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

Highlighted under: Pastry Pleasures

I absolutely love turning my sourdough discard into delicious treats, and these fudgy brownies are no exception. The beauty of using sourdough discard is that it adds depth and character to the brownies, creating a rich flavor that you won’t be able to resist. When I first made these, I was blown away by how perfectly fudgy they turned out. If you're looking for a way to minimize waste while indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:07:14.461Z

When I first ventured into sourdough baking, I was always left with excess discard and wasn't sure what to do with it. After several attempts, I discovered the magic of brownies. The addition of sourdough discard not only utilizes that extra mixture but also enhances the brownies' texture, making them incredibly fudgy. Each batch brings a little bit of nostalgia, and every bite reminds me of my sourdough journey.

To achieve that perfect fudginess, I recommend underbaking the brownies slightly. This technique keeps them gooey and moist in the center. I usually check them a few minutes before the timer goes off, and if a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, they're ready. Trust me on this one – you’ll love the results!

Why You Will Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor enhanced by sourdough depth
Fudgy texture that satisfies your cravings
Great way to utilize sourdough discard creatively

The Role of Sourdough Discard

Using sourdough discard in these brownies not only minimizes waste, but it also adds a unique tang that beautifully complements the chocolate. The slightly fermented nature of the discard can enhance the overall flavor profile, creating a depth that traditional brownies lack. This ingredient provides a subtle but noticeable character to the brownies, making each bite an exceptional experience.

The acidity in the sourdough discard also interacts with the baking soda and cocoa powder, providing a rich balance that may help to achieve that desired fudgy texture. You want to ensure the discard is active and bubbly for optimal results; it should still have some leavening power to complement the sugars and chocolate, creating a perfect rise.

Perfecting the Fudgy Texture

Achieving a fudgy texture requires careful attention to mixing and baking times. After incorporating the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can introduce too much air, leading to cakier brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture. A few lumps are perfectly acceptable; they’ll just disappear in the oven.

For baking, keep an eye on the time; the key sign that your brownies are done is when the edges look set and the center still has a slight jiggle. This ensures that the brownies will finish cooking with the residual heat, resulting in a moisture-rich texture that melts in your mouth. If you prefer extra fudginess, reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sourdough discard, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently mix together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in Chocolate Chips

If you're using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter now.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing them into squares. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate richness.

Smooth and Rich Flavor

One of the standout features of these brownies is their smooth, rich flavor. The combination of unsweetened cocoa powder and both granulated and brown sugars works together to create a balance between sweetness and deep chocolate notes. Brown sugar, with its molasses undertones, adds a complexity that enhances the overall taste experience; don’t skip this ingredient for the best results.

Should you wish to amp up the chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate cocoa powder instead of the standard variety. This switch will enrich the brownies further, resulting in a more decadent treat that truly satisfies chocolate cravings.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize these brownies by incorporating nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch. If you’re a fan of flavored chocolate, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder or a splash of your favorite liqueur to deepen the flavor profile even more. Remember, just a small amount can make a significant difference.

For a lighter variation, substitute half of the granulated sugar with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas. This not only reduces sugar but also adds moisture and a hint of natural sweetness, making the brownies a bit more health-conscious while still retaining their fudgy charm.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes, you can use active sourdough starter, but you may need to adjust the sugar since starter can be more acidic.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. They can last up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs if I’m vegan?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute. One egg can be replaced with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water.