Chewy Brownies With Sourdough Discard

Name: Chewy Brownies With Sourdough Discard
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
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: Oven Kitchen

I discovered a fantastic way to repurpose my sourdough discard while satisfying my sweet tooth: these chewy brownies! The rich, fudgy texture paired with just a hint of tang from the sourdough creates a delightful balance that I can't get enough of. With only a handful of ingredients, these brownies are quick and simple to whip up, making them perfect for any chocolate craving. Trust me, once you try these, you'll never want to toss out that sourdough discard again!

Created by

Winifred Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:55:34.675Z

When I first tried incorporating sourdough discard into my brownies, I was skeptical about how the taste would turn out. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors melded together. The addition of sourdough adds depth and richness that standard brownies just can't compete with. I learned that using high-quality chocolate and ingredients makes all the difference in achieving the perfect fudgy texture.

Another tip I picked up along the way is to let the brownies cool completely before cutting them into squares. This patience pays off because it helps them set and develop that irresistible chewiness. My friends and family were amazed at how delicious these brownies turned out, and they didn't even know they were made with sourdough discard!

Why You Will Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor with a subtle tang from the sourdough
Intensely chewy texture that keeps you coming back for more
Perfect way to utilize sourdough discard and reduce waste

Ingredient Spotlight: Sourdough Discard

Using sourdough discard not only reduces waste but also adds a unique flavor profile to these brownies. The lactic acid present in sourdough contributes a slight tanginess, which enhances the rich chocolate taste. This balance is particularly important because it elevates the overall complexity of the flavor without overpowering the sweetness. If you're concerned about the sourness, know that the sugar and other ingredients will harmonize beautifully to create a decadent treat.

It's essential to use an active and bubbly sourdough discard for the best results. If your discard has been stored in the refrigerator, allow it to come to room temperature and give it a gentle stir before measuring. This can help ensure that the active cultures are incorporated evenly into your brownie batter, leading to a more uniform texture and flavor.

Baking Tips for Chewy Brownies

Achieving the perfect chewy texture requires careful attention during the mixing process. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined; overmixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in cakey brownies. You want to see a few floury streaks in the batter before folding in any chocolate chips. This technique will guarantee that they remain dense and satisfying.

Another essential factor is baking time. Keep an eye on your brownies; the baking period can vary based on your oven and the type of pan used. If you're using a dark-colored pan, they may bake slightly faster than in a glass or metal pan. For perfect brownies, check for doneness a few minutes before the 25-minute mark, aiming for a toothpick that comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, rather than clean.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

For optimal enjoyment, let your brownies cool completely in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting them into squares. If you're not serving them right away, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag; they can last up to three months. Defrost at room temperature before indulging!

Feel free to get creative with your brownies. You can swap the chocolate chips for other mix-ins like walnuts, peanut butter chips, or even a swirl of caramel. If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, try substituting some of the flour with more cocoa powder, keeping the overall dry ingredient ratio in check. These variations not only keep the recipe exciting but also allow you to cater to different preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before starting:

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 all ingredients are at room temperature for best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve delicious 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.

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly mixed.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips, if using, for an extra chocolatey treat.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy!

Remember, the brownies will continue to set as they cool.

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider sprinkling some chopped nuts into the batter before baking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies turn out too dry, it might be a result of overbaking or using too much flour. Be precise with your measurements—scoop and level the flour instead of packing it into the measuring cup. If your brownies are underbaked, they may still appear slightly shiny in the center but will firm up as they cool—resist the urge to bake them longer than the recommended time.

Another common issue is when brownies don’t have that desired chewy texture. This can stem from mixing the batter too vigorously or incorporating too much air. Always mix gently when bringing the batter together, and remember, it's okay to leave a few lumps!

Customization Ideas

One of the beauties of this brownie recipe is its flexibility. For a fun twist, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or espresso powder, which can deepen the chocolate flavor without adding additional sweetness. Additionally, you can enhance the tanginess by using buttermilk or yogurt in place of the sourdough discard, if you find yourself without any on hand.

Try adding a layer of ganache or a sprinkling of sea salt on top of the brownies after baking to elevate them even further. These small adjustments can transform your brownies into a gourmet treat that’s perfect for special occasions or just a regular sweet craving.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're entertaining or looking to make a larger batch, this recipe scales up beautifully. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan, such as a 9x13-inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may need to be extended by five to ten minutes. However, always base your timing on visual cues rather than a strict timer to ensure perfect results.

For smaller gatherings or individual treats, consider using a muffin tin to make brownie bites. Just adjust the baking time to around 15-18 minutes, and watch for that same toothpick test. This allows for easy serving and is a fun way to present your chewy brownies in individual portions!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may affect the texture slightly, making them a bit denser.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! These brownies freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute if you're looking for a dairy-free option.

→ How do I know when the brownies are done?

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.