Gooey Sourdough Brownies

Name: Gooey Sourdough Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup active sourdough starter; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chunks

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Collection

I absolutely love making these gooey sourdough brownies! There's something magical about transforming leftover sourdough into rich, decadent treats. The combination of the tangy sourdough starter with rich chocolate creates a unique depth of flavor that elevates the standard brownie to something truly special. Plus, the gooey texture from the melted chocolate chunks makes every bite a delightful experience. Whenever I make these brownies, they disappear in minutes, and I'm always asked for the recipe, proving just how irresistible they are!

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:21:35.032Z

I still remember the first time I experimented with sourdough in my brownies. It was a rainy afternoon, and I had some leftover starter that I didn't want to waste. I decided to try it out, and the results were phenomenal! The tanginess from the sourdough perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a flavor profile unlike any other. The brownies emerged from the oven with a glossy top and a perfect crackle.

Over the years, I've perfected my method, ensuring that every batch has that perfect blend of gooeyness and richness. I find that using high-quality chocolate makes all the difference in achieving that luxurious texture. If you’re unsure about the sourdough flavor, start with a little less and adjust according to your taste.

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor complemented by tangy sourdough
Irresistibly gooey texture that melts in your mouth
A unique twist on traditional brownies, perfect for sharing

The Role of Sourdough in Brownies

In these gooey brownies, the sourdough starter does more than just reduce waste; it adds a distinct tanginess that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the chocolate. This unique flavor profile enhances the overall experience, making each bite more complex. If you're wondering about the sourdough's moisture content, it helps to create that rich, chewy texture, ensuring the brownies don't dry out during baking.

Additionally, the natural fermentation process of the sourdough can contribute to a slight leavening effect, giving the brownies a lighter crumb. Just be sure to use an active starter, as a sluggish or inactive one may not provide the desired results. For best results, feed your sourdough starter 4-8 hours before using it in this recipe to ensure it's bubbly and full of life!

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

Achieving the perfect gooey texture in brownies can be tricky but rewarding. One key tip is to avoid over-baking. Start checking your brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time by inserting a toothpick into the center. You want the toothpick to come out with a few moist crumbs—this ensures they are set but still fudgy. Remember that brownies will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven due to residual heat, so it's wise to err on the side of underbaking.

Another tip is to use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chunks for an enhanced flavor. The better the ingredients, the richer the brownies will taste. If you're looking for variations, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch or swirling in peanut butter for a delightful twist. Just be cautious with add-ins, as too many can affect the balance of flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your gooey sourdough brownies.

For the Brownies

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup active sourdough starter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chunks

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your gooey sourdough brownies.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, whisking until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well. Finally, stir in the sourdough starter until fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Gently stir in the chocolate chunks.

Bake the Brownies

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Once you've followed these steps, get ready to indulge in your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. It enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These brownies can be made in advance and stored to enjoy later. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days, or you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut the brownies into squares and flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freeze-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen brownies, let them thaw in the refrigerator. If you prefer a warm, gooey texture, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds before serving. This method revives the fudgy, decadent character, making them taste freshly baked.

Serving Suggestions

These gooey sourdough brownies are delicious on their own but can be elevated with creative serving ideas. Consider topping them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The cold ice cream melts slightly into the warm brownie, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

For a sophisticated touch, drizzle them with homemade chocolate ganache or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Adding fresh berries can introduce a tartness that complements the rich chocolate, making it not just a visual treat but also a flavor-packed bite. Feel free to get creative with toppings—think crushed cookies, caramel sauce, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for an enhanced flavor experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different kind of flour?

Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free flour if necessary, but it may affect the texture.

→ How do I store leftover 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 place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What if my sourdough starter is not active?

Make sure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before using it in this recipe for the best results.