Sourdough Brownies with Almonds

Name: Sourdough Brownies with Almonds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 cup sourdough starter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup almonds, chopped and toasted

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Recipes

I believe brownies are the ultimate comfort food, and my Sourdough Brownies with Almonds take them to the next level. With the unique tang of sourdough, every bite offers a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. Incorporating almonds not only adds a satisfying crunch, but also elevates the overall experience. I've experimented with various ingredients along the way, and I can confidently say this version strikes the perfect balance between chewy and fudgy. You won't be able to stop at just one!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T14:14:28.096Z

I’ve always had a fondness for experimenting with baked goods, and my Sourdough Brownies with Almonds are a testament to that. When I realized how sourdough could enhance the flavor profile of chocolate, I knew I was onto something special. The slight tang complements the sweetness, creating a unique treat that surprises everyone who tries it.

One of the best parts of making these brownies is incorporating the almonds. Not only do they provide a lovely texture contrast, but I also recommend lightly toasting them before adding. This simple step really brings out their nutty aroma and adds an extra dimension to the brownies.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with the unique tang of sourdough
Nutty crunch from toasted almonds for added texture
Perfect for sharing or savoring on quiet evenings

The Role of Sourdough in Brownies

Incorporating sourdough starter into brownies transforms the entire experience. The sourdough adds a subtle tang that beautifully complements the rich chocolate, creating a complex flavor profile. This tanginess works to balance the sweetness of the sugars, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the brownie. If you're using a particularly robust sourdough starter, you may find that adjusting the sugar content slightly can achieve the perfect harmony between sweet and sour.

One essential aspect to consider when using sourdough is its hydration level. Depending on whether your starter is more liquid or stiff, you might want to adjust the amount of flour slightly to ensure your brownies come out fudgy rather than too cake-like. If your sourdough starter is customized to be thicker, adding an extra tablespoon of butter could maintain the desired texture.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the ideal texture in these brownies requires careful attention during mixing. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined; over-mixing can lead to chewy, tough brownies. You want that perfect balance of chewy and fudgy, and letting the batter remain a bit lumpy will help. The resulting texture should yield a glossy surface that signifies you've created a batch that will impress anyone who tries them.

Similarly, the choice of baking time is crucial. Bake until you see the edges pulling away from the pan and the top looks set but not dry—about 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C) should do the trick. Remember that brownies continue to cook a little after being removed from the oven due to residual heat, ensuring the center remains delightfully moist.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 cup sourdough starter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup almonds, chopped and toasted

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, sourdough starter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine the Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

Fold in Almonds

Gently fold in the chopped and toasted almonds into the brownie batter.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Slice

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

Pro Tips

For an extra chocolatey experience, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter before baking. You can also experiment with different nuts or even swirl in some caramel for added indulgence.

Storing and Freezing Brownies

These Sourdough Brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to four days. If you'd like to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for about a week. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving to retain their rich, fudgy texture.

For extended storage, brownies freeze exceptionally well. Wrap each brownie square individually in plastic wrap, and then store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply remove from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up—just 10-15 seconds should suffice.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to experiment with different nuts or even chocolate chips as an alternative to almonds. Chopped walnuts or pecans can provide a different texture and flavor profile, which enhances the chocolate's richness. Additionally, a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can elevate the entire dessert, contrasting beautifully with the sweetness.

If you want to add a splash of extra flavor, consider folding in a tablespoon of espresso powder to the wet ingredients—it helps intensify the chocolate flavor. You can also experiment with spices such as cinnamon or even a hint of cayenne for a surprising kick that contrasts with the sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut instead of almonds?

Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts, pecans, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.

→ What if I don't have sourdough starter?

You can replace the sourdough with an equal amount of buttermilk or yogurt for a similar tangy effect.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.