Sourdough Brownies with Walnuts

Name: Sourdough Brownies with Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup sourdough starter (discard is great); 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup chopped walnuts; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first decided to combine my love for brownies with sourdough, I didn’t know what to expect. The result was a delightful surprise! These brownies are rich and fudgy, with bits of walnuts adding a satisfying crunch. The sourdough adds a depth of flavor that elevates the traditional brownie experience, making it the perfect treat to share with family and friends. If you're looking for a way to use leftover sourdough starter, this is the recipe for you; it transforms a simple dessert into something really special!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T12:02:28.657Z

When I first experimented with turning my sourdough starter into brownies, I was somewhat skeptical. Sourdough typically enhances bread, but in this case, it creates a wonderfully complex flavor profile that is far from expected. The depth of flavor in these brownies is incredible, especially with the added walnuts that give a satisfying crunch.

One technique I highlighted during my process was to let the batter sit for just a few minutes after mixing. This resting time allows the flour to hydrate fully, resulting in an even fudgier texture in the brownies. Trust me, it's worth the wait!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy walnuts
Unique depth of flavor from the sourdough
Fudgy texture that will satisfy any chocolate craving

Understanding the Role of Sourdough

Using sourdough starter in brownies not only adds a unique tangy flavor but also contributes to a moist and tender texture due to its fermentation properties. The acids and bacteria present in sourdough can enhance the chocolate taste, giving your brownies a rich, complex flavor profile that might surprise you. Experimenting with different hydration levels of the sourdough starter can result in varying textures, so feel free to adjust based on what you have on hand.

If you're concerned about the sourness, remember that the sweetness of the sugar and chocolate typically balances it out beautifully. The key is to ensure your starter is active and bubbly for the best results. If using older, stiffer starter, you may want to slightly increase the liquid ingredients to maintain the desired fudgy consistency.

Tips for Perfect Brownies

To achieve a fudgy brownie texture, it’s important not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined will help maintain that rich, dense quality. Overbaking is another common pitfall; keep an eye on the brownies after the 25-minute mark. They are done when the edges look set but the center still has a slight softness, as they will firm up as they cool.

For an added touch of richness, consider using high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate in addition to the unsweetened cocoa. By incorporating a combination of cocoa and melted chocolate, you can enhance the chocolate flavor without compromising the texture. Don't forget to allow the brownies to cool in the pan; this step is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sourdough starter (discard is great)
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 teaspoon salt

Make sure to measure all your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious sourdough brownies:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Melt Butter and Mix

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar until well combined. Let it cool slightly.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Once the mixture is cool, whisk in the eggs one at a time and then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Incorporate Sourdough Starter

Mix in the sourdough starter until fully combined, then fold in the chopped walnuts.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 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 about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Make sure to enjoy these brownies warm or at room temperature for the best taste!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the brownies before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These sourdough brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, cut the brownies into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste.

If you want to prepare the batter ahead of time, you can mix everything up to the point before pouring it into the baking dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking to achieve even cooking.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize these brownies with your favorite add-ins. Chocolate chips, peanut butter swirls, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before baking can elevate the flavor even further. For a festive twist, try adding spices like cinnamon or a hint of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

When it comes time to serve, these brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also serve them warm, drizzled with a homemade chocolate ganache or caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert. They make great gifts when cut into neat squares and wrapped up with a ribbon!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition!

→ What can I use instead of walnuts?

You can substitute walnuts with pecans or even chocolate chips for a different flavor.

→ How do I store these 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 place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.