Sourdough Discard Brownies Fudgy Style

Name: Sourdough Discard Brownies Fudgy Style
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 4 large eggs; 1 cup sourdough discard; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love experimenting with leftover ingredients, and making Sourdough Discard Brownies has become one of my favorite kitchen adventures. The combination of sourdough discard with rich chocolate creates a unique flavor profile that’s utterly irresistible. These fudgy brownies are not just a delicious way to minimize waste— they’re also incredibly easy to whip up. Trust me, once you try these brownies, you'll be hooked on the delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making it hard to resist reaching for another piece!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:16:15.850Z

When I first thought about using sourdough discard in brownies, I was skeptical. I wondered if the sourness would overpower the sweetness of chocolate. However, the result was a perfectly balanced treat—something I was so pleased to discover. Plus, using discard means reducing waste, and every moment spent in the kitchen feels worthwhile.

My favorite tip when baking these brownies is to let the batter rest for about 10 minutes before putting it in the oven. This allows the ingredients to meld beautifully and enhances the fudgy texture. Pairing the brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes them to the next level!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Incredible fudgy texture that suits any chocolate lover
Utilizes sourdough discard, reducing kitchen waste
Perfectly balanced flavor with a hint of sourness
Quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute treats

      

Understanding Sourdough Discard

Sourdough discard is the leftover starter that typically gets thrown away during the feeding process. Instead of discarding it, using it in recipes like these brownies adds moisture and a slight tang, resulting in a unique flavor profile. The acidity from the sourdough also balances the sweetness of the sugar, creating a more complex taste. Utilizing this ingredient not only enhances your baked goods but also makes you a more sustainable baker by minimizing waste.

When incorporating sourdough discard, it's essential to give it a good stir before measuring. This ensures that any separated flour or liquid is evenly distributed. If your discard has been sitting in the fridge for a while, make sure it’s at room temperature for better mixing with the other ingredients. A well-prepared sourdough discard is key to achieving a fudgy texture in these brownies.

Achieving Fudgy Perfection

The key to these brownies' incredible fudginess is the ratio of fat to flour and the baking time. Using a full cup of butter ensures a rich and moist texture, while the careful folding of flour prevents overmixing, which can lead to a cakey consistency. For optimal results, gently mix until you see just a few streaks of flour; this helps maintain that gooey center we all love.

Baking these brownies for the right amount of time is crucial to attaining the perfect fudgy texture. Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes and check for doneness. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not clean. If you prefer even gooier brownies, you can reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes—just keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

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

Be sure to measure your ingredients carefully for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Melt the Butter

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Combine Eggs and Sourdough Discard

Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the sourdough discard. Mix until well combined.

Add Flour

Gently fold in the flour until just combined. If using, add the chocolate chips at this stage.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and serve.

These brownies are best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly warmed.

Pro Tips

To enhance the chocolate flavor, try adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter. It elevates the richness without imparting a strong coffee flavor.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, which is ideal for keeping that fudgy texture intact. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to three months in the freezer and can be thawed quickly at room temperature or warmed in a microwave for a few seconds before serving.

When it comes to serving these brownies, they are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate them further. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the chocolatey richness. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance or drizzle with a homemade chocolate ganache for added indulgence.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with these brownies! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. Alternatively, swirl in some peanut butter or caramel before baking for a delightful surprise in every bite. If you're a fan of peppermint, a few drops of peppermint extract paired with chocolate chips can transform these brownies into a festive treat.

If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider swapping half of the sugar for applesauce or using a sugar substitute like coconut sugar. This can slightly alter the texture but will still yield delicious results. You can also replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, making these brownies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, but it may slightly alter the texture.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

→ What can I substitute for sourdough discard?

You may replace sourdough discard with applesauce or yogurt, though the flavor will change slightly.