Sourdough Discard Brownies with Pecan Topping

Name: Sourdough Discard Brownies with Pecan Topping
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup sourdough discard; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup chopped pecans; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon melted butter

Highlighted under: Cozy Dessert Classics

These Sourdough Discard Brownies are a delightful way to use up extra sourdough starter, featuring a rich chocolate flavor and a crunchy pecan topping.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-27T19:54:27.456Z

These brownies not only satisfy your chocolate cravings but also help reduce food waste by using sourdough discard. The pecan topping adds a delightful crunch, making them perfect for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pecans
Perfectly moist and fudgy texture
Eco-friendly way to use sourdough discard
Ideal for sharing with friends or family

      

Sourdough Discard: A Sustainable Choice

Using sourdough discard in your baking is not only a creative way to reduce waste, but it also adds a unique depth of flavor to your recipes. Many home bakers find themselves with extra starter after feeding their sourdough culture, and these brownies are an excellent way to utilize that leftover starter. By incorporating sourdough discard, you can enjoy a delicious treat while contributing to a more sustainable kitchen.

The slight tanginess from the sourdough starter complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully, resulting in a decadent brownie that stands out from traditional recipes. This eco-friendly approach to baking not only helps the environment but also offers your family and friends a delightful dessert that they will love.

Perfectly Fudgy Brownies

Achieving the perfect fudgy brownie can often feel like a challenge, but this recipe simplifies the process. The combination of melted butter and sugar creates a moist and rich base, while the addition of eggs ensures a soft, chewy texture. The key to the fudgy consistency lies in the balance of ingredients, and our recipe delivers just that.

Additionally, folding in the sourdough discard adds moisture and complexity, making these brownies truly irresistible. As they bake, the edges crisp up while the center remains delectably soft, resulting in a brownie that is perfect for any chocolate lover. Whether enjoyed on their own or served with a scoop of ice cream, these brownies are sure to satisfy your cravings.

A Crunchy Pecan Topping

The pecan topping is a delightful addition to these brownies, enhancing both the texture and flavor. Chopped pecans provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy brownie base. This simple yet effective topping elevates the overall experience, making each bite a harmonious blend of creamy chocolate and nutty goodness.

To prepare the pecan topping, it only takes a few minutes to mix the chopped nuts with brown sugar and melted butter. This mixture not only adds sweetness but also helps the pecans toast slightly during baking, intensifying their flavor. The crunchy topping is not just for aesthetics; it offers a delicious textural contrast that makes these brownies even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

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

For the Pecan Topping

1 cup chopped pecans
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon melted butter

Mix well and pour into a greased baking dish!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix Everything Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the sourdough discard.

Prepare the Pecan Topping

In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter.

Assemble and Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the top. Bake for 25 minutes.

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious brownies!

Storing and Serving

After baking, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This helps them set properly and makes for cleaner cuts. Once cut, these brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week, if you prefer them chilled.

For an extra indulgent treat, serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They make for a perfect dessert at gatherings or a delightful afternoon snack. Your friends and family will undoubtedly appreciate this unique twist on a classic treat.

Variations to Try

While the original recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize these brownies to suit your tastes. Consider adding chocolate chips or chunks for an extra dose of chocolatey goodness. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to add a unique flavor profile.

For a more adventurous twist, try incorporating a swirl of peanut butter or caramel into the brownie batter before baking. This will create a delightful marbled effect and enhance the richness of the brownies. Whatever variations you choose, these brownies are sure to impress.

The Joy of Baking with Friends

Baking is an enjoyable and rewarding activity that can be even more fun when shared with friends or family. Gather your loved ones for a baking session where everyone can pitch in, from mixing the batter to preparing the pecan topping. This collaborative effort not only makes the process more enjoyable but also creates lasting memories.

Once baked, these brownies are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a potluck, or simply want to treat your neighbors, these brownies will surely be a hit. The joy of sharing delicious homemade treats is an experience that brings everyone together, creating a sense of community and warmth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, walnuts or almonds would also work well as a topping.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

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