Ultimate Homemade Sourdough Brownies
Ultimate Homemade Sourdough Brownies are rich, fudgy chocolate brownies enhanced with a tangy sourdough starter that adds unique flavor and moisture. Perfectly soft and chewy, these brownies blend classic chocolate indulgence with the complexity of natural fermentation, making them a delightful treat for brownie lovers and sourdough enthusiasts alike.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies (8x8 inch pan, cut into 16 squares) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free flour used)
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (120g) active or discard sourdough starter
- 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins & Variations
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (Nutty Delight)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dark, milk, or white)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, cayenne, or espresso powder (Spiced Brownies)
- Substitute butter with coconut oil and eggs with flaxseed or chia egg for Vegan version
- Prep Your Ingredients and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of your brownies.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, melt the butter and combine it with sugar. Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth. Then fold in the sourdough starter, making sure it’s well-incorporated for that perfect tang.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and flavor.
- Bring It All Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and keep the brownies tender.
- Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Insert a toothpick near the center — it should come out with a few moist crumbs for the ideal fudgy texture.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to firm up before slicing into squares for serving.
Notes
- Use a fed or discard sourdough starter at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Remove brownies from oven as soon as a toothpick shows moist crumbs for soft, fudgy results.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Adjust sugar according to the bitterness of your cocoa powder and personal taste preferences.
- Try one variation at a time to understand how each addition affects flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (1 of 16)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: sourdough brownies, homemade brownies, sourdough discard recipe, fudgy brownies, gluten-free brownies, chocolate brownies