Decadent Chocolate Sourdough Discard Brownies

Name: Decadent Chocolate Sourdough Discard Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup sourdough discard; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Flour & Frosting Recipes

I absolutely love these Decadent Chocolate Sourdough Discard Brownies! They are a delightful way to utilize sourdough discard, transforming waste into something deliciously indulgent. The rich chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with the slight tang from the sourdough, creating a unique taste experience. Every time I bake these brownies, I'm amazed at how fudgy and moist they turn out, making them perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth. Trust me, this recipe will become a favorite in my kitchen, and I can't wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-27T09:41:27.619Z

When I first set out to create brownies using sourdough discard, I was curious to see how the flavors would meld. I experimented with different ratios of chocolate and sugar, eventually landing on the perfect balance that highlighted the rich chocolate while still allowing the sourdough to shine through. The result? Incredibly fudgy brownies that everyone raved about!

One tip I discovered while making these is to not overmix the batter. Just combine the ingredients until they are incorporated for that irresistible dense texture. These brownies are always a hit at gatherings, and I love serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with a slight tang from the sourdough
Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for using up sourdough discard in a delicious way

The Role of Sourdough Discard

Using sourdough discard in these brownies not only reduces food waste but also enriches the flavor profile. The slight tang from the sourdough highlights the rich chocolate, creating a complex and enjoyable taste that isn't found in regular brownies. Additionally, the acidity of the sourdough interacts with the cocoa, enhancing the chocolate's depth and making the brownies even more indulgent.

If you're new to incorporating sourdough discard into your baking, start by measuring out exactly one cup, as too much can lead to an overly dense or tangy brownie. Conversely, if you have less than a cup, you can supplement the missing amount with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt to maintain texture without losing the chocolatey goodness.

Texture Tips for Perfect Brownies

The fudgy texture of these brownies is achieved by not overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Stir gently until just combined to avoid developing too much gluten, which can result in a cakey texture. Look for the batter to be thick and slightly glossy before transferring it to the pan for baking.

When baking, keep an eye on the time; ovens can vary. It's ideal to check for doneness a few minutes early. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This sweet spot is crucial for maintaining that desired fudgy consistency.

Serving and Storing Brownies

These brownies are not just delicious when fresh; they also hold up well for a few days after baking. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, or refrigerate for even longer shelf life. If you want to freeze them, slice the brownies and layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be thawed at room temperature or warmed in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

Serving these brownies offers endless possibilities. You can pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor kick. Experimenting with toppings can elevate the experience, making each serving a unique treat.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup sourdough discard
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

With these ingredients ready, you're all set to make these delicious brownies!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Melt Butter and Combine Ingredients

In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from heat and whisk in the sugar until well combined. Add the sourdough discard, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips if desired.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these mouthwatering brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra chocolatey flavor, try adding a mix of dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty combo.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re short on butter, you can substitute with an equal amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil. This swap might subtly alter the flavor but will keep the texture rich and moist. For those looking for a healthier option, unsweetened applesauce can replace the sugar in the recipe to create a lower-sugar variant, though it may slightly affect the sweetness and density of the brownies.

For a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix. Make sure the baking powder you use is also gluten-free, if necessary, to avoid any cross-contamination issues.

Troubleshooting Brownies

If your brownies turn out too dry, there may have been too much mixing, or they could have overbaked. Ensure that when you mix the dry ingredients into the wet, just blend enough to incorporate everything without beating it excessively. Additionally, keep an eye on baking time; every oven is different, so checking a few minutes earlier than suggested can save your brownies from a dry fate.

Conversely, if your brownies are too gooey even after the suggested baking time, they may need more time in the oven. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes while closely monitoring to prevent burning. A standard toothpick test should guide you; remember that it’s okay if the toothpick has a few moist crumbs but should not be wet.

Flavor Variations

To customize these brownies, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. Chocolate or peanut butter swirls can also elevate the brownies to a new level—just dollop the swirls on top of the batter and use a knife to create a marbled effect before baking.

If you’re a fan of spice, a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper can add warmth and depth to your brownies. These spices pair wonderfully with chocolate, offering a unique twist that keeps the flavor exciting and unexpected each time you bake them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if necessary, though it may change the texture slightly.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Allow the brownies to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for sourdough discard?

You can replace sourdough discard with applesauce or plain yogurt for a similar moist texture, but it will alter the flavor.