In the world of desserts and baking, there's always something new and exciting to discover. One such hidden gem is the use of sourdough discard in oatmeal cookies. Sourdough discard, often considered a by - product of the sourdough baking process, can be transformed into a delicious treat with the right recipe.
Let's start by understanding what sourdough discard is. When you're maintaining a sourdough starter, you need to feed it regularly. As a result, you end up with an excess amount of the starter, which is the sourdough discard. Instead of throwing it away, we can put it to good use in our oatmeal cookies.
The first step in making these oatmeal cookies is to gather your ingredients. You'll need your sourdough discard, of course. Along with that, you'll require rolled oats, which are the heart of the oatmeal cookies. The oats give the cookies a lovely chewy texture. You can choose between old - fashioned rolled oats or quick - cooking oats, depending on your preference. Old - fashioned oats will result in a more rustic and chewy cookie, while quick - cooking oats will make the cookies a bit softer.
Next, you'll need some dried fruit. This is where you can get creative. You can use raisins, which are a classic choice for oatmeal cookies. Their sweet and slightly tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the oats and the sourdough. But don't limit yourself to raisins. You could also use dried cranberries, which add a tart and vibrant flavor. Or perhaps chopped apricots for a sweet and fruity twist. The dried fruit not only adds flavor but also a nice texture to the cookies.
For the wet ingredients, you'll need some butter. Butter gives the cookies a rich and buttery flavor. You can use either salted or unsalted butter, depending on your taste. If you use salted butter, you may want to reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe. Along with butter, you'll need some eggs. Eggs act as a binder, holding all the ingredients together and helping the cookies to hold their shape.
Now, let's talk about the dry ingredients. In addition to the oats and the dried fruit, you'll need some flour. All - purpose flour is a good choice as it provides a good structure for the cookies. You'll also need some baking soda. Baking soda helps the cookies to rise and gives them a light and fluffy texture. A bit of salt is also essential to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
To start the baking process, preheat your oven to the appropriate temperature. Usually, a temperature of around 375°F (190°C) works well for oatmeal cookies. While the oven is preheating, you can start preparing the dough. First, cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl. You can use an electric mixer for this step to make it easier. Once the butter and sugar are well - combined, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Next, add the sourdough discard to the bowl. Mix it in thoroughly. The sourdough discard will add a unique tangy flavor to the cookies. Then, gradually add the dry ingredients, including the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to over - mix, as this can result in tough cookies.
After that, fold in the rolled oats and the dried fruit. Make sure the oats and fruit are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Once the dough is ready, use a cookie scoop or a spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Leave some space between the cookies, as they will spread out during baking.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 - 12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. Once the cookies are done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These sourdough discard oatmeal cookies are not only delicious but also a great way to reduce waste. You're taking something that would otherwise be thrown away and turning it into a wonderful dessert. They're perfect for a snack on a lazy afternoon, or you can share them with friends and family. You can even experiment with different types of dried fruit or add some nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for an extra crunch. So, the next time you have some sourdough discard on hand, don't hesitate to try this amazing oatmeal cookie recipe.
In conclusion, the combination of sourdough discard, oats, and dried fruit in these cookies creates a unique and flavorful dessert. The process of making them is relatively simple, and the end result is well worth the effort. Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, these oatmeal cookies are a great addition to your baking repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start baking these delicious sourdough discard oatmeal cookies today!
