Fudgy Sourdough Discard Brownies

Name: Fudgy Sourdough Discard Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup sourdough starter, at room temperature; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Craft

I love experimenting in the kitchen, and these fudgy sourdough discard brownies have become a favorite treat in my home. Using leftover sourdough starter adds a unique depth of flavor and moisture that regular brownies just can’t match. Each bite bursts with chocolatey richness, and the texture is irresistibly fudgy. If you’re looking to make a delicious dessert while minimizing waste, these brownies are the perfect solution. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to whip up in just a short time!

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:04:20.680Z

When I first made these fudgy sourdough discard brownies, I was pleasantly surprised by how the sourdough starter enhanced the chocolate flavor without being overpowering. It’s an excellent way to utilize what would normally go to waste, and the result is a rich, dense brownie that everyone devoured. The key is to not overmix the batter; gentle folding keeps them fudgy and moist.

I've tried various brownie recipes over the years, but adding sourdough starter is a game changer. It gives them a unique twist and a delightful chewiness. I usually keep a jar of discard in the fridge, so I can make these brownies whenever a chocolate craving strikes. Trust me, once you make them, you’ll always want to have some sourdough starter on hand!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor enhanced by sourdough
Ultra fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
A clever way to use up sourdough discard

Understanding Sourdough Discard

Using sourdough discard in these brownies not only helps minimize food waste but also adds complexity to their flavor profile. The natural fermentation tang from the sourdough balances the sweetness of the sugar, resulting in a rich, decadent taste. This is particularly important in fudgy brownies, where balancing sweet and savory is key to achieving a gourmet flavor experience.

Another benefit of incorporating sourdough starter is the added moisture it brings to the brownies. This prevents them from becoming dry, which can sometimes happen with traditional brownie recipes. If you're concerned about the tang from the sourdough being too pronounced, rest assured it mellows considerably after baking, allowing the chocolate to shine.

Perfecting the Fudgy Texture

To achieve the ultimate fudgy texture, make sure to avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; this will help prevent the formation of too much gluten. The right balance of butter to flour is also crucial—using the specified amount of butter keeps the brownies moist and rich without making them excessively oily.

When baking, keep an eye on the brownies towards the end of the baking time. You want them to be set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. The toothpick test is your best friend here; insert it in the center and pull it out with a few moist crumbs for that gooey, fudgy finish.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start for a smooth baking experience!

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup sourdough starter, at room temperature
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Once you’ve gathered all your ingredients, you’re ready to get started on these delicious brownies!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your fudgy brownies perfectly!

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, mixing until well combined. Add in the sourdough starter, eggs, and vanilla extract, and stir until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Cut

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Enjoy these fudgy brownies warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For even richer brownies, consider using brown sugar in place of some of the granulated sugar. You can also add nuts or different types of chocolate for a personalized touch.

Storing Leftover Brownies

If you have any brownies leftover, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their fudginess, avoid refrigerating them as this can dry them out. Alternatively, layer the brownies between sheets of parchment paper in a sealed container to help retain moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the brownies. Wrap individual squares tightly in foil or plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth.

Adding Your Own Twist

Feel free to experiment with mix-ins or toppings to put your own spin on these brownies. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can be folded into the batter for added crunch, or you could swirl in a layer of caramel or peanut butter for extra indulgence. You could even top the baked brownies with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a striking presentation.

If you're looking to make these brownies a bit lighter, you can substitute part of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. This will cut down on the richness while still maintaining moisture, creating a slightly different but still delicious brownie experience that captures a fudgy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use active sourdough starter?

Yes, active or discard sourdough both work well in this recipe.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can these brownies be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I substitute for the eggs?

You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg for a vegan option.