Sourdough Discard Brownies: A Zero Waste Treat
There’s something soulful about baking sourdough discard brownies a feeling that wraps you in warmth even before the oven timer dings. The rich aroma of cocoa mingling with that hint of tang from your starter scrapings creates a depth of flavor you just don’t get from a box. These sourdough discard brownies don’t just help reduce food waste; they transform your sourdough discard into the fudgiest, chewiest treat imaginable. It’s a brilliant way to answer the question, what to do with sourdough discard, especially when chocolate is calling. That crinkly top and dense, gooey center? They speak straight to the heart.
I still remember baking a batch of these on a quiet Sunday afternoon, the kind where rain taps gently on the windows and the kitchen feels like a world of its own. My daughter sat at the counter with her chin perched on her hands, eyes sparkling with anticipation. The scent brought her running every time I opened the oven door. When we finally sliced into them warm, soft, and impossibly chocolatey it was the kind of moment that lingers. Every bite tasted like love, memories, and home baked into a brownie pan.
When you’ve got a batch of sourdough discard ready to go, whipping up some delicious brownies is a fantastic idea! You might also enjoy trying out these chocolate zucchini bread or even these classic apple crisp bars, which can often be adapted to use sourdough discard as well.
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Sourdough Discard Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These sourdough discard brownies are perfect for reducing food waste while enjoying a delectable, gooey dessert packed with rich chocolate flavor and a hint of tang.
Ingredients
- Butter – 70 grams
- Granulated sugar – 250 grams
- Egg – 1 large
- Egg yolks – 2
- Vegetable oil – 72 grams
- Cocoa powder – 75 grams
- Sourdough discard – 56 grams
- All-purpose flour – 40 grams
- Baking soda – ⅛ teaspoon
- Cornstarch – 7 grams
- Kosher salt – 4 grams
- Chocolate chips – 100 grams
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F and line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, microwave the butter and sugar for about 2 minutes and whisk until smooth.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then whisk in the egg and egg yolks until glossy.
- Incorporate cocoa powder and vegetable oil, followed by the sourdough discard, ensuring no streaks remain.
- Fold in the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt with a spatula.
- Stir in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for around 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Use quality chocolate to enhance flavor.
- Avoid overmixing to prevent dense brownies.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: sourdough discard brownies, reduce food waste, chocolate flavor
Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Discard Brownies
- Easy to make: These brownies come together in one bowl, no need for fancy tools or mixers.
- Flexible: Customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts or use different chocolate chips.
- Perfect for busy days: Quick prep and baking time, ideal for families or when guests drop by.
- Eco-friendly: Utilizing sourdough starter discard helps reduce food waste in a delicious way.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Sourdough Discard Brownies
Tools You’ll Need
- Oven
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- 8×8-inch metal baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Microwave
Step 1: Preparation for the Brownies
- Butter – 70 grams
- Granulated sugar – 250 grams
- Egg – 1 large
- Egg yolks – 2
- Vegetable oil – 72 grams
- Cocoa powder – 75 grams
- Sourdough discard – 56 grams
- All-purpose flour – 40 grams
- Baking soda – ⅛ teaspoon
- Cornstarch – 7 grams
- Kosher salt – 4 grams
- Chocolate chips – 100 grams
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)
Step 2: Cooking the Sourdough Discard Brownies
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, microwave the butter and sugar for about 2 minutes and whisk until smooth. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then whisk in the egg and egg yolks until glossy. Next, incorporate the cocoa powder and vegetable oil, followed by the sourdough discard ensuring no streaks remain. Carefully fold in the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt with a spatula. Stir in the chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assembling and Finishing
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for around 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top if desired. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares. Enjoy these delicious bites as a stand-alone dessert or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for the Best Sourdough Discard Brownies Every Time
- Use quality chocolate: It can enhance the overall flavor of your brownies.
- Avoid overmixing: This can lead to denser brownies, so stir ingredients until just combined.
- Check doneness: Use a toothpick to ensure they are baked perfectly without going dry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the cooling time: It may be tempting to slice right away, but cooling helps brownies set.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish
- Add nuts: Walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch.
- Mix in flavors: A dash of espresso powder can deepen the chocolate taste.
- Different chips: Try using white or dark chocolate chips for a unique twist.
Perfect Sides to Serve with Brownies
- A scoop of ice cream: Vanilla pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate flavor.
- Fresh berries: Raspberries or strawberries add a fresh contrast.
FAQs about Sourdough Discard Brownies
Sourdough discard brownies incorporate sourdough starter discard, which adds a subtle tanginess and depth to the chocolate flavor. This uniqueness sets them apart from traditional brownies, making them a delightful twist on a classic treat.
No, the sourdough discard lends a mild tang that enhances the chocolate and doesn’t make the brownies taste explicitly sour. It contributes to the overall richness and complexity of flavor.
This recipe uses 56 grams (or ¼ cup) of sourdough discard, which perfectly balances the chocolate richness with a hint of tanginess without overpowering the flavor.
Yes, you can use an active sourdough starter, but it may subtly alter the taste and texture. The discard is typically used to reduce waste and add a unique flavor profile.
All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe as it provides the right texture and crumb. It allows the sourdough discard and chocolate flavors to shine.
Conclusion
Creating sourdough discard brownies is a wonderful way to bring creativity into the kitchen and make use of your sourdough starter discard. Not only does it help in reducing food waste, but it also results in a deeply flavorful and fudgy dessert that’s sure to impress. Each bite of these brownies carries the essence of home and tradition, encouraging both seasoned bakers and newcomers to explore new culinary techniques.
If you’re looking for more delightful ways to use sourdough discard, consider trying our recipe for sourdough discard cookies. This delicious option offers another exciting way to enjoy baking with your starter.
We hope you enjoy making these sourdough discard brownies as much as we do. Don’t forget to leave a comment or share your creations. Happy baking!
