Sourdough Brownies Recipe (Discard Brownie Recipe)

When we think of sourdough, our minds often conjure images of crusty artisan bread and bubbly starter cultures. But what if I told you that this natural yeast powerhouse can lend its unique qualities to something as indulgent as brownies? Imagine sinking your teeth into a fudgy brownie that boasts not only the rich, melty goodness of chocolate but also the delightful tang of sourdough.

This easy sourdough brownie recipe combines familiar elements like unsalted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract with the surprising inclusion of sourdough discard. The tangy notes brought by the discard play off the rich cocoa powder forming a chocolate mixture that beckons even the most discerning chocolate lover.

Table Of Contents

Sourdough Discard And Sustainability

Baking the perfect fudgy brownies is a great baking achievement. Combining the unbeatable fudgy texture with the magic of sustainability makes for a delicious way to have a more eco-friendly kitchen.  The addition of sourdough starter discord to your brownies not only improves the flavor but it is also a small, yet impactful, step towards reducing your food waste. 

In recent years, the idea of repurposing food scraps has gained tractions, and sourdough starter discard has been a star player in this movement. The sustainable aspect of using sourdough discard in various recipes, like these delicious brownies, is the perfect way to put those chocolate cravings to good use. With every bite of yummy tender brownie your inner chocolate lover can feel good about make a small step towards a more eco-friendly kitchen. 

What Are The Health Benefits Of Using Sourdough Starter Discard?

Okay listen, I’m not going to go so far as to say these sourdough discard brownies are healthy. At the end of the day they are still dessert. However, using sourdough discard does have notable health benefits. So maybe these brownies aren’t “healthy” but we can at still feel better knowing the benefits that sourdough discard provides.

Gut-Friendly Fermentation

Sourdough starter discard is a product of natural fermentation, which introduces beneficial bacteria and enzymes to the mixture. This fermentation process can contribute to a healthier gut microbiome, aiding digestion and potentially boosting nutrient absorption. The live cultures produced during fermentation may promote gut health and support a well-functioning digestive system.

Increased Nutrient Availability

The fermentation process involved in sourdough discard activates enzymes that break down complex nutrients, making them more bioavailable for your body. This means that the nutrients present in the brownies – such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants – are more easily absorbed by your system, enhancing their overall nutritional value.

Lower Glycemic Index

Sourdough starter discard has been shown to influence the glycemic index of baked goods. The fermentation process reduces the availability of simple sugars and may result in a slower, more controlled rise in blood sugar levels after consumption. This can be particularly beneficial for those looking to manage their blood sugar levels, making sourdough discard brownies a more balanced option compared to traditional brownies.

Enhanced Digestibility

The fermentation process in sourdough discard helps break down anti-nutrients, such as phytic acid, which can hinder the absorption of certain minerals like iron and zinc. This means that when you enjoy these brownies, you’re potentially enhancing the digestibility and nutrient utilization of the ingredients.

Ingredients For Easy Sourdough Brownies

• 1 1/4 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup sourdough starter discard
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 eggs

Fudgy Sourdough Brownie Recipe

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare an 8 inch baking pan with either parchment paper or nonstick spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, or a stand mixer with the whisk attachment, combine the melted butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla. Mixture will be grainy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each egg.
3. Add the discard, flour, and cocoa to the large bowl and mix until just combined. Use a spatula to scrap down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth out the top. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out with no liquid batter attached.
5. Set the pan on a wire rack to cool at room temperature for at least 15 minutes.
6. Enjoy the best brownies!

Tips And Variations

Eating the regular brownies is amazing but if you are looking for a great way to take things to the next level I have a few ideas.

• Serve with a scoop of ice cream and fresh raspberries 
• Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes on top while the brownies cool
• Add semi-sweet chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips to the brownie batter if you are a serious chocolate lover
• Drizzle a little warm peanut butter on top

The possibilities are endless really.

How To Store Cooled Brownies

After baking up a batch of these delectable treats, ensuring your brownies stay fresh and maintain their wonderful texture is key. You have two options for protecting your brownies:

• Once they’ve reached room temperature, tightly wrap the brownies in plastic wrap. This protective layer helps prevent moisture loss and preserves the fudgy texture that makes a good brownie truly exceptional.
• Place the brownies in an airtight container. This serves as a defense against air exposure, ensuring that your brownies remain moist and flavorful. When sealing the container, take care to minimize any air trapped inside.

Find a cool, dry spot to store your brownies. A pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight and heat sources is ideal. Avoid storing brownies in the refrigerator, as the cold temperatures can alter their texture and potentially dry them out.

How Long Do Brownies Stay Fresh?

Homemade brownies, when stored correctly, can last for about 3 to 4 days at room temperature.

My Favorite Sourdough Recipes

EASY SOURDOUGH BREAD RECIPE (PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS)

SIMPLE SOURDOUGH PIZZA CRUST RECIPE (NO YEAST!)

HOMEMADE SOURDOUGH BREAD BOWL RECIPE

HOW TO BAKE SOURDOUGH BREAD WITHOUT A DUTCH OVEN

Sourdough Brownies Recipe (Discard Brownie Recipe)