Brownies With Sourdough Starter

Name: Brownies With Sourdough Starter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup sourdough starter; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Planning

I love crafting desserts that surprise and delight, and these brownies with sourdough starter are no exception. The unique twist of using sourdough brings a subtle tanginess that balances the rich chocolate flavor perfectly. Every time I make these, I not only satisfy my chocolate cravings but also make good use of my sourdough discard. This recipe is simple yet incredibly rewarding, and I can't wait to share it with you all!

Created by

Blythe Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:31:35.186Z

These brownies have become my go-to dessert because they're so easy to make and incredibly rich. The incorporation of sourdough starter not only helps reduce waste but also adds a depth of flavor that elevates the usual brownie to something special. I was pleasantly surprised the first time I used my sourdough starter in this recipe, and now I wouldn’t make brownies any other way.

What I’ve found makes a big difference is using high-quality cocoa powder and good chocolate. This combination, alongside the tang from the sourdough, creates a brownie that’s ultra fudgy and satisfying. When I share these delights, they always receive rave reviews!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor with a hint of tanginess from the sourdough
Fudgy texture that satisfies every chocolate craving
A great way to use sourdough discard and minimize waste

The Role of Sourdough Starter

Incorporating sourdough starter into brownies not only enhances flavor but also improves the texture. The natural fermentation process gives a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the sugar, creating a more complex taste. The acidity in the sourdough can also interact with the baking soda in recipes, though in this case, the brownies rely more on the combination of ingredients rather than leavening. This means you won't get overly fluffy brownies, but rather a rich, fudgy consistency that will satisfy any chocolate lover.

Using sourdough starter effectively can transform your traditional brownie recipe. Choose a starter that is well-fed for the best results; a stronger sourdough will impart more character into the brownies. If your starter is overly acidic, consider adjusting the sugar slightly to maintain the right balance of sweetness and tanginess. If you're short on starter, using 1 cup of buttermilk or yogurt as a substitute can yield similar results, though you may want to reduce the other liquid ingredients slightly.

Achieving the Perfect Fudgy Texture

To achieve that ultimate fudgy brownie texture, it's crucial not to over-mix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Mixing just until ingredients are combined prevents incorporating too much air, keeping the brownies dense and chewy. Another tip is to underbake slightly; the brownies should be set on the edges but still soft in the center—they'll continue to cook as they cool in the pan. I find that a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, which indicates a perfect brownie.

The chocolate chips play a significant role in the texture and flavor of these brownies. I recommend using a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips for a depth of flavor. If you're looking to reduce sugar, dark chocolate chips usually have a higher cocoa content and less sugar, making them a great option. For a variation, you can even replace some of the chocolate chips with chopped nuts or white chocolate to introduce new flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to whip up these delicious brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sourdough starter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's start the baking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your brownies:

Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, mixing until well combined. Then add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and sourdough starter.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

Your brownies are now ready to be devoured!

Pro Tips

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

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Brownies with sourdough starter can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week, maintaining their rich, fudgy texture. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully. Just wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to three months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.

If you plan to make these brownies ahead of time, consider baking them the day before you plan to serve. Brownies often taste even better after a day, as the flavors have time to meld together. When baking ahead, ensure you let them cool completely before cutting; this helps them hold their shape better and also prevents excess moisture from making them soggy.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

For those who want to explore flavors beyond the classic brownie, try adding a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella on top of the brownie batter just before baking. Using a knife, you can create a marbled effect that looks beautiful and adds a delightfully creamy texture. Additionally, try folding in some toasted coconut or a mix of dried fruit for added chewiness and a burst of flavor.

If you want to make these brownies even richer, consider adding espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor without making them taste like coffee. A teaspoon of espresso powder dissolved in your wet mixture will give you that depth without overpowering. Experimenting with spices like cinnamon or even a pinch of sea salt on top before baking can elevate your brownies to the next level, bringing out unexpected flavor notes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

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

→ What should I do with leftover sourdough starter?

These brownies are a great way to use up your sourdough discard. You can also use it in pancakes, waffles, or bread.

→ How can I tell when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.