Sourdough Discard Brownies with Hazelnut Spread

Name: Sourdough Discard Brownies with Hazelnut Spread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup sourdough discard; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup hazelnut spread

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and nutty hazelnut spread, all while minimizing waste with sourdough discard.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-27T20:42:27.680Z

These Sourdough Discard Brownies with Hazelnut Spread are a delicious way to use up your sourdough starter leftovers. The rich chocolate flavor combined with the creamy hazelnut spread creates a decadent treat that everyone will love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty hazelnut spread
Perfectly fudgy texture that satisfies your sweet tooth
A great way to reduce food waste with sourdough discard
Simple and quick to make, ideal for any occasion

      

Sourdough Discard: A Sustainable Choice

Using sourdough discard in recipes like these brownies is a fantastic way to reduce food waste while still enjoying delicious treats. Many bakers often find themselves with excess sourdough starter after feeding their active cultures. Instead of tossing it out, you can transform it into delightful baked goods. This not only minimizes waste but also adds a unique depth of flavor to your dishes, making them stand out.

The tangy flavor profile of sourdough discard complements the sweetness of chocolate and hazelnut beautifully. As a result, you get a rich and complex taste that elevates your brownies to a new level. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to make the most of their baking ingredients without compromising on flavor or texture.

The Perfect Fudgy Texture

Achieving the perfect fudgy texture in brownies can be a challenge, but this recipe simplifies the process. By combining sourdough discard with the right balance of cocoa powder and butter, these brownies turn out irresistibly moist and rich. The addition of eggs helps bind the ingredients together while providing that classic brownie chewiness that everyone loves.

When baked correctly, these brownies will have a slightly crusty top layer with a soft and gooey interior. This delightful contrast makes them not only delicious but also visually appealing. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can enhance the flavor, creating a savory-sweet experience that will have your taste buds dancing.

Quick and Easy to Make

This sourdough discard brownie recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly quick to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you're craving something sweet, these brownies require minimal effort yet deliver maximum satisfaction.

Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, you'll find that this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. The ingredients are mixed in one bowl, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your tasty creation. Plus, the use of hazelnut spread adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates these brownies without complicating the process.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

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

Mix all ingredients well to create your brownie batter.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sourdough discard, sugar, cocoa powder, flour, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until just combined.

Add Hazelnut Spread

Fold in the hazelnut spread until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious brownies!

Serving Suggestions

These sourdough discard brownies are delightful on their own, but there are many ways to elevate your serving experience. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert that will impress your guests. The warmth of the brownies combined with the cold ice cream creates a heavenly contrast that everyone will love.

For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the brownies before serving. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts or additional hazelnut spread on top for added texture and flavor. Don't forget to serve them with a steaming cup of coffee or tea to complement the rich chocolatey notes!

Storage Tips

To keep your brownies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, but if you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

If you find yourself with leftovers, these brownies also freeze well. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. You’ll have a tasty treat ready to satisfy your sweet tooth anytime!

Variations to Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to experiment with different mix-ins to customize your brownies. For a fruity twist, consider adding chopped cherries or raspberries to the batter. These fruits can add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor, making for a delightful surprise in every bite.

Alternatively, you can incorporate different types of nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch. You can also swap out the hazelnut spread for almond or peanut butter to create a unique flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor your brownies to your personal taste preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter instead of hazelnut spread?

Yes, you can substitute hazelnut spread with almond butter or peanut butter, though the flavor will vary.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?

You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).