Sourdough Brownies with Peanut Butter

Name: Sourdough Brownies with Peanut Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup active sourdough starter; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Heavenly Dessert Creations

I couldn’t believe how well sourdough could elevate a classic brownie recipe until I made these Sourdough Brownies with Peanut Butter. The tangy depth from the sourdough starter paired with the creamy richness of peanut butter created a delightful contrast. It’s a unique twist that not only enhances the flavor but also adds an unexpected complexity to the texture. Trust me, once you try these brownies, you'll be hooked on this new favorite treat.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-27T11:21:28.047Z

Making these Sourdough Brownies with Peanut Butter was a delightful experiment in my kitchen. I began by using an active sourdough starter, which added a unique flavor dimension that I never anticipated. Additionally, incorporating peanut butter gave these brownies a creamy satisfaction that perfectly complemented the rich chocolate.

One of my best tips is to mix the sourdough starter well into the wet ingredients; this ensures an even incorporation that helps the brownies rise beautifully. The result was a batch of moist, fudgy brownies that were irresistible to everyone who tried them!

Reasons You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor combined with a delightful tang from sourdough
Creamy peanut butter swirled throughout for added indulgence
A unique dessert that stands out in any gathering

The Role of Sourdough in Brownies

Incorporating active sourdough starter into brownies not only adds a unique tangy flavor but also contributes to a moist texture. The fermentation process in sourdough helps break down gluten, which can yield a fudgier brownie than traditional recipes. As the batter bakes, the interaction between the sourdough and sugars creates a beautifully rich crust while maintaining a soft interior that melts in your mouth.

If you're new to using sourdough in baking, remember that it shouldn’t taste overly sour. A well-fed starter will provide the right balance of acidity and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your brownies. Just ensure that your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best results.

Peanut Butter Swirl Techniques

Swirling peanut butter into the brownie batter can be tricky, but I've found that gently folding it in works best to create those beautiful marbled patterns. Use a spoon or spatula to scoop the peanut butter into the batter, then use a figure-eight motion to create swirls without completely mixing it in. This ensures that every bite has a delightful blend of chocolate and creamy peanut butter without losing the rich chocolate base.

If you prefer a stronger peanut butter flavor, consider replacing half of the chocolate chips with extra peanut butter or even using chunky peanut butter for added texture. This can create an enticing contrast in each bite, appealing to peanut butter lovers.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked and cooled, these brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature or for up to three months in the freezer. If you decide to freeze them, ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before serving or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth.

For serving, these brownies are incredibly versatile. They can be topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert or dusted with powdered sugar for a more elegant presentation. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce over the top can elevate their appearance and flavor, perfect for impressing guests at gatherings or just for enjoying a special treat at home.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your brownies:

Ingredients for Sourdough Brownies

1 cup active sourdough starter
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the brownies:

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and sourdough starter. Whisk until smooth. In a separate bowl, mix the cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Add Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the peanut butter, ensuring it creates a marbled effect. Add the chocolate chips and mix until evenly distributed.

Bake the Brownies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your uniquely delicious brownies!

Serve these brownies warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or swirl in additional chocolate before baking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies come out too cakey or dry, it's likely due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Make sure to fold the ingredients until just combined, and use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid adding excess. If they’re undercooked, simply return them to the oven for an additional 5-minute increment, checking for a clean toothpick test as you go.

On the other hand, if the edges are burning before the center sets, consider covering the pan loosely with foil to shield the brownies. This allows them to continue cooking evenly without over-browning. Monitor the baking time closely, especially if your oven temperature tends to run hot.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this recipe gluten-free, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The results will still produce moist and fudgy brownies thanks to the sourdough starter's unique properties. Just ensure your gluten-free flour blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to maintain structure.

For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a vegetable oil or plant-based butter alternative instead of the regular butter. The result will still yield a delicious brownie with that iconic gooey texture.

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to make a smaller batch, you can halve the ingredients to make a smaller pan of brownies. For a larger gathering, simply double the recipe and bake in a larger baking dish, adjusting your baking time as needed, which may require an extra 10-15 minutes. Always use the toothpick method to check doneness, as larger batches can vary in baking time due to changes in heat distribution.

When scaling, keep in mind the mixing times; you don’t want to overmix simply because you’re doubling the batch. The gradual folding technique is still crucial to capturing that perfect texture. Even when increasing the recipe, take care to monitor how your batter comes together and adjust as necessary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter would also work well.

→ How long can I store these brownies?

They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, cut them into squares and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What should I serve these brownies with?

They're delicious served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce!