Thick Sourdough Fudge Brownies

Name: Thick Sourdough Fudge Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Favorites

I am thrilled to share my recipe for Thick Sourdough Fudge Brownies. These brownies strike the perfect balance between rich chocolate flavor and a delightful chewiness, thanks to the unique addition of sourdough. Baking with sourdough not only enhances the flavor but also lends a subtle tang that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate. I find that using a high-quality cocoa powder makes a world of difference in achieving the deepest chocolate flavor. Let’s get baking and indulge in these fudgy treats!

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-16T12:01:36.773Z

When I first experimented with adding sourdough to my brownie recipe, I didn't expect such an incredible result. The rich and fudgy texture, paired with a deliciously unique flavor, took these brownies to another level! My friends couldn't believe that sourdough was the secret ingredient behind this decadent treat.

One of my favorite tips is to let the brownies cool completely before cutting them. This ensures that they hold their shape and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, the wait is worth it when you get that perfect bite of chocolatey goodness!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with a hint of tang from sourdough
Fudgy texture that is irresistible
Perfect for sharing or satisfying your sweet tooth

Understanding the Role of Sourdough

Using sourdough starter in these brownies introduces a complex layer of flavor. The fermentation process not only lends a slight tang but also contributes to a moist, fudgy texture. This might seem unconventional for a brownie, but it works marvelously. My advice is to ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before using it; this ensures that the natural yeast and bacteria can work their magic in the baking process.

Additionally, the acidity from the sourdough reacts with the baking soda present in your ingredients, enhancing the leavening process. This results in a delightful rise that balances the dense, chocolatey goodness. If you're a bit hesitant about using sourdough, start with a smaller amount and gradually increase it until you find your perfect balance.

Perfecting Your Brownie Texture

Achieving the right texture in brownies can sometimes be tricky, but a few key techniques can elevate your results. Mixing the melted butter with the sugars until glossy is crucial; this step helps integrate the flavors and moisture evenly throughout your batter. Be careful not to overmix once you add the flour; folding it in gently until just combined ensures your brownies remain fudgy. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture, which is not what you want.

To achieve that coveted shiny top, try to let your batter rest for about 10-15 minutes before pouring it into the baking pan. This helps create a crinkly crust during baking. Keep an eye on them in the oven; brownies are done when the edges start pulling away from the pan and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, rather than wet batter.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Mix all the ingredients well to ensure a smooth batter.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Add the sourdough starter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until smooth.

Add Flour

Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy these rich and fudgy brownies with a scoop of ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar!

Pro Tips

For a deeper chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder. Also, always ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best results.

Storage Tips

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature for the best texture before indulging.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze these brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours, or microwave them for a warm treat.

Flavor Variations

While the classic version with just chocolate is heavenly, you can easily customize these brownies. For a nutty twist, fold in 1/2 cup of walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking. Alternatively, for a more decadent treat, try adding a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella on top before baking for a rich, gooey finish.

Another option is to replace some of the all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour for a gluten-free alternative. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, so it's a good idea to experiment with small batches first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with these brownies?

They go wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert.