Description
This rich and fudgy brownies recipe combines the deep flavor of semi-sweet chocolate and cocoa powder with the unique addition of sourdough starter discard for extra moisture and a subtle tang. Smooth melted chocolate and butter create a luscious base, while a blend of sugars and eggs ensure a perfect, chewy texture. Baked to perfection in a 9×9-inch pan, these brownies are easy to make and ideal for any chocolate lover seeking a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Chocolate Mixture
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup dutched cocoa powder (or regular cocoa powder)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Batter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup sourdough starter discard
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and line a 9″ x 9″ baking dish with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and dutched cocoa powder, stirring until all the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Mix Eggs and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the two large eggs, egg yolk, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium-high speed for 7-10 minutes until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
- Combine Mixtures: Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the sourdough starter discard and the cooled chocolate mixture to the eggs and sugar. Beat gently until just combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Using a spatula, fold the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter will be thick.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack. This cooling step helps them set fully.
- Cut and Serve: Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 16 squares. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dutched cocoa powder if available.
- You can substitute the sourdough starter discard with an equal amount of applesauce if you prefer.
- Do not overbake; check at 35 minutes to avoid dry brownies.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a fudgier texture, slightly underbake and allow to cool completely before cutting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American