Crispy Sourdough Discard Brownies

Name: Crispy Sourdough Discard Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups sugar; 1 cup sourdough discard; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Cakes & Desserts

I absolutely love experimenting in the kitchen, and these Crispy Sourdough Discard Brownies have become my latest obsession. By using sourdough discard, I not only reduce food waste but also create a deliciously rich brownie with a unique texture. The crispy edges and chewy center are truly irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that leftover sourdough starter! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy the delightful balance of flavors and textures in every bite.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:31:14.125Z

When I first whipped up these brownies, I was curious to see how the sourdough discard would change the flavor profile. To my delight, the subtle tang from the sourdough paired beautifully with the rich chocolate. I recommend letting the brownies cool completely before slicing, as this helps set their structure perfectly.

Each time I make these, I experiment with different additions like nuts or chocolate chips, which can enhance the texture and flavor even further. Trust me, the crispy edges and soft center make every bite a little piece of heaven!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Unique flavor from leftover sourdough
Crispy edges paired with a fudgy center
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

Understanding Sourdough Discard

Sourdough discard is a byproduct of maintaining a sourdough starter, which many bakers find themselves with in excess. Using this discard not only adds a subtle depth of flavor to your brownies but also lends moisture that enhances their fudge-like consistency. As it ferments, it develops a slight tang, enriching the sweetness of the brownies in ways that vanilla or chocolate alone cannot. Embracing sourdough discard in your baking reduces waste while showcasing your commitment to creative cooking.

If you’re concerned about the tanginess of your discard affecting the brownies' flavor, consider choosing a discard that's been fed recently. A fresher sourdough discard tends to have a milder flavor. For those who enjoy a more pronounced tang, feel free to opt for discard that has been sitting out for some time for an even richer flavor profile.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

The beauty of these brownies lies in their contrasting textures: crisp edges and a chewy center. To achieve this, use a high-quality baking pan; metal ones yield better results than glass. Ensure your baking pan is properly greased or lined, as this prevents sticking and promotes even baking. Additionally, mixing the batter just until combined rather than overmixing helps maintain that desirable fudgy texture—overmixed batter can lead to a denser, cake-like result.

Watch for visual cues as you bake the brownies. You want to see the edges pulling away slightly from the sides of the pan, and a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, indicating they are perfectly set without being dry. This technique is crucial as it ensures the brownies maintain their fudgy demeanor while preventing underbaking.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

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

Now that you have everything, let's get started on creating these delectable brownies!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, sourdough discard, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

If using, fold in the chocolate chips for an extra chocolaty treat.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy your crispy sourdough brownies!

Now that your brownies are baked, they make a wonderful snack or dessert!

Pro Tips

For more complex flavors, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the brownies before baking, or substitute half the sugar with brown sugar for added moisture.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Sourdough Discard Brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them further with a few serving ideas. Try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast between the warm brownie and the cold ice cream. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce adds an indulgent touch that complements the brownies' rich flavor beautifully.

For a fun twist, serve the brownies with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. The tartness of the berries pairs well with the sweetness of the brownies, creating a balanced dessert that's sure to impress. Alternatively, dust with powdered sugar or serve with a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the flavors.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you find yourself with leftover brownies, you’re in luck! These brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. This allows the flavors to continue melding, enhancing your dessert experience. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months.

To enjoy frozen brownies, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, just until warmed through. This will rejuvenate their fudgy center and give you that fresh-baked taste without the extra effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but keep in mind it may change the texture slightly.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can this recipe be doubled?

Absolutely! Just use a larger baking pan and extend the baking time slightly as needed.

→ Is there a vegan substitution for the eggs?

Yes, you can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for a vegan version.