Gooey Sourdough Brownies

Name: Gooey Sourdough Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup sourdough starter (active or discard); 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Ideas

I absolutely love baking, and these Gooey Sourdough Brownies quickly became one of my favorite treats! The unique twist of incorporating sourdough starter adds a delightful tang that balances beautifully with the rich chocolate flavor. Each bite is fudgy and decadent, creating an indulgent experience that is perfect for sharing—or keeping all to myself! I'm excited to guide you through the process so you can enjoy these incredible brownies too!

Created by

Unity Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:19:35.109Z

When I first experimented with sourdough in sweet recipes, I was amazed at the results. These brownies took it to a whole new level of deliciousness! The sourdough gives a soft chewiness that contrasts perfectly with the rich chocolate. I also noticed that letting the mixture sit for a bit helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more complex taste.

One of my favorite parts of making these brownies is watching them rise in the oven. The scent that wafts through the kitchen is irresistible. If you want to add a bit of flair, try mixing in some nuts or chocolate chips before baking—trust me, it’s worth it!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor balanced with a hint of tang from sourdough
Fudgy texture that satisfies every chocolate craving
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a personal treat

      

Unlocking the Magic of Sourdough

Incorporating sourdough starter into brownies not only adds a delightful tang but also enriches the texture. The natural fermentation process in sourdough introduces unique flavors that set these brownies apart from traditional recipes. It’s this complexity that enhances the indulgent, chocolatey experience, allowing the richness to shine while keeping the overall profile balanced and intriguing. If you’re using discard sourdough, don't worry about flavor loss; it will still contribute to the fudgy consistency.

Additionally, when using a sourdough starter, the moisture content increases, leading to a denser brownie. This means you might notice a slight variation in baking time if you make a batch with a particularly wet starter. Keep an eye on the baking process and perform the toothpick test earlier than suggested if your starter is very active. You want delicious brownies that are set but still have that signature gooey center.

Customizing Your Brownies

Feel free to experiment with the type of chocolate chips you fold into your batter. Semi-sweet is classic, but you could try dark chocolate chips for an intense chocolate experience, or even white chocolate for a contrast in flavor. Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking; this will accentuate the cocoa and make each bite even more irresistible. For a fun twist, toss in some chopped nuts or even crushed cookies to add texture and surprise to the brownies.

If you want to make these brownies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal measure of a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum for the best texture. I also recommend double-checking the chocolate chips for any hidden gluten, as some brands may include it as a stabilizer. These adjustments will allow anyone to enjoy a gooey treat without missing out on flavor or texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start making your delicious brownies!

Ingredients

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

Make sure to properly measure your ingredients for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your gooey brownies.

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, stirring until well blended. Add in the sourdough starter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips if desired.

Bake the Brownies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm for an extra gooey texture!

Let the brownies cool completely for best results before cutting into them!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Storage Tips

These Gooey Sourdough Brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing the brownies. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

To maintain their fudgy texture, avoid stacking the brownies while they are still warm. Instead, allow them to cool fully before transferring them into your storage container. This will help keep them from sticking together and preserve that delightful gooey quality that makes them memorable.

Serving Suggestions

For an indulgent experience, serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of hot, fudgy brownie against cold, creamy ice cream is simply divine. You might also drizzle a bit of salted caramel or chocolate sauce over the top for an elegant touch. Adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or fresh fruit can elevate the presentation while complementing the richness of the brownies.

If you want to make these brownies a part of a dessert spread, consider pairing them with fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a coffee or espresso pour-over. These pairings enhance the overall flavor experience and create a beautifully balanced dessert table that showcases your baking prowess!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use my sourdough discard for this recipe?

Yes, sourdough discard works perfectly for these brownies!

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to the brownies for extra flavor?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter for a delicious variation!