Fudgy Sourdough Discard Brownies

Name: Fudgy Sourdough Discard Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup sourdough discard; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Baked Bliss

I absolutely love baking with sourdough discard, and these fudgy brownies are one of my favorite ways to use it. The rich chocolate flavor combined with the slight tang from the sourdough creates a depth that’s hard to resist. Baking these brownies is simple and rewarding, with a quick prep time and a two-step process that yields delicious results. Perfect for satisfying my chocolate cravings or sharing with friends, these brownies are always a hit at gatherings.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:04:24.907Z

When I first experimented with using sourdough discard in sweet recipes, I wasn't sure what to expect. To my surprise, the brownies turned out better than I ever imagined! The slight tang from the sourdough perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate. I found that using high-quality cocoa powder really elevates the flavor, ensuring a rich dessert that satisfies every chocolate lover's dream.

One little detail that transformed these brownies was adding a pinch of sea salt before baking. This small step enhances the overall flavor and provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness. Trust me, it’s worth that extra sprinkle! Whenever I make these, they disappear in no time, leaving everyone craving more.

Why You Will Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor balanced by the tang of sourdough
Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect way to use up sourdough discard

The Role of Sourdough Discard

Using sourdough discard in these brownies not only reduces waste but also imparts a unique flavor profile. The natural fermentation can elevate the chocolate's richness. It provides a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the sugar, creating a more complex flavor that is both satisfying and intriguing. If you're new to using discard, don't worry—its unique taste will blend seamlessly with the other ingredients, enhancing the overall brownie experience.

Additionally, the acidity in the sourdough helps activate the baking soda in these brownies, leading to a better rise. This interaction can contribute to the fudgy texture that we love. If you don’t have enough discard on hand, you can supplement with a little buttermilk or yogurt, adjusting the flour slightly to maintain the right consistency.

Achieving the Perfect Fudgy Texture

The key to achieving fudgy brownies lies in the ratio of wet to dry ingredients. The melted butter adds moisture, while the cocoa powder contributes to the dense, rich texture. Make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined; this keeps the brownies from becoming cakey. If you prefer an ultra-fudgy center, consider reducing the flour a tad or adding a bit more sourdough discard.

When baking, you'll want to keep a close eye on the brownies. They should develop a slightly glossy top and might look a bit underbaked in the center. Remember, they will continue to cook and firm up as they cool in the pan. If you test with a toothpick and it comes out clean, you might have already overbaked them. Aim for a few moist crumbs instead.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your fudgy brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

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

These ingredients will create a wonderfully rich and fudgy brownie that everyone will love!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your fudgy brownies:

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the brownie batter into a greased baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 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 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving. Enjoy your fudgy sourdough brownies!

Let these brownies cool completely for the best texture before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgent treat, serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. A drizzle of chocolate sauce wouldn’t hurt either!

Storage Tips

These fudgy brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to five days, maintaining their delicious texture. To preserve their fudginess, avoid refrigerating them unless necessary, as cold can change the texture. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut the brownies into squares, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours before enjoying.

If you'd like to serve them warm, you can reheat frozen brownies in the microwave for about 20 seconds or until just warmed through. This will give you that fresh-from-the-oven experience, complete with gooey centers and melted chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with a few simple additions. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache can transform their appearance and flavor. Consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The contrasting temperatures and creamy texture complement the rich fudginess perfectly.

For a fun twist, you can add various toppings before baking, like crushed nuts, sea salt, or caramel swirls. Be adventurous! Each variation introduces a new element to the brownies, making them a dynamic treat perfect for sharing at parties or just enjoying at home.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ How long can I store these brownies?

You can store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! You can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge when you're ready to enjoy.

→ What can I do with leftover sourdough discard?

Besides brownies, sourdough discard can be used in pancakes, waffles, bread, and even muffins!