Fudgy Sourdough Discard Brownies Rich Chocolate

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

Indulge in these rich and fudgy brownies that utilize sourdough discard, creating a deliciously unique treat.

Lena

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-27T18:02:28.034Z

These fudgy brownies are a delightful way to use up sourdough discard while satisfying your chocolate cravings. The combination of rich chocolate and tangy sourdough creates a unique flavor profile that's sure to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
  • Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
  • Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Magic of Sourdough Discard

Sourdough discard is a wonderful ingredient that often goes unused, but it can add depth and moisture to baked goods like brownies. Rather than tossing it out, using sourdough discard in your brownie recipe not only reduces waste but also enhances the flavor profile. The natural fermentation process contributes subtle tangy notes that beautifully complement the rich chocolate, creating a unique and delicious treat.

Incorporating sourdough discard into your brownies introduces beneficial probiotics and enhances the texture. This ingredient helps to create a fudgy consistency that makes every bite melt in your mouth. Plus, it’s an excellent way to experiment with flavors while giving your traditional brownie recipe a delightful twist.

Enhancing Flavor with Zest

Adding a hint of citrus zest, like fresh orange, elevates these brownies to a new level. The bright notes from the orange zest contrast beautifully with the deep, rich chocolate, providing a well-rounded flavor experience. A touch of zest can transform your dessert from ordinary to extraordinary, making it perfect for special occasions or a simple after-dinner treat.

The zest not only adds flavor but also a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen as the brownies bake. This sensory experience can make the time spent in the kitchen all the more enjoyable, and your guests will surely appreciate the thoughtful touch it brings to these fudgy delights.

Perfect Occasions for Fudgy Brownies

These fudgy brownies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving a sweet indulgence, these brownies are sure to please a crowd. Their rich chocolate flavor makes them a hit among chocolate lovers, while the unique addition of sourdough discard makes them a talking point at gatherings.

You can also package these brownies as homemade gifts for friends or family. A beautiful presentation in a decorative box or tin can turn your brownies into a thoughtful and delicious gift that showcases your baking skills. Additionally, they are perfect for potlucks or office parties, where they are sure to be devoured quickly.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup sourdough discard
  • 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

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Melt Butter and Mix Ingredients

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, sourdough discard, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 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 before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy these brownies warm or at room temperature!

Storing Your Brownies

To keep your fudgy brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, although they are likely to be eaten long before then! For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their deliciousness for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen brownies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You can even warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to enhance that gooey texture that makes these brownies so irresistible.

Customization Tips

Feel free to customize these brownies to suit your taste preferences! You can mix in nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch. Alternatively, consider adding a swirl of peanut butter or cream cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Experimenting with different toppings, like sea salt or caramel drizzle, can also elevate your brownies to gourmet status.

If you prefer a different chocolate flavor, try using dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate for a sweeter alternative. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to make these brownies uniquely yours while still keeping that rich, fudgy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be served on their own, but for an indulgent treat, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm brownies with cold ice cream creates a delightful dessert experience that is sure to impress. Drizzle with chocolate sauce or sprinkle with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

For those looking for a lighter option, serving the brownies with fresh berries can add a refreshing contrast. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the brownies beautifully, making for a satisfying dessert that is both rich and refreshing.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if needed.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, brownies can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of sourdough discard?

You can substitute sourdough discard with yogurt or applesauce, but the flavor will differ slightly.

Fudgy Sourdough Discard Brownies Rich Chocolate

Indulge in these rich and fudgy brownies that utilize sourdough discard, creating a deliciously unique treat.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Lena

Recipe Type: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 12 servings

What You'll Need

Brownie Ingredients

  1. 1 cup unsalted butter
  2. 2 cups granulated sugar
  3. 1 cup sourdough discard
  4. 4 large eggs
  5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  6. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  7. 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  8. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  9. 1 cup chocolate chips

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Step 02

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, sourdough discard, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.

Step 03

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Step 04

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 05

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g