These sourdough brownies transform sourdough discard into decadent chocolate bliss! Moist, rich, and with a subtle tang, they offer incredible depth of flavor and a soft, chewy texture. Whether you make them classic, with brown butter, or vegan, they’re sure to become a favorite.
8x8-inch baking pan (Metal preferred for even baking)
Parchment paper (For easy removal)
Medium saucepan (For melting butter)
Mixing bowls (One medium, one large)
Whisk (For mixing wet ingredients)
Silicone spatula or wooden spoon (For folding ingredients)
Measuring cups & spoons (Or a kitchen scale for accuracy)
Wire cooling rack (For cooling brownies)
Ingredients
½cupUnsalted butter- Can be browned for more flavor
1cupGranulated sugar- Can be reduced for less sweetness
2Large eggs- Room temperature
1teaspoonVanilla extract- Pure vanilla preferred
½cupSourdough discard- 100% hydration, straight from fridge is fine
⅓cupCocoa powder- Unsweetened
½cupAll-purpose flour - King Arthur flour recommended
½teaspoonSalt- Enhances chocolate flavor
½cupChocolate chips or chopped nuts- Optional
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt butter. For brown butter brownies, continue cooking until amber and nutty-smelling, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in sugar until well combined. Let cool for 2-3 minutes.
Whisk in eggs one at a time, incorporating fully after each addition. Mixture should become smooth and glossy.
Stir in vanilla extract, then gently fold in sourdough discard until fully incorporated. The batter may look slightly curdled at first—this is normal.
Sift cocoa powder, flour, and salt directly into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
Pour batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are set but the center looks slightly underdone. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For extra fudgy brownies, refrigerate for 1 hour before cutting into 16 squares.
Notes
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be considered an approximation. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes