Sourdough Discard Brownies One Bowl

Name: Sourdough Discard Brownies One Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 9 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup sourdough discard; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love creating delicious desserts, and these sourdough discard brownies have become one of my favorites. Using sourdough starter gives them a unique flavor and moisture that I just can't resist. Plus, the fact that it's all made in one bowl means less cleanup, which is always a bonus in my kitchen! I truly enjoy whipping these up for family gatherings or a quiet night in, knowing it's a treat everyone will appreciate.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:52:16.106Z

Every time I make these sourdough discard brownies, I am reminded of my love for experimenting in the kitchen. The combination of rich chocolate with the unique tang of sourdough creates a treat that’s incredibly moist and satisfying. I remember the first time I served them, and my friends couldn’t believe the incredible depth of flavor.

One tip I’ve learned is to let them cool completely before cutting. This helps set the edges, giving a sturdier yet gooey brownie that’s perfect for sharing. You’ll impress everyone, including yourself!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Unexpectedly delightful flavors from the sourdough starter
Simplistic one-bowl preparation saves time and effort
Rich, fudgy texture perfect for chocolate lovers

      

Understanding Sourdough Discard

Sourdough discard isn’t just waste; it's a secret weapon in baking! In this brownie recipe, the sourdough discard adds a slight tang that beautifully balances the sweetness of the chocolate. This unique flavor profile is particularly appealing to those who enjoy complex desserts. Make sure your starter is active but not too bubbly; otherwise, the brownies might rise excessively and result in a cake-like texture instead of the desired fudgy result.

Besides enhancing flavor, sourdough discard contributes to the overall moisture content of the brownies. The natural acids in the sourdough also interact with the baking soda, providing a lighter texture. This means you could achieve a rich and dense crumb without feeling overly guilty about the indulgence, making these brownies a delightful treat that feels less heavy than typical versions.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

When mixing in the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, as the gluten in the flour develops too much. Instead, gently stir until you see no more flour streaks. If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the dry mix; it enhances the chocolate richness without leaving an overt coffee taste.

For baking, keep an eye on the brownies as they approach the 25-minute mark. Every oven is different, and some may bake more quickly than others. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges begin to pull away slightly from the pan, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Remember, they will continue to firm up while cooling in the pan.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your brownies.

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup sourdough discard
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Special Notes

Make sure your sourdough discard is at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your brownies.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 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 at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy Your Treat!

Pair with ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter which enhances the chocolate taste.

Storage and Freezing

These sourdough discard brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days, making them a great option for meal prep or last-minute snacks. If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate them, but this may alter the fudgy texture slightly. To retain their best quality, I often freeze brownies that I can't finish right away. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag; they’ll keep well for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen brownies, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. For a quick warm-up, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds. This gives them that freshly-baked feel, with gooey chocolate bits almost melting at first bite.

Creative Serving Suggestions

While these brownies are delightfully decadent on their own, you can elevate the experience with a few simple additions. Consider serving them warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel for a classic dessert that’s sure to impress. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before serving; this contrast enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.

For a twist, try adding mix-ins to the batter. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans lend a nice crunch, while dried fruits like cherries or cranberries can add a pop of tartness. You can even swirl in some peanut butter or Nutella for a nutty chocolate surprise that takes these brownies to a whole new level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use discard from any sourdough starter?

Yes, any type of sourdough discard will work, just ensure it’s at room temperature.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option.