Sourdough Discard Brownies with Maple Glaze

Name: Sourdough Discard Brownies with Maple Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup sourdough discard; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1-2 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Baking Favorites

Delight in the rich flavors of Sourdough Discard Brownies topped with a luscious maple glaze. This recipe transforms sourdough discard into a decadent treat that every chocolate lover will adore.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-27T18:04:27.534Z

These Sourdough Discard Brownies are a delightful way to utilize leftover sourdough starter, delivering a rich chocolate flavor with a hint of tanginess. Topped with a sweet maple glaze, they are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering or a cozy night in.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with a subtle sourdough tang
Moist and fudgy texture that satisfies chocolate cravings
Easy to make with minimal ingredients and equipment

      

The Perfect Use for Sourdough Discard

If you're a sourdough enthusiast, you know the struggle of dealing with sourdough discard. Instead of tossing it away, why not transform it into something delicious? This Sourdough Discard Brownies recipe is a fantastic way to utilize that leftover starter. Not only does it help reduce waste, but it also adds a unique depth of flavor to your brownies. The subtle tang from the sourdough pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate, creating an irresistible dessert.

Using sourdough discard in baking is a game-changer. It enhances the overall texture and moisture of the brownies, resulting in a fudgy treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, this recipe is incredibly simple, making it a great option for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Embrace the versatility of sourdough and elevate your dessert game with this delightful recipe!

Tips for the Best Brownies

To achieve the perfect brownies, it's crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale if possible for the most precise results. When it comes to mixing, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.

Another key tip is to let the brownies cool slightly before glazing. This allows the glaze to set nicely without sliding off. If you want an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter. These additions can enhance the texture and elevate the overall taste of your brownies.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once you've baked your Sourdough Discard Brownies, storing them properly is essential to maintain their moist and fudgy texture. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience by pairing them with ice cream or whipped cream. A scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate sauce creates the ultimate indulgent dessert. For a breakfast treat, serve them warm with a drizzle of maple syrup for a delightful twist!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delectable brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup sourdough discard
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Maple Glaze Ingredients

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1-2 tablespoons milk

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious 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 bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Stir in the sourdough discard, followed by the eggs and vanilla extract until well mixed.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake

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

Prepare Maple Glaze

While the brownies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if necessary.

Glaze the Brownies

Once the brownies are done, let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Drizzle the maple glaze over the brownies once cooled.

Slice and Serve

Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious Sourdough Discard Brownies!

These brownies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Benefits of Sourdough

Sourdough bread is renowned for its health benefits, and using sourdough discard in baking can carry some of those advantages into desserts. The fermentation process involved in making sourdough helps to break down gluten, making it easier to digest than regular flour. This means that your brownies may be a bit lighter on the stomach while still providing that rich chocolate flavor.

Additionally, sourdough discard contains beneficial bacteria and probiotics, which can contribute to gut health. While brownies might not be a health food per se, incorporating sourdough discard can add a touch of nutrition to your indulgence, making each bite a little more guilt-free.

Variations to Try

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize your brownies to suit your taste preferences. For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter. If you’re a fan of caramel, swirl in some caramel sauce before baking for a gooey surprise. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, to change the flavor profile.

For a fun twist, try adding spices like cinnamon or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. These subtle additions can take your brownies from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a unique dessert that your friends and family will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes, you can use active sourdough starter, but it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What can I substitute for powdered sugar in the glaze?

You can use regular granulated sugar, but the glaze may not be as smooth.