Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies: 5 Steps to Irresistible Yum

Welcome to the world of Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies! If you’re like me and hate to waste that precious sourdough starter, then these brownies are going to be your new best friend. They’re rich, chocolaty, and oh-so-decadent, utilizing that leftover sourdough starter to not only reduce waste but also to add a unique depth of flavor that you won’t find in regular brownies. Trust me, when I first made these, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so gourmet! The combination of semi-sweet chocolate and that hint of tang from the sourdough creates a balance that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to experiment with your sourdough journey while indulging your sweet tooth. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into making these delightful brownies together!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to whip up your Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies:

• 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate if you prefer a richer flavor)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (make sure it’s softened for easy melting)
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened for that deep chocolate taste)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract (this adds a lovely aroma)
• 1/2 cup sourdough starter discard (don’t worry, it’s what makes these brownies special!)
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (for that chewy texture)
• 1 cup white sugar (this gives the sweetness we all love)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature is best to combine smoothly)
• 1 egg yolk (this adds richness to the batter)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (helps bind everything together)
• 1 tsp salt (to enhance all those sweet flavors)

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a batch of brownies that will have everyone asking for seconds!

How to Prepare Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies

Let’s dive into the deliciously simple process of making these Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies! Follow these steps, and I promise you’ll end up with a fudgy, chocolatey treat that will impress everyone.

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures even baking. While that’s warming up, line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting it hang over the edges. This little trick makes it so much easier to lift the brownies out later!

Melt the Chocolate Mixture

Now, grab a saucepan and set it over low heat. Melt the butter in there, and then add the semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the cocoa powder and vanilla extract. Stir gently until everything is smooth and combined. Keep an eye on it—burnt chocolate is a sad sight! Once melted, take it off the heat and let it cool a bit.

Mixing Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, egg yolk, white sugar, and brown sugar. You want to mix this for about 7–10 minutes until it’s light, fluffy, and creamy—trust me, this step makes a difference! Once you’ve achieved that airy texture, gently fold in the sourdough starter discard and the cooled chocolate mixture until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few streaks; we’ll take care of that in the next step!

Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Sift the flour and salt directly into the bowl, and fold them in gently. Be careful not to overmix! You want to maintain that lovely, thick batter without developing too much gluten.

Baking the Brownies

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared dish, making sure to get into the corners. Bake for 35–40 minutes. To check for doneness, stick a toothpick in the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’re golden!

Cooling and Slicing

Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial for getting those nice, clean slices later. Patience is key here, but the delicious reward will be totally worth it!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! These Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies are a treat, and while they’re delicious, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in. Each brownie (when cut into 16 squares) has an estimated nutritional profile of:

• Calories: 220–240
• Fat: 12–13 g
• Protein: 2–3 g
• Carbohydrates: 30–32 g
• Sugar: 30–32 g
• Sodium: 75 mg
• Cholesterol: 30 mg

Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and methods. Enjoy these rich brownies in moderation, and savor every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these brownies in no time—perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of semi-sweet chocolate and tangy sourdough starter creates a flavor profile that’s unbelievably delicious and unique.
• Reduced Food Waste: Using sourdough discard means you’re making something amazing out of what would otherwise go to waste—talk about a win-win!
• Perfectly Fudgy: These brownies are incredibly fudgy and satisfying, making them an ideal treat for any chocolate lover.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, like nuts or chocolate chunks, to make them your own!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies turn out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips you won’t want to miss!

• Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for a richer, more complex flavor. It makes a world of difference!
• Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps achieve those clean, beautiful edges.
• Measure Accurately: Baking is a science! Make sure to measure your ingredients carefully for consistent results.
• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter for extra flavor!
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their fudgy texture.

Variations on Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies! Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing:

• Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added richness.
• Chocolate Types: Try using a mix of dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips for varying sweetness and flavor depth.
• Flavorings: Enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of espresso powder or a splash of almond extract for an unexpected twist.
• Swirls: Create a creamy peanut butter or Nutella swirl on top before baking for a deliciously decadent touch.
• Fruit Additions: Toss in some raspberries or chopped cherries for a fruity contrast that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

These variations are a great way to put your personal stamp on this recipe while still enjoying that rich, fudgy goodness!

Serving Suggestions

These Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies are delicious on their own, but they can be even more delightful with a few tasty accompaniments! I love serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—it’s a match made in heaven! You could also drizzle some rich chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, make a lovely contrast and add a pop of color. Enjoy your brownies with these delicious pairings!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to four days—if they last that long! If you want to enjoy them later, you can also freeze them. Just wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that fudgy texture.

FAQ Section

Got questions about these Easy Sourdough Discard Brownies? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries:

• Can I use any kind of sourdough discard? Absolutely! Just make sure it’s not too old. Fresh or unfed sourdough starter works best for flavor and texture.
• What’s the best way to store brownies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. You can also freeze them for longer storage!
• Can I substitute the chocolate chips? Yes! Feel free to use white chocolate, milk chocolate, or even a mix for different flavors. Just keep in mind it may change the sweetness level.
• How do I know when the brownies are done? Do the toothpick test! Insert it in the center, and if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re perfect!
• Can I make these brownies gluten-free? You can try substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just be aware it might affect the texture slightly.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to whip up the perfect batch of brownies every time!

For more recipes follow me in page Pinterest.

Print