Have you ever baked something that feels warm and comforting, where the smell brings back happy memories? These brownies are just that—rich chocolate mixed with creamy cheese and a hint of sourdough flavor. Sourdough cream cheese brownies are not your usual brownies; they’re a special treat everyone will enjoy. Whether you love baking or just want to try something new, this recipe will help you make delicious brownies every time.
Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Cream Cheese Brownies
What makes sourdough cream cheese brownies so special? Here are just a few irresistible reasons:
- Unique flavor profile: The gentle sourness of the sourdough pairs beautifully with the decadent chocolate, balancing sweetness perfectly.
- Rich creaminess: A cream cheese swirl adds extra moistness and gives each bite a silky texture.
- Perfect for sourdough discard: If you’ve been wondering what to do with leftover sourdough starter, this recipe is your delicious solution.
- Stunning appearance: The marbled cream cheese and brownie layers make an eye-catching dessert that’s sure to impress guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Sourdough Cream Cheese Brownies
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients are simple, yet the combination yields truly exceptional brownies.
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking the Best Sourdough Cream Cheese Brownies
Follow these easy steps, and soon you’ll have delicious brownies ready to enjoy:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by ensuring your cream cheese is soft enough to blend easily. Melt your butter and allow it to cool slightly. Organize your ingredients ahead of time to make baking smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, combine the sourdough discard, melted butter, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder, whisking until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla. Gently fold the flour and salt into the batter until combined, avoiding overmixing.
Step 3: Create the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, blending until no lumps remain.
Step 4: Assemble and Swirl
Line your baking pan with parchment paper. Pour brownie batter evenly into the pan. Spoon dollops of cream cheese mixture onto the batter, then use a butter knife or toothpick to gently swirl, creating a marble pattern. This step is key for both aesthetics and evenly distributed flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 30-35 minutes. Keep a careful eye near the end; brownies should be firm at the edges yet still slightly soft in the center. This guarantees the signature gooey, moist texture you’re aiming for.
Step 6: Cooling and Serving Tips
Allow your brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. For even neater slices, consider chilling them briefly in the refrigerator. Serve slightly warmed or at room temperature—either way, they’re utterly delightful.
Why Use Sourdough Discard in Brownies?
If you’ve never baked with sourdough discard, you might wonder why it’s used in brownies. Here’s the scoop:
- Enhanced moisture: Sourdough starter naturally adds moisture, making your brownies deliciously fudgy.
- Complex flavor: The subtle tanginess enriches the chocolate taste, providing layers of depth you can’t achieve with regular brownies.
- Waste reduction: Using discard is an environmentally friendly practice, helping you reduce food waste.
In short, sourdough discard transforms standard brownies into gourmet treats.
Pro Tips for Perfectly Gooey Brownies Every Time
- Don’t overbake: Slightly underbaking ensures that perfect, fudgy center.
- Quality cocoa powder matters: High-quality cocoa yields a richer chocolate flavor.
- Cool properly: Allow brownies to cool fully before slicing for clean, neat edges.
- Storage advice: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Wondering how best to serve these decadent brownies? Try these suggestions:
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or salted caramel drizzle.
- Pair alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso.
- Garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for added elegance.
FAQ
You might have questions about making and enjoying these brownies. Here are common questions answered:
Can I freeze sourdough cream cheese brownies?
Absolutely! Wrap individual brownies tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying again.
Do sourdough cream cheese brownies taste sour?
No. The sourdough discard adds subtle complexity, enhancing the chocolate and cream cheese flavors without overpowering the brownies with sourness.
Can I make sourdough cream cheese brownies gluten-free?
Definitely. Substitute an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Your brownies will still turn out wonderfully rich and satisfying.
What if I don’t have sourdough discard?
If you don’t have sourdough discard, you can still follow this recipe by simply omitting it and increasing flour slightly, though you’ll miss out on the unique flavor profile.
Bake Your Batch Today!
Now you have all the insights to bake delicious, irresistible sourdough cream cheese brownies at home. It’s not just baking—it’s an invitation to create sweet, lasting memories with those around you. Every bite is a mouthwatering combination of creamy indulgence and chocolatey comfort.
Don’t wait another moment. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor brownies like never before. Once you’ve tasted them, you’ll wonder how you’ve gone