Air fryer sourdough sugar cookies were one of those experiments I wasn’t sure would work, my first batch spread too much and lost that classic soft center. I wanted that slight tang from sourdough with a chewy middle and lightly crisp edges. After testing this three ways, I discovered that chilling the dough and balancing the starter made all the difference. Then I cracked the code by lowering the temperature slightly. I finally landed on a method that gives soft, flavorful cookies with just the right texture every time.
Air Fryer Sourdough Sugar Cookies – Soft & Chewy in 10 Minutes
Soft and chewy sugar cookies with a subtle sourdough tang, made quickly in the air fryer with perfectly crisp edges.
Equipment
- Air Fryer (6-quart recommended)
- Mixing bowls
- parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sourdough starter discard or active
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add sourdough starter and mix until combined.
- Mix in egg yolk and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture.
- Chill dough for 10–15 minutes.
- Scoop dough into small balls.
- Line air fryer basket with parchment paper.
- Place cookie dough with space between each.
- Preheat air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- Air fry for 7–8 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Check doneness—edges set, centers slightly soft.
- Remove and let cool for 5 minutes to firm up.
Notes
- Air fryer models vary—check at 6 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading.
- Use discard starter for a mild tang flavor.
- Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if needed.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 minutes for freshness.
Nutrition
Calories: 140kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 110mgPotassium: 35mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 6IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg
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CONCLUSION
These air fryer sourdough sugar cookies quickly became one of my favorite ways to use extra starter. Once I figured out the balance and chill time, they came out soft, slightly tangy, and perfectly golden every single time.