Crispy Sourdough Discard Brownies

Name: Crispy Sourdough Discard Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 cup sourdough discard; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Pastry Love

I absolutely love creating desserts that reduce waste, and these Crispy Sourdough Discard Brownies do just that! Every time I bake, I save my sourdough discard in the fridge, knowing that it’s perfect for adding a depth of flavor and moisture to my brownies. The contrast of crispy edges and a fudgy center makes these treats irresistible. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them an easy option for a delightful snack or dessert for friends and family. You won’t want to miss trying these!

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:37:11.536Z

When I first experimented with sourdough discard in brownies, I was amazed at how it transformed the flavor profile! The tanginess of the sourdough adds a unique complexity, balancing the sweetness beautifully. I played around with baking times, and found that a few extra minutes in the oven created those crunchy edges that I adore, while still keeping the center delightfully fudgy.

One trick I've learned is to let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting. This not only makes slicing easier but also enhances the texture, giving them that perfect chewy consistency. Trust me, this method will elevate your brownie game!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor enhanced by sourdough tang
Perfectly crispy edges with a moist center
Easy to make with minimal effort

Embrace the Sourdough Flavor

The sourdough discard adds a unique tanginess that elevates the classic brownie recipe. This flavor enhancement comes from the fermentation process of the sourdough, which not only contributes depth but also a delightful complexity that balances the sweetness of the brownies. Be sure your sourdough discard is active for the best results, as this will ensure an optimal rise and a beautifully fudgy texture.

If you’re concerned about the sourness, it’s worth noting that the cocoa powder and chocolate chips will mask a lot of that tang. Adjusting the amount of sourdough can help you find the perfect balance that suits your palate. A little experimentation here can lead to your signature brownie recipe!

Texture is Key

The contrast between the crispy edges and the fudgy center is what makes these brownies so memorable. To achieve this, ensure you spread the batter evenly in the pan; uneven distribution can lead to overcooked edges and undercooked centers. When the edges begin to pull away from the sides of the pan and the top develops a slight sheen, it's a good indicator that they are nearly done.

If you find that your brownies are consistently gooey in the center after the recommended baking time, consider extending the baking time by an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Just remember to check every few minutes to prevent overbaking, which can lead to dry brownies.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

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

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Melt Butter and Mix Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter. Remove it from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.

Incorporate Sourdough Discard

Add the sourdough discard to the butter mixture, stirring until combined.

Mix Everything Together

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix. Stir in the chocolate chips.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious, crispy brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate taste.

Storing Your Brownies

Once your brownies have cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them. However, be aware that refrigeration may dull the flavors slightly. For long-term storage, consider freezing them; cut them into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months!

To enjoy your frozen brownies, simply take them out and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before indulging. This allows them to soften up while still maintaining their structure.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with mix-ins! Chopped nuts, caramel swirls, or even a pinch of espresso can take these brownies to the next level. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of cream cheese for a cheesecake swirl effect, which complements the sourdough tang beautifully.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, ensuring that it contains xanthan gum to maintain proper texture. Just like that, you can enjoy these brownies without sacrificing flavor or texture!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of sourdough discard?

Yes, any sourdough discard will work, but the flavor may vary slightly based on your starter.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them well in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for the eggs for a vegan option.