Sourdough Discard Brownies with Pecan Topping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Deliciously fudgy brownies made with sourdough discard and topped with crunchy pecans.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-27T23:10:27.731Z

These Sourdough Discard Brownies are a delicious way to reduce food waste while enjoying a rich chocolate treat. The pecan topping adds a delightful crunch, making these brownies a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Why You'll Love These Brownies

  • Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pecans
  • Utilizes sourdough discard for a unique twist
  • Fudgy texture that satisfies chocolate cravings
  • Perfect for sharing with friends and family

A Unique Twist on Classic Brownies

Brownies are a beloved dessert, but these Sourdough Discard Brownies elevate the classic recipe to new heights. By incorporating sourdough discard, you not only reduce food waste but also add a subtle tang that beautifully complements the rich chocolate flavor. This twist transforms a simple dessert into something extraordinary, making it a talking point at any gathering.

The fudgy texture of these brownies is a dream come true for any chocolate lover. With the right balance of ingredients, they are moist, decadent, and satisfyingly chewy. Each bite delivers a burst of rich chocolate, enhanced by the crunch of pecans on top. It's a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a gathering, attending a potluck, or simply craving something sweet, these brownies are the perfect choice. Their fudgy goodness appeals to both kids and adults alike, making them a versatile dessert for any occasion. Plus, they are easy to make in large batches, ensuring there's enough to share with everyone.

These brownies also make a great homemade gift. Wrapped up nicely, they can be a thoughtful present for friends and family, especially during holiday seasons or special celebrations. Who wouldn't appreciate a delicious batch of brownies made with care?

Tips for the Best Brownies

To ensure your Sourdough Discard Brownies turn out perfectly, use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate for the best flavor. sifting the cocoa powder can help eliminate any lumps, resulting in a smoother batter. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter once you've added the dry ingredients to maintain that coveted fudgy texture.

Don't forget to let your brownies cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. This step allows them to set properly, making it easier to achieve clean cuts. If you're looking for an extra indulgence, consider serving these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—an irresistible combination!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup sourdough discard
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Melt Butter and Mix Ingredients

In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, sourdough discard, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Add Pecans

Fold in the chopped pecans, reserving a handful for topping.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the reserved pecans on top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious brownies!

Storage Tips

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. To keep them fresh, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them. Cut the brownies into squares, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container.

When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw the brownies at room temperature for a couple of hours, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat. This makes it easy to have a delicious dessert on hand whenever the craving strikes!

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your brownies by adding different mix-ins. Chocolate chips, caramel swirls, or even dried fruits like cherries or cranberries can take these brownies to another level. Experimenting with flavors is part of the fun, so get creative and make them your own.

For an even richer taste, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top once the brownies have cooled. This decadent addition will make your brownies even more indulgent and impressive—perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself!

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Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of pecans?

You can substitute walnuts or omit nuts altogether if desired.

Sourdough Discard Brownies with Pecan Topping

Deliciously fudgy brownies made with sourdough discard and topped with crunchy pecans.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 brownies

What You'll Need

Brownie Ingredients

  1. 1 cup unsalted butter
  2. 2 cups granulated sugar
  3. 1 cup sourdough discard
  4. 4 large eggs
  5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  6. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  7. 1 cup cocoa powder
  8. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  9. 1 cup chopped pecans

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, sourdough discard, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.

Step 03

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 04

Fold in the chopped pecans, reserving a handful for topping.

Step 05

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the reserved pecans on top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 06

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

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g