Sourdough Discard Brownies With Cocoa

Name: Sourdough Discard Brownies With Cocoa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Moments Studio

I love finding creative ways to use my sourdough discard, and these brownies are one of my favorite treats! They're rich, fudgy, and the perfect way to transform what would otherwise go to waste into something delicious. The subtle tang from the sourdough enhances the chocolate flavor, making each bite incredibly indulgent. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, which means you can satisfy your chocolate cravings in no time. Trust me, these brownies will become your new go-to dessert for any occasion!

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:37:13.727Z

Creating these brownies using sourdough discard was an experiment that turned into a delicious success! The interplay of chocolate and sourdough might sound unconventional, but the result is a rich flavor that takes these fudgy delights to a whole new level. I loved watching my family devour them, often asking for seconds before I even had a chance to reflect on the baking process.

One tip I found invaluable was to let the brownies cool completely before slicing; this allows them to firm up and makes cutting easier while creating those perfect, clean edges for presentation. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
The delightful chocolateiness paired with a tangy sourdough twist
Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
A creative way to use sourdough discard without wasting

Understanding the Role of Sourdough Discard

Sourdough discard plays a unique role in these brownies by adding a subtle tang that perfectly complements the richness of the chocolate. Unlike regular brownies, the sourdough not only contributes moisture but also elevates the overall flavor profile, creating a tantalizing contrast. Sourdough discard should ideally be unfed for this recipe, as it retains a bit of its natural yeast, which can enhance the texture.

As the brownies bake, the sourdough’s acidity interacts with the cocoa powder, resulting in a deeper chocolate flavor. You might notice the distinction more when you use a well-fermented discard, giving your brownies a sophisticated twist that impresses even chocolate purists.

Tips for Perfect Brownies

To achieve that classic fudgy texture, it’s crucial not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can incorporate extra air, leading to a cake-like consistency instead of the desired dense and gooey outcome. Stir just until everything is combined, and if you see a few flour streaks, that’s perfectly fine—your brownies will still come out great!

Another tip is to let your brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This waiting period allows them to set properly and makes cutting them into squares much easier. For an added touch, you can sprinkle sea salt over the top after baking for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need before starting to ensure a smooth baking process.

Ingredients

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

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

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to achieve perfectly baked brownies.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, and fold them gently into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in Chocolate Chips

Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed, then pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Enjoy your brownies warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of unsalted butter, you can substitute it with an equal amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil. Just keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the flavor slightly, providing a more neutral taste compared to butter. Additionally, if you're trying to reduce sugar, consider replacing half of the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup, adjusting the liquid content slightly to maintain the batter's consistency.

For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just be sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum, as it helps to emulate the structure provided by regular flour, resulting in a similar texture without sacrificing quality.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, for longer storage, consider freezing them. To freeze, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll remain fresh for up to 3 months! When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that fudgy texture.

For serving, you can take these brownies up a notch by drizzling them with caramel sauce or pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm brownie with the cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that's perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fed sourdough starter instead of discard?

Using fed sourdough will alter the taste slightly, but it can still work. Just be mindful of the moisture content.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for cocoa powder?

You can use carob powder as a substitute, but the taste will be different. Make sure to adjust the sweetness as needed.