There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of baked goods wafting through the kitchen. When I first pulled this Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread from the oven, my home instantly transformed into a cozy café, with warm, sweet aromas inviting everyone inside. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional quick bread, blending the tangy depth of sourdough with the decadent richness of chocolate chips.
What I love most about this quick bread is its ease; it’s perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous dessert cravings. With just ten minutes of prep time, you’ll have a loaf baking away, filling your home with an irresistible fragrance that beckons friends and family to gather around. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up that sourdough starter sitting in your fridge, making this bread not only delicious but also resourceful.
Whether enjoyed toasted for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon snack, this Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread is bound to become your go-to recipe. Let’s dive in and create something delicious together!
Why is Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread a must-try?
Irresistible aroma: As it bakes, the sweet scent fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Effortless preparation: With just ten minutes of prep, you can have this delicious loaf in the oven without any fuss.
Versatile delight: Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, making it a hit at any gathering.
Unique twist: The tangy sourdough paired with rich chocolate chips offers a delightful flavor contrast you won’t forget!
Waste-not attitude: It’s an excellent way to use up leftover sourdough starter, reducing food waste while indulging your cravings.
Crowd-pleaser: Friends and family will flock to this scrumptious treat—it’s guaranteed to impress!
Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread Ingredients
• Ready to whip up a delicious loaf? Here’s everything you need!
For the Batter
- 1 cup white sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the tangy sourdough flavor.
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and a tender crumb for the bread.
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder – Ensures a beautiful rise and fluffy texture.
- ¾ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter – Keeps the bread moist and adds richness.
- 2 large eggs – Acts as a binder, creating a light and airy bread.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla (optional) – Adds a warm, aromatic note to the batter.
- ¼ cup milk – Helps combine the ingredients and adds tenderness.
- ¾ cup sourdough starter (unfed is fine) – Provides a unique, tangy flavor that elevates the quick bread.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – The star ingredient that brings a burst of sweetness in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (like turbinado or sparkling sugar) – Sprinkles on top for a delightful crunchy finish.
Enjoy making your Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread—it’s a treat that loves to be shared!
How to Make Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to grease an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray for easy removal.
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until they’re well combined and fluffy. This ensures an even distribution of ingredients.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the vegetable oil (or melted butter) and eggs to the dry mixture. Stir until smooth. If you’re including vanilla, mix it in now while gradually adding the milk for a silky batter.
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Mix in Sourdough: Pour in your sourdough starter and gently mix it in by hand. Be sure to scrape the bottom with a spatula, ensuring all ingredients incorporate beautifully.
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Fold in Chocolate Chips: Carefully fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. It’s important not to overmix, as this keeps the bread fluffy and tender.
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Prepare for Baking: Transfer the batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the coarse sugar evenly over the surface for a crunchy topping.
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Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Rotate the pan halfway through for an even bake.
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Cool Completely: After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Optional: Serve warm with a pat of butter for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread?
There’s nothing quite like a freshly baked loaf to bring joy to your table and the senses alive.
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Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries add a refreshing tart contrast to the sweet, rich bread, enhancing each bite. Think strawberries or blueberries—for a lovely touch, serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream.
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Greek Yogurt: A creamy side of Greek yogurt brings a satisfying tang that balances the sweetness of the bread, making for a well-rounded breakfast or snack. Add a drizzle of honey for an extra treat!
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Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter atop warm slices for a delightful combination of creamy richness and satisfying protein. The nuttiness adds a beautiful depth to the flavors while making it even more filling.
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Espresso or Coffee: Pair your quick bread with a bold espresso or a warm cup of coffee to create that cozy café vibe at home. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the chocolate beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a delightful dessert, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside. The creamy coldness meets warm slices for a contrast that is pure bliss.
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Honey Drizzle: A simple drizzle of honey transforms each slice into a sweeter, more indulgent treat. It’s the quickest way to elevate the experience, adding a floral note that sings with chocolate.
