These Sourdough Brownies are incredibly fudgy, rich, and packed with deep chocolate flavor! Made with discarded sourdough starter, they have a slightly tangy depth that enhances the chocolate and makes for a chewy, irresistible texture.
Whether you’re looking to use up leftover sourdough discard or simply want to try a unique twist on classic brownies, this recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely decadent!
Ingredients for Sourdough Brownies
For the Brownie Batter:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120g) sourdough discard (unfed or active)
- ½ cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (90g) dark chocolate chips or chunks
Optional Toppings:
- ¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Spatula
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt Butter & Mix Sugars
- In a saucepan or microwave, melt butter until smooth.
- Stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar, whisking until dissolved.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Incorporate Eggs & Sourdough Starter
- Whisk in eggs, one at a time, until fully combined.
- Stir in sourdough discard, mixing until smooth.
4. Add Dry Ingredients
- Sift in cocoa powder, salt, baking powder, and flour.
- Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula—don’t overmix!
5. Fold in Chocolate Chips & Bake
- Stir in chocolate chips or chunks.
- Pour batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt or chopped nuts (if using).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the center is just set but still slightly gooey.
6. Cool & Serve
- Let brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm for an extra fudgy texture, or chill for cleaner slices!
Expert Tips for the Best Sourdough Brownies
Use unfed sourdough discard – Adds a subtle tang and extra chewiness.
Don’t overmix – Keeps the brownies dense and fudgy.
Let them cool completely before slicing – Helps them set for perfect squares.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using too much flour – Stick to the recipe for a fudgy texture.
Overbaking – Brownies should be slightly underdone in the center.
Skipping the salt – A pinch of salt enhances the chocolate flavor!
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel for extra indulgence.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for a rich dessert.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 7 days for a firmer texture.
Reheating:
- Microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften and warm.
- Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Freezing:
- Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make it extra chocolatey – Add an extra ¼ cup of chocolate chips.
- Use coconut sugar – For a refined sugar-free version.
- Try gluten-free flour – Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
What to Serve with Sourdough Brownies
- Fresh berries or whipped cream
- A warm cup of coffee or espresso
- Nut butter drizzle for extra richness
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes! The texture may be slightly lighter, but it will still be delicious.
Why add sourdough discard to brownies?
It enhances the texture, making them chewier and fudgier, while adding a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
Can I make these brownies dairy-free?
Yes! Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter, and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Conclusion
These Sourdough Brownies are rich, fudgy, and deeply chocolatey, with the perfect chewy texture from the sourdough discard. Whether you’re using up extra starter or just love unique brownie recipes, this is a must-try dessert!
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious sourdough recipes!
Calories Per Serving
Approximate Calories: 220 kcal per brownie (based on 12 servings).
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 12
PrintSourdough Brownies – Fudgy, Rich & Perfectly Chewy!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
These sourdough brownies are rich, fudgy, and packed with deep chocolate flavor! A great way to use up sourdough discard in a delicious dessert.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Batter:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120g) sourdough discard (unfed or active)
- ½ cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (90g) dark chocolate chips or chunks
Optional Toppings:
- ¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt Butter & Mix Sugars
- In a saucepan or microwave, melt butter until smooth.
- Stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar, whisking until dissolved.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Incorporate Eggs & Sourdough Starter
- Whisk in eggs, one at a time, until fully combined.
- Stir in sourdough discard, mixing until smooth.
4. Add Dry Ingredients
- Sift in cocoa powder, salt, baking powder, and flour.
- Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula—don’t overmix!
5. Fold in Chocolate Chips & Bake
- Stir in chocolate chips or chunks.
- Pour batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt or chopped nuts (if using).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the center is just set but still slightly gooey.
6. Cool & Serve
- Let brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm for an extra fudgy texture, or chill for cleaner slices!
Notes
✔ Use unfed sourdough discard – Adds a subtle tang and extra chewiness.
✔ Don’t overmix – Keeps the brownies dense and fudgy.
✔ Let them cool completely before slicing – Helps them set for perfect squares.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: DESSERT
- Cuisine: AMERICAN
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 220