Sourdough Discard Brownies Fudgy

Name: Sourdough Discard Brownies Fudgy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup sourdough discard; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Creations Studio

I absolutely love experimenting with my sourdough discard, and these Sourdough Discard Brownies are one of my favorite creations. They embody a rich, fudgy texture that’s hard to resist while minimizing kitchen waste at the same time. Each bite is a delightful combination of chocolate decadence and a subtle tang that comes from the sourdough. It's a win-win for my cravings and my conscience, and I’m excited to share this unique recipe with you!

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-06T18:11:36.577Z

When I first started making brownies with sourdough discard, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it worked. The tanginess of the sourdough balances beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a unique depth of flavor. I also learned to adjust the sugar levels based on the tanginess of my discard, which adds an element of control to the sweetness of the final product.

One small tip I discovered is to keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different. I usually check the brownies at the 25-minute mark and do the toothpick test. If it comes out with moist crumbs, they’re ready! This ensures that you get that perfect fudgy texture without overbaking.

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with a subtle tang from sourdough
Ultra fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
An easy and eco-friendly way to use up sourdough discard

Sourdough Discard Magic

Utilizing sourdough discard in brownies not only reduces waste but also enhances the flavor profile. The acidity from the sourdough interacts beautifully with the chocolate, creating a depth that is both intriguing and satisfying. This tanginess complements the sweetness of the brownies, making each bite a delightful contrast. If you’re new to using sourdough discard, remember that it should be bubbly and active to yield the best results, so avoid using very old discard that might lack flavor.

The key to achieving the perfect fudgy texture lies in the balance of ingredients. The ratio of butter to flour and sugar is crucial. For these brownies, the melted butter adds moisture and richness, while the flour works to provide just enough structure without making the brownies cake-like. If you ever find your brownies overly dry, try reducing the flour slightly or adding an extra tablespoon of butter next time for an even fudgier outcome.

Baking Perfect Brownies

When it comes to baking brownies, the right pan can make all the difference. A 9x9 inch pan is ideal for achieving the desired thickness while allowing for even baking. Glass or metal pans work well, but remember that metal pans often provide a slightly crispier edge. If you prefer a softer edge, opt for glass, but be sure to lower the oven temperature by about 25°F to prevent over-baking.

Always keep an eye on the baking time. Start checking for doneness at the 25-minute mark. You want a toothpick inserted to come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. If you find that your brownies are puffing up too much, it might indicate that your oven is running hot, and you should consider adjusting the temperature slightly in future batches or investing in an oven thermometer for better accuracy.

Ingredients

Gather these pantry staples to create your delicious brownies!

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup sourdough discard
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your brownies!

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix wet ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sourdough discard, and granulated sugar. Mix well until smooth, then add in the eggs and vanilla extract, and blend until fully incorporated.

Combine dry ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir just until combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.

Cool and serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy your fudgy treats!

Let the brownies cool completely for the best texture before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgent treat, serve the brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Storage Tips

These fudgy brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to five days. To maintain their ultimate texture, place a slice of bread in the container; it helps keep the brownies soft due to the moisture absorption. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and then store them in a ziplock freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen brownies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer a warm brownie experience, you can pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to revive that freshly baked texture.

Potential Variations

One of the great things about this brownie recipe is its versatility. To switch things up, consider adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts with the fudgy center. You might also try incorporating different flavors such as espresso powder for a mocha twist or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor even further.

For a more indulgent brownie, consider swirling in cream cheese or adding a layer of caramel in the middle before baking. These variations not only add unique flavors but also elevate the usual brownie experience. Just be cautious of the baking time; additional ingredients may require a few extra minutes in the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

→ Is sourdough discard necessary for this recipe?

While sourdough discard adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or applesauce for a similar texture.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.