough intrigued me.
The result? A batch of irresistibly chewy, slightly tangy oatmeal cookies that instantly transported me back to afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, where a plate of freshly baked treats was always waiting.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Chewy with a delightful tang: The sourdough starter adds depth and a unique hint of acidity.
- Perfect for using up discard: No waste—just delicious cookies!
- Simple, pantry-staple ingredients: No need for fancy supplies.
- Customizable: Mix in chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts to make them your own.
- Hearty and satisfying: Oats add wholesome texture and fiber.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 cup sourdough starter (active or discard)
- 1 cup rolled oats (toast for 5 min for extra flavor)
- ½ cup brown sugar (swap ¼ cup for molasses or maple syrup for more depth!)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (adds extra chewiness)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free version)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for a softer center)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup nuts or dried fruit (optional but delicious!)
Prep & Cook Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 12-15 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toast oats (optional but recommended): Spread oats on a baking sheet and toast for 5 minutes until lightly golden.
- Cream butter and sugars: Beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Mix wet ingredients: Add the egg, vanilla, and sourdough starter. Mix until fully combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt.
- Fold in dry ingredients: Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Add oats and mix-ins: Gently fold in oats and any optional mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries.
- Rest the dough (optional but highly recommended): Cover and let the dough sit for 30-60 minutes (improves texture & flavor!).
- Scoop and bake: Drop tablespoon-sized scoops onto the baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are golden brown and centers look just set.
- Cool for 5 minutes on the sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.
Pro Tips for the Best Sourdough Oatmeal Cookies
- Chill the dough: For softer, chewier cookies, let the dough rest for 15-30 minutes before baking.
- Don’t overbake: They will continue firming up as they cool.
- Sourdough discard texture: Thicker discard leads to denser cookies, while a more liquid starter results in a cakier bite.
- Boost flavor: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the warmth of the oats. You may also sprinkle with a little rock salt for a gourmet touch!
- Storage tip: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Cookie |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Protein | 2g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, swap in a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Bake them first, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What if I don’t have oats?
You can use almond flour instead, but the texture and flavor will be different.
Enjoy Every Bite!
These sourdough oatmeal cookies are the perfect blend of nostalgia and creativity, making for a cozy treat with just the right balance of chewiness and tang.
Whether you enjoy them warm with a cup of tea or as an after-dinner snack, they promise comfort with each bite!
