Sourdough Brownies

Deeply flavorful and wonderfully soft, Sourdough Brownies are a delightful treat that bring a unique twist to the traditional brownie. Made with sourdough discard, these brownies not only help reduce waste but also deliver a texture that is incredibly chewy and rich. Perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations, these brownies will satisfy your chocolate cravings and impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Texture: The use of sourdough discard gives these brownies a chewy, moist texture that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these brownies in no time.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize your brownies by adding nuts or chocolate chunks for an extra flavor boost.
• Waste Reduction: This recipe is a clever way to use leftover sourdough starter instead of tossing it out.
• Decadent Indulgence: Rich cocoa and chocolate flavors make these brownies a true chocolate lover’s delight.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Sourdough Brownies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining all ingredients without spills.
• Whisk or hand mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, saving you time and effort.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in ingredients gently without overmixing.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easy to remove the brownies after baking.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Sourdough Brownies, gather the following ingredients:

• 170g or ¾ cups butter, unsalted
• 300g or 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 80g or ¾ cups dutch process cocoa
• 2 egg yolks plus 1 whole egg from large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ½ tsp fine sea salt
• 100g sourdough discard (unfed starter)
• 65g or ½ cup all purpose flour
• 120 g semi-sweet or dark chocolate (very finely chopped, optional)

How to Make Sourdough Brownies

Follow these steps to create your Sourdough Brownies:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a heatproof bowl:
1. Set the butter and warm it in the microwave for about one minute until partially melted.
2. Add the sugar. Whisk well, then microwave again for another minute until fully melted and combined.
3. Incorporate the cocoa, whisking until the mixture clumps around the whisk.

Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Add the following ingredients:
1. The egg, two egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Use a hand mixer or whisk vigorously for about two minutes until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Discard and Flour

1. Add in the sourdough discard and flour, mixing just until combined.
2. If desired, fold in the finely chopped chocolate.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan:
1. Bake until the top appears matte and puffed in the center—about 40 minutes.
2. Allow them to cool before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Sourdough Brownies!

How to Serve Sourdough Brownies

Sourdough brownies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their rich, chocolaty flavor pairs well with many accompaniments, making them perfect for both casual snacks and special occasions.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: The sweetness of ripe strawberries complements the deep chocolate flavor.
• Raspberries: Their tartness adds a refreshing contrast to the brownies.
• Blueberries: These juicy berries provide a burst of flavor and color.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic and creamy, it balances the richness of the brownies.
• Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this doubles the decadence.
• Coconut Sorbet: A dairy-free option that adds a tropical twist.

Drizzled with Sauce

• Caramel Sauce: Warm caramel enhances the sweetness and adds a gooey texture.
• Chocolate Sauce: For an extra chocolate hit, drizzle this over your brownies.
• Raspberry Coulis: This tangy sauce brightens up each bite with its fruity flavor.

Topped with Nuts

• Chopped Walnuts: Their crunchiness adds texture and nutty flavor to every bite.
• Sliced Almonds: These provide a delicate crunch and mild sweetness.
• Pecans: Rich and buttery, pecans pair beautifully with chocolate.

How to Perfect Sourdough Brownies

Perfecting your sourdough brownies takes just a few tips. Follow these to ensure every batch turns out amazing!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your eggs and sourdough discard to reach room temperature for better mixing.
• Measure accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and cocoa powder.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined after adding flour to avoid tough brownies.
• Check doneness carefully: Insert a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Brownies

Pairing side dishes with sourdough brownies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a creamy touch without overpowering the chocolate flavor.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fruits or even brownie bites into warm melted chocolate for added indulgence.
4. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the brownies perfectly.
5. Chai Tea: Spiced tea offers warmth and enhances the flavors of chocolate desserts.
6. Nutty Granola: For crunch, sprinkle some granola on top or serve it on the side for added texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Sourdough Brownies, avoid these common mistakes that can lead to less-than-ideal results.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Baking is a science, so using the right measurements ensures the texture and flavor of your brownies are just right.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to dense brownies. Mix until just combined for a soft and chewy texture.
• Skipping the parchment paper – Not lining your baking pan can result in brownies that stick. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Ignoring baking time – Overbaking can dry out your brownies. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they are just set.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold butter or eggs can affect how well they incorporate into the batter. Let them come to room temperature for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Sourdough Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Sourdough Brownies

• Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Reheating Sourdough Brownies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm brownies for about 10 minutes for optimal texture.
• Microwave – Heat a brownie on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm and gooey.
• Stovetop – Place a brownie in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sourdough Brownies that might help you enjoy this delightful treat even more.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in Sourdough Brownies?

You can substitute whole wheat flour; however, it may alter the texture slightly making them denser.

How do I know when my Sourdough Brownies are done?

Check if the top is matte and puffed, then collapses slightly. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I add nuts to my Sourdough Brownies?

Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add great texture and flavor. Fold them into the batter before baking.

What makes these Sourdough Brownies unique?

The use of sourdough discard not only reduces waste but also enhances the flavor and creates a wonderful chewy texture.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to maintain consistency.

Final Thoughts

These Sourdough Brownies are rich, chocolaty, and incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or even swirls of caramel. Give this recipe a try and enjoy deliciously soft brownies that are not only satisfying but also use up your sourdough discard!