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Hot Chocolate: Embrace a cheeky treat by pairing your warm bread with a rich mug of hot chocolate. This decadent duo is perfect for a chilly day and transforms your snack into a delightful indulgence.
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Maple Syrup: A splash of warm maple syrup can be a delightful addition, providing a sweet glaze that takes each bite to a new level of comfort. It brings a lovely warmth that resonates with the flavors.
Storage Tips for Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread
Room Temperature: Store your chocolate chip sourdough quick bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like to keep it fresh a bit longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the quick bread in individual slices or as a whole loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature. Reheat in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds to bring back that warm, comforting aroma!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread
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Quality Ingredients: Use fresh baking powder for the best rise and fluffy texture in your quick bread, enhancing the overall flavor.
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Sourdough Starter Check: Ensure your sourdough starter isn’t overly sour; unfed or fed, it should have a pleasant aroma for the best tasting bread.
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Even Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding chocolate chips to keep the texture tender; stirring just until combined is key.
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Know Your Oven: Oven temperatures can vary; use a toothpick to check doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off to prevent overbaking.
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Storing Leftovers: Store your Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer freshness.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nuts or swap chocolate chips for different kinds of chocolate or dried fruits for a unique twist!
Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful bread to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a wonderful alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Dairy-Free: Swap the milk for almond or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative for a creamy, rich texture without the dairy.
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Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
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Fruit Fusion: Add 1 cup of mashed bananas or applesauce for a fruity twist and extra moisture to your quick bread.
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Spice It Up: A dash of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile, giving your bread warm, aromatic notes that delight every bite.
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Choco-Mint Delight: Incorporate a teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla for a festive, minty sensation that’s perfect for the holidays.
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Bourbon Kick: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the batter for a deeper flavor and a subtle warmth that makes this bread feel extra special.
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Double Chocolate: Swap in dark chocolate chips or use a mix of semi-sweet and white chocolate chips for a luscious, rich chocolate experience.
With these variations, your Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread will always feel fresh and exciting!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread loaves are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days before baking. Additionally, you can combine the wet ingredients (oil, eggs, vanilla, and milk) and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, add the sourdough starter and chocolate chips, then proceed with the baking instructions. This method not only saves you time but ensures your bread remains just as delicious and fresh-baked as if you made it all at once! Enjoy the ease of a cozy kitchen without the last-minute rush.
Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best sourdough starter for my bread?
Absolutely! The best sourdough starter should have a pleasant aroma and good bubbles when stirred. Whether fed or unfed, it should not smell overly sour. If you’re using unfed starter, just make sure it’s not too old (within a week is ideal) to get the best flavor in your Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread.
What is the best way to store leftover Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread?
Very! To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, just be sure to wrap it well in plastic to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread? What’s the process?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to preserve this delightful bread. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it whole or cut it into individual slices. This way, it can last for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, then reheat in the toaster or microwave for a warm treat.
My quick bread turned out dense; what went wrong?
Oh no! A dense loaf can occur if the batter is overmixed once you add the chocolate chips. This releases too much gluten, weighing the bread down. Ensure you’re folding in the chocolate chips gently and only until just combined. Also, check that your baking powder is fresh; expired baking powder won’t provide the necessary rise, leading to a denser loaf.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread is naturally nut-free, making it a safe option for those with nut allergies. However, always ensure that your chocolate chips are allergen-free and check for any cross-contamination warnings. If you’re unsure, you can also make it with dairy-free chocolate chips if you have dairy allergies!
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
Absolutely! While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can try substituting it with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. Just keep in mind that it may alter the crumb and texture slightly, so you might need to adjust the liquid ingredients to achieve the right consistency.
Decadent Chocolate Chip Sourdough Quick Bread Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add vegetable oil (or melted butter) and eggs to the dry mixture and stir until smooth.
- Mix in vanilla and gradually add milk to create a silky batter.
- Pour in the sourdough starter and gently mix by hand, scraping the bottom.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips without overmixing.
- Transfer the batter into the greased pan, smooth the top, and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.