Nutty Chocolate Sourdough Brownies

Name: Nutty Chocolate Sourdough Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1 cup sourdough starter (discard is fine); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: SugarAlchemy Kitchen

I absolutely love making Nutty Chocolate Sourdough Brownies! The wonderful combination of earthy sourdough mixed with rich chocolate and crunchy nuts creates a delightful treat that’s hard to resist. When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed by how the sourdough added depth and a unique tanginess to the brownies. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, these brownies come together beautifully, resulting in a gooey, fudgy delight that’s perfect for sharing or indulging on a cozy evening.

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-01-27T10:45:28.342Z

When I first tried my hand at baking brownies with sourdough, I didn’t anticipate how well the flavors would meld. What I discovered was a delightful texture that balances between fudgy and chewy, guaranteeing a rich experience with every bite. I recommend letting the brownies cool completely before cutting, as they hold their shape much better, resulting in perfect squares that are sure to impress.

Moreover, the addition of chopped nuts provides an unexpected crunch that complements the softness of the chocolate perfectly. It’s a versatile recipe that can be tweaked by adding your favorite nuts or even a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, you’ll be making these over and over!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty undertones
Fudgy texture that satisfies every chocolate lover
Unique sourdough twist that sets them apart

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the perfect fudgy texture in brownies is crucial, especially for these Nutty Chocolate Sourdough Brownies. By using a combination of sourdough starter and both granulated and brown sugars, you create a moist base that enhances the chewiness. Be careful not to overmix the batter once you've incorporated the dry ingredients; you want to combine them until just mixed to avoid dense brownies. This technique ensures a light rise and allows the flavors to meld beautifully during baking.

When baking, it's essential to watch for visual cues. The edges of the brownies should appear set, while the center remains slightly underbaked, which leads to that gooey, soft interior. Using a toothpick to test for doneness is your best bet; it should come out with a few moist crumbs—this indicates that the brownies are perfect. If you accidentally overbake them, you may lose that desirable fudginess, so set a timer and check a couple of minutes early.

Ingredient Insights

The usage of sourdough starter in these brownies plays a vital role beyond just adding flavor. It contributes to the structure and moisture of the batter without the need for additional liquid. This can be particularly beneficial if you're working with thick batter. If you don't have sourdough starter on hand, an easy substitute is unsweetened applesauce; however, it will alter the flavor profile slightly and might yield a less tangy end result.

Another important ingredient is cocoa powder, as it gives these brownies their rich chocolaty essence. Opting for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder can elevate the taste significantly, as lower quality varieties tend to introduce a chalky texture. Experimenting with Dutch-processed cocoa could lend a smoother color and a more rounded flavor, although it may affect the final product’s rise due to its neutral pH.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delectable Nutty Chocolate Sourdough Brownies.

Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup sourdough starter (discard is fine)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

These ingredients will help you achieve the perfect brownie texture and flavor!

Instructions

Let’s get started on these delightful brownies!

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and sourdough starter. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Add Nuts

Fold in the chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed within the batter.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack, then cut into squares and enjoy!

Easy enough for beginners, yet delicious enough to impress any guest!

Pro Tips

Chilling the brownies in the fridge for a couple of hours after baking intensifies the chocolate flavor and makes them even fudgier.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Nutty Chocolate Sourdough Brownies when serving, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of warm, fudgy brownies with the cold creaminess of ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience. Drizzling some salted caramel sauce on top can also enhance the flavor profile, making each bite even more indulgent.

If you're feeling adventurous, try serving these brownies with a side of fresh berries. The tartness of strawberries or raspberries adds a refreshing complement to the rich chocolate flavor, balancing out the sweetness while also adding vibrant color to your presentation. Additionally, sprinkling a bit of sea salt on top before serving can intensify the chocolate flavor while adding a pleasant crunch.

Storage Tips

These brownies, when properly stored, can stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. To maintain their texture, wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. If you live in a warmer climate, it’s best to keep them in the refrigerator, as the butter can cause them to soften too much at room temperature.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the brownies. You can cut them into squares and layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container, then freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds for a warm, fudgy treat without losing any flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it's a 1:1 replacement.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or any nuts of your choice to customize the recipe.

→ What can I use instead of sourdough starter?

You can use plain yogurt or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute, but the flavor will differ slightly.