Gooey Sourdough Brownies

Name: Gooey Sourdough Brownies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup sourdough starter (discard is fine); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I love making these Gooey Sourdough Brownies because they combine the rich, deep flavors of traditional brownies with a unique twist from sourdough. The balance of sweet and tangy gives each bite a delicious complexity that's hard to resist. Plus, the texture is incredibly fudgy, and the edges are perfectly chewy while the center is irresistibly gooey. It's a delightful way to use up sourdough discard, and these brownies are always a hit at gatherings or just for a treat at home.

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:55:35.179Z

When I first decided to bake these Gooey Sourdough Brownies, I was skeptical about how the sourdough starter would integrate into a traditional brownie recipe. But after a bit of experimenting with ratios, I discovered that it enhances the flavor beautifully and gives a slight tang that makes each bite memorable.

I used a combination of semi-sweet chocolate and cocoa powder, which create that deep chocolate experience we all crave. The key is to not overbake them; pulling them out slightly early ensures that gooey center and fudgy texture that I adore. These brownies are a true indulgence!

Why You Will Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with tangy sourdough goodness
Incredible fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for sharing or savoring on your own

Understanding Sourdough in Brownies

Using sourdough starter not only adds a unique flavor profile but also contributes to the texture of the brownies. The natural fermentation process in sourdough creates organic acids that interact with the chocolate, enhancing its richness. This interaction results in a deeper complexity that traditional brownies lack. When you mix in the sourdough, ensure it’s at room temperature for a smoother incorporation into the batter.

Moreover, the sourdough adds moisture, which is vital for achieving that gooey center. Don't worry if you’re using sourdough discard; it's perfect for this recipe and prevents food waste. Just remember that different starters may vary in consistency, so you might need to adjust the flour slightly if the batter seems too runny or thick.

Tips for the Perfect Texture

Baking time is crucial for achieving that perfect gooey texture. Keep a close eye on the brownies, especially after the 20-minute mark. They're done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. If you bake them too long, you'll lose that fudgy quality, so check early to prevent overbaking.

For an extra layer of texture, try sprinkling some chocolate chips or nuts on top just before baking. This creates a beautiful, textured crust and adds an appealing aesthetic to your brownie. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also swirl in a layer of peanut butter or caramel for an additional flavor burst, adding complexity and richness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup sourdough starter (discard is fine)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Make sure everything is at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Melt the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely and then remove it from heat.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and stir in the vanilla.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, blend the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Add Sourdough and Chocolate Chips

Fold in the sourdough starter until fully incorporated, then add the chocolate chips.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.

Enjoy your gooey brownies warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top just before baking. This enhances the chocolate taste beautifully.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You might want to place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking, to keep them from sticking together. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can freeze well for up to three months.

When you're ready to serve, allow frozen brownies to thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm them up in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that fudgy quality. Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat!

Possible Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate! Using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet can deepen the richness, while white chocolate can add a sweet contrast. If you want to include a fruitier note, add some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Dried cherries or raspberries can provide a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness.

If you're looking to make these brownies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum to help with binding. This adaptation maintains the fudgy texture while accommodating those with gluten sensitivities.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly.

→ What can I substitute for chocolate chips?

You can use chopped nuts or dried fruit for a different texture and flavor.

→ How can I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

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