Decadent Sourdough Brownies for Rich, Fudgy Bliss!
The first time I experimented with adding sourdough starter to brownies, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would the tang overpower the chocolate? Would the texture be off?
Instead, I discovered a game-changing twist—brownies with an unbelievably moist, fudgy texture and a complex depth of flavor unlike any I had ever tasted.
Now, this is my go-to recipe for a rich, chocolatey indulgence that makes use of leftover starter while delivering a spectacular dessert.
These sourdough brownies strike the perfect balance between sweet and slightly tangy, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience in every bite.
Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast looking to minimize waste or simply a chocolate lover searching for the perfect brownie recipe, this one will not disappoint!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly fudgy: The sourdough starter adds a chewy, moist texture.
- Zero waste: Great for using up leftover sourdough discard.
- Deep flavor: The slight tang enhances the richness of the chocolate.
- Simple ingredients: No need for fancy or hard-to-find ingredients.
- Customizable: Easily adjust sweetness, mix-ins, or flours.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted, or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- ½ cup dark chocolate (melted, for extra richness)
- ¾ cup brown sugar (or substitute ½ cup with maple syrup for more depth)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sourdough starter (discard or active)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed for smoother flavor)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (reducing flour improves fudginess)
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder (optional, but enhances chocolate flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra indulgence)
Prep & Cook Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25-30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40-45 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well.
- Melt and mix: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and dark chocolate together. Stir in both sugars (or maple syrup) until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Create the crinkle top: In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar for 2-3 minutes until pale and slightly frothy. This step is key for that glossy, crackly crust!
- Combine wet ingredients: Stir in the sourdough starter and vanilla extract, then mix in the melted chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
- Sift and fold dry ingredients: Sift together cocoa powder, flour, espresso powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the batter until just combined—do not overmix!
- Add chocolate chips: Fold in the chocolate chips for extra gooeyness.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs (not completely clean).
- Cool and serve: Let the brownies cool completely before slicing to maintain their fudgy texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Brownies
- Use room-temperature ingredients: This helps your batter come together smoothly.
- Don’t overmix: Overworking the batter can lead to tough brownies.
- Choose the right cocoa powder: Dutch-processed cocoa gives a milder flavor, while natural cocoa is more intense.
- Let them cool: Warm brownies will be gooier, while cooling fully makes for neater slices.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt: A touch of salt enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 15g |
| Protein | 3g |
FAQs About Sourdough Brownies
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
How should I store these brownies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I make these brownies dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative.
Enjoy Every Bite!
These sourdough brownies bring together rich, intense chocolate and a slight tang that elevates them beyond your typical brownies.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a comforting treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Happy baking!
