Sourdough Discard Brownies with Pecan Topping

Highlighted under: Baking Favorites

Indulge in the rich flavors of these Sourdough Discard Brownies, topped with crunchy pecans for a delightful twist. Perfect for using up that sourdough discard and satisfying your sweet tooth!

Lena

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-27T21:34:27.827Z

These brownies are a delicious way to use up your sourdough discard while enjoying a rich chocolate treat. The addition of pecans adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly.

Why You'll Love These Brownies

  • Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pecans
  • Perfectly fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
  • A creative way to use sourdough discard
  • Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo

The Perfect Brownie Base

Brownies are a beloved dessert that can be made in countless ways, but the foundation of a great brownie lies in its base. This recipe utilizes sourdough discard, giving these brownies a unique tang that beautifully complements the rich chocolate flavor. The addition of sourdough not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the moist and fudgy texture that every brownie lover craves. By incorporating sourdough, you're elevating a classic treat while also practicing sustainability by reducing waste.

The balance of ingredients in this recipe is crucial. The combination of butter and sugar creates a rich, gooey center, while the eggs add structure and moisture. The unsweetened cocoa powder delivers a deep chocolate flavor, making each bite a decadent experience. With the right mix of dry and wet ingredients, you'll achieve that perfect brownie consistency that is both soft and chewy.

Pecans: A Crunchy Contrast

The addition of pecans in these brownies introduces a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, fudgy texture. Pecans are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, providing healthy fats and protein. Toasting the pecans before folding them into the batter can enhance their flavor, adding an extra layer of richness to the brownies. This simple step transforms the dessert into a gourmet treat that will impress your family and friends.

Moreover, pecans bring a nutty sweetness that harmonizes with the chocolate, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. Whether you're a nut lover or not, the pecan topping elevates these brownies, making them irresistible. For those who prefer other nuts, feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds for a different twist!

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Sourdough Discard Brownies are not just a delicious dessert; they are versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, these brownies will fit right in. Their rich flavor and delightful texture make them a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that they will be devoured quickly.

They are also easy to transport, making them an excellent choice for potlucks, picnics, or bake sales. Cut them into bite-sized squares for easy sharing or serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. No matter how you enjoy them, these brownies are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Brownies

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

Mix the ingredients thoroughly before baking for the best results.

Instructions

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 large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, sourdough discard, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Add Eggs and Dry Ingredients

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, and stir until just combined.

Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped pecans for added crunch.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

These brownies are best served warm with a scoop of ice cream!

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Pro Tips

  • For extra decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled brownies before serving.

Tips for Perfect Brownies

To ensure your brownies come out perfectly every time, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and precise measurements can make a significant difference in the final product. Use a kitchen scale for the best results, especially when measuring flour and cocoa powder.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined to keep the brownies fudgy and moist. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which may not be as enjoyable. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Storing Your Brownies

Once your brownies have cooled, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. If you want to prolong their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy this treat whenever the craving strikes.

When ready to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds. This will bring back the fudgy texture and enhance the chocolate flavor, making them taste freshly baked!

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 leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Freeze the brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of pecans?

You can use walnuts, almonds, or omit nuts entirely if you prefer.

Sourdough Discard Brownies with Pecan Topping

Indulge in the rich flavors of these Sourdough Discard Brownies, topped with crunchy pecans for a delightful twist. Perfect for using up that sourdough discard and satisfying your sweet tooth!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Lena

Recipe Type: Baking Favorites

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 brownies

What You'll Need

For the Brownies

  1. 1 cup unsalted butter
  2. 2 cups granulated sugar
  3. 1 cup sourdough discard
  4. 4 large eggs
  5. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  6. 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  7. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  8. 1/2 tsp 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 large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, sourdough discard, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 03

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, and stir until just combined.

Step 04

Gently fold in the chopped pecans for added crunch.

Step 05

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 06

Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

Extra Tips

  1. For extra decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled brownies before 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