Crispy Edge Sourdough Brownies

Name: Crispy Edge Sourdough Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 cup sourdough starter, fed; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Recipes

I absolutely love to experiment with recipes that blend traditional baking with a twist. These Crispy Edge Sourdough Brownies are a perfect example of that delightful fusion! The combination of sourdough starter adds a unique tangy flavor that's beautifully complemented by rich chocolate. They have a wonderfully crispy edge and a fudgy center, making them an unforgettable treat. Whenever I whip up a batch, the aroma that fills my kitchen draws everyone in, and I can't resist sharing them with family and friends!

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:58:36.323Z

When I first decided to incorporate sourdough into brownies, I was skeptical but excited. After a few trials, I found the perfect balance where the sourdough enhances the chocolate without overpowering it. The crispy edges come from using a hot, preheated pan that allows the outer layer to form a delightful crust. It’s a game-changer for texture!

Another key tip is to not overmix the batter. This keeps your brownies fudgy in the middle while still achieving those perfectly crisp edges. Each bite is a comforting combination of flavors and textures, leaving you wanting more!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Unique tanginess from sourdough adds depth to the chocolate flavor
Crispy edges paired with a soft, fudgy center create a delightful contrast
Great way to use leftover sourdough starter

Mastering the Sourdough Base

The sourdough starter plays a crucial role in these brownies, contributing not just flavor but also texture. Using a well-fed sourdough starter ensures that the brownies will rise appropriately and achieve that perfect fudgy center. If your starter hasn’t been fed recently, you can 'wake it up' by feeding it a day before baking. This preparation allows more yeast activity, further enhancing the flavor profile, which is essential for a well-balanced treat.

While the traditional brownie ingredients are simple, the addition of sourdough adds a layer of complexity. If you don't have a starter on hand, you can create a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 cup of water, then letting it sit at room temperature for a few hours. However, do note that the unique tanginess from fermented sourdough will be missing, making it a less authentic experience.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

When it comes to baking these brownies, timing is vital. Overbaking can lead to dry edges, while underbaking may cause them to fall apart. Aim for a baking time of about 30 minutes, but start checking at 25 minutes, inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating a perfectly fudgy brownie with that signature crispy edge. Visual cues, such as the edges pulling slightly away from the pan, also indicate they are ready.

To enhance the chocolate intensity, consider using high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips. The richer the chocolate, the more decadent the brownies will taste. If you're interested in a lighter option, replace half the butter with applesauce; this keeps the brownies moist, though they may not have that crispy edge you desire. Experimenting with the cocoa-darkness and sugar ratios can also yield surprisingly delightful results.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Cutting these brownies while they are still warm provides a soft, gooey center ideal for serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more structured presentation, allow them to cool completely before slicing. Once cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, and the flavors will continue to develop, making them even more enjoyable later on.

For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will hold up well for about three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them gently in the microwave, staying cautious not to dry them out. This makes them a perfect make-ahead treat for gatherings!

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup sourdough starter, fed
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly for delicious results!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and sourdough starter. Mix until smooth.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Stir in eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract, blending until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. If desired, fold in chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy the crispy edges!

Enjoy these delicious brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Flavor Enhancements

If you're looking to jazz up your brownies further, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor without adding any coffee taste. Another great addition is a swirl of peanut butter or nutella on top before baking. This not only enhances the visual appeal but adds a creamy depth that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. Just use a knife to swirl it in lightly, being sure not to overmix.

For a more adventurous flavor combination, try adding a hint of orange zest or a splash of almond extract for a unique twist. These additions will kindly contrast the richness of the chocolate and expand on the brownies' complexity. Always remember that a little goes a long way; just a teaspoon can transform your recipe.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your brownies come out too dry, it's often an indication of overbaking. To check for doneness effectively, try pressing the center gently; if it springs back, they are done. If you find them too wet, you may need to reevaluate your baking time or check your oven calibration, as home ovens can frequently vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer for accurate readings.

Additionally, if your brownies don’t seem to have the crispy edges you desire, make sure your baking pan is adequately greased, or consider using parchment paper for easy removal and better texture all around. If you've made substitutions, like using applesauce, they may lose that desirable textural contrast, so keep that in mind for future batches.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

→ What can I substitute for sourdough starter?

You can use an equal amount of buttermilk or yogurt, but the flavor will differ slightly.