Sponge Cake Sourdough Brownies

Name: Sponge Cake Sourdough Brownies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Indulgent Dessert Recipes

I absolutely love the unique twist on traditional brownies that this recipe offers. Incorporating sourdough into a sponge cake base creates a delightful texture that balances out the rich chocolatey goodness. By using my homemade sourdough starter, the flavor deepens and becomes more complex. These brownies are perfect for any occasion, and I often find myself reaching for them when I want something a little different from classic desserts.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T12:46:27.888Z

I've experimented with various brownie recipes over the years, but adding sourdough to the mix truly elevated my baked goods. The sponge cake texture adds an airy quality that contrasts beautifully with the dense chocolate. The sourdough gives a subtle tang that surprises everyone during tastings!

One tip I discovered through trial and error is to allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them. This not only helps maintain their structure but also enhances the flavor as the brownies set. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Unique blend of sourdough and chocolate for a delightful flavor
Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfectly moist, making them irresistible for dessert lovers

      

The Role of Sourdough

In this Sponge Cake Sourdough Brownies recipe, the sourdough starter is not just an additive; it plays a crucial role in both flavor and texture. The lactic acid from the fermentation process enhances the chocolate flavor, balancing the sweetness and adding depth. This creates a more sophisticated taste profile compared to traditional brownies, making them stand out. If your starter is particularly strong or tangy, you may want to reduce the sugar slightly to achieve the perfect balance.

In addition to flavor, the sourdough affects the brownies’ texture. The natural fermentation process helps the brownies rise slightly, resulting in an airy sponge-like consistency. Ensure your starter is active and bubbly for the best results. If you're using a younger starter, consider letting it sit at room temperature for a few hours before mixing it into the batter to amplify its bubbling capacity.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Brownie

Getting the baking time just right is essential for achieving that coveted fudge-like texture. I recommend checking the brownies a few minutes before the 25-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. This ensures they remain soft and fudgy rather than dry and crumbly. If they bake for too long, you can wrap them in foil while they cool to help retain some moisture.

Another key technique is leveling the batter in your baking pan. When you pour the batter into the greased 9x9 inch pan, use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring that it bakes uniformly. This can prevent some parts from being undercooked while others become overbaked. If you like a gooier center, consider making them in a slightly smaller pan to keep the thickness and adjust bake time accordingly.

Ingredients

For the Sourdough Brownies

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, sourdough starter, and vanilla extract.

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into a greased 9x9 inch baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra chocolatey flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter. They melt beautifully and enhance the richness of the brownies.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for different occasions. I love pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant presentation or drizzle some chocolate sauce for added richness.

For a fun twist, consider adding toppings such as crushed nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall chocolate experience. You could also experiment with a hint of espresso powder mixed into the batter to amplify the chocolate flavor even further.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Once cooled, these brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week, or even frozen. To freeze, cut them into squares and layer them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or leave them at room temperature for a few hours.

If you plan on making these brownies ahead of time for an event, I recommend baking them a day in advance. This allows the flavors to develop even further. Just be sure to cool them completely before storing to prevent them from becoming soggy. Before serving, you can warm them slightly in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked feel.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for sourdough starter?

If you don’t have sourdough starter, you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk, adjusting the flour content slightly.