Sourdough Brownies with Sprinkles

Name: Sourdough Brownies with Sprinkles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup active sourdough discard; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips (optional); 1/2 cup sprinkles (for topping)

Highlighted under: Delicious Desserts Made Simple

I love making these Sourdough Brownies with Sprinkles because they combine the tangy flavor of sourdough with the rich, chocolatey goodness of brownies. Each bite delivers a hint of nostalgia, reminiscent of childhood desserts with the excitement of vibrant sprinkles. Baking these brownies not only minimizes waste by using sourdough discard, but it also yields a fudgy texture that's simply irresistible. The sprinkle topping adds a fun touch, making them perfect for celebrations or a delightful afternoon snack. They truly are a treat that can elevate any gathering or personal indulgence.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-27T12:53:27.764Z

When I first experimented with sourdough in my baking, I never imagined it would enhance my brownies so wonderfully. Using sourdough discard lends a subtle tang that perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate. I remember sharing these brownies at a gathering, and the joy on my friends' faces as they bit into the fudgy texture was priceless.

To ensure these brownies turn out perfectly every time, I emphasize not overmixing the batter, which helps maintain their rich consistency. The addition of sprinkles isn't just for fun—it creates a delightful crunch that balances the chewiness. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
The unique sourdough twist adds complexity to classic brownies.
Fudgy texture combined with the crunch of colorful sprinkles.
A great way to utilize sourdough discard while indulging your sweet tooth.

Mastering the Sourdough Brownie Batter

To achieve the perfect brownie texture, ensure your butter is fully melted but not boiling when mixing with granulated sugar. This helps create a glossy finish that translates into a fudgy final product. Mixing the wet ingredients thoroughly until smooth also integrates air, balancing out the density of the sourdough discard. The incorporation of this naturally fermented ingredient not only contributes a subtle tang but can also improve the brownies' overall moisture content.

When combining the dry ingredients, make sure to sift the cocoa powder to remove any lumps that could disrupt the smoothness of your batter. This step is crucial for even distribution of chocolate flavor throughout the brownies. If you want to enhance the chocolate experience further, consider using dark cocoa powder or a mixture of regular and dark cocoa for a more intense flavor profile.

Choosing and Using Sprinkles

The choice of sprinkles can greatly impact both the appearance and taste of your brownies. Opt for colorful jimmies or confetti sprinkles that hold up well during baking. Nonpareils might lose their shape, so it's best to save those for decoration after baking if you prefer that style. I love using rainbow sprinkles as they add a whimsical touch, especially for birthday celebrations or festive gatherings.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in a handful of flavored sprinkles, like chocolate or vanilla, into the batter before baking. This can elevate the overall taste and gives an unexpected twist to your brownies. Remember, the sprinkles should only be added on top before baking to maintain their color and texture.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup active sourdough discard
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
1/2 cup sprinkles (for topping)

Mix thoroughly and prepare for baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, mixing until well combined. Then add the sourdough discard, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until evenly incorporated.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the sprinkles on top and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra rich flavor, consider using high-quality dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder. And don't hesitate to customize the sprinkles based on the occasion—different colors can make these brownies a festive treat!

Storage and Freshness

To keep your Sourdough Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to preserve them longer, consider freezing the brownies. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain optimal flavor and texture for about three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen brownies, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a warm treat, you can briefly reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive their fudginess while the sprinkles keep their vibrant colors.

Variations to Explore

There are countless ways to customize these Sourdough Brownies! For a nutty twist, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and richness. You can also swirl in some peanut butter or Nutella before baking for an indulgent layer of flavor. Experimenting with flavored extracts, like almond or orange, can also create a unique twist on the classic recipe.

If you want to reduce sugar or explore healthier alternatives, you can substitute half of the granulated sugar with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas. This will yield a slightly different but still delicious brownie. Just ensure to adjust the flour content slightly to maintain the desired thickness of the batter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the sourdough discard with something else?

Yes, you can use applesauce or yogurt, but it will alter the flavor and texture slightly.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Try incorporating nuts, peanut butter swirls, or additional flavor extracts like almond or mint for a unique twist!