Sourdough Discard Brownies with Cream Cheese

Name: Sourdough Discard Brownies with Cream Cheese
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 all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup sourdough discard; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

Delight in the rich, fudgy goodness of these Sourdough Discard Brownies with Cream Cheese, perfect for using up your sourdough discard and satisfying your sweet tooth.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-27T20:26:27.849Z

These Sourdough Discard Brownies are an innovative way to use your sourdough starter leftovers. The addition of cream cheese creates a silky smooth texture that elevates the traditional brownie to a new level. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat at home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy cream cheese swirl
Perfect way to use up sourdough discard without wasting
Fudgy texture that satisfies chocolate cravings
Great for sharing with friends and family

      

The Perfect Use for Sourdough Discard

If you love baking with sourdough, you’re likely familiar with the challenge of managing sourdough discard. Instead of tossing it away, why not transform it into something decadent? These Sourdough Discard Brownies are a brilliant way to utilize what would otherwise be waste. The addition of sourdough not only reduces food waste but also adds a subtle tanginess that enhances the overall flavor profile of the brownies.

Incorporating sourdough discard into your baking can elevate your confections in unexpected ways. The natural fermentation process of sourdough contributes to a moist, fudgy texture that is hard to resist. This recipe is a perfect example of how you can create something delicious while being mindful of your ingredients. It’s a win-win situation for both your taste buds and the environment.

Rich and Fudgy Texture

One of the standout features of these brownies is their rich, fudgy texture. Unlike traditional cake-like brownies, these have a more dense and moist consistency, thanks to the combination of butter, sugar, and sourdough discard. The cocoa powder adds a deep chocolate flavor that is sure to satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings. Each bite melts in your mouth, making them the perfect indulgence for any occasion.

The fudginess of the brownies is further enhanced by the cream cheese swirl. As the brownies bake, the cream cheese mixture creates a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the chocolate base. This delightful combination not only adds visual appeal but also a layer of richness that takes these brownies to the next level. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or a decadent dessert, these brownies are sure to impress.

Perfect for Sharing

These Sourdough Discard Brownies make a fantastic treat for gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a party, heading to a potluck, or simply want to share a sweet surprise with friends and family, these brownies are a hit. Their visually appealing cream cheese swirl makes them look as good as they taste, and they’re easy to slice into perfect portions for sharing.

Moreover, the recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any specialized skills, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers alike. You can whip up a batch quickly, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. And who wouldn’t appreciate a homemade dessert that uses up your sourdough discard while delivering on flavor and texture?

Ingredients

Brownie Base

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

Cream Cheese Swirl

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Make the Brownie Batter

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Then mix in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined.

Fold in the sourdough discard until well incorporated.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top and use a knife to swirl it into the brownie batter.

Bake the Brownies

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.

Storage Tips

To keep your Sourdough Discard Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to a week. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy their fudgy texture.

If you want to store them for an even longer period, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Variations and Add-ins

While the basic recipe for these brownies is incredibly satisfying, feel free to get creative with add-ins. Consider stirring in chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for an extra flavor boost. You can also experiment with different types of cocoa powder to achieve a unique taste.

For a more decadent treat, try adding a layer of caramel or peanut butter between the brownie base and cream cheese swirl. These variations can elevate your brownies and make them even more irresistible, allowing you to tailor them to your personal preferences or the tastes of your guests.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be served alone, but for an even more indulgent experience, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess complements the fudgy texture of the brownies beautifully, creating a delightful contrast.

You might also want to drizzle some chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for added visual appeal. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these brownies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making them a perfect addition to any dessert table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes, just make sure it's active and bubbly for best results.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing to maintain freshness.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese as alternatives, but the flavor and texture may vary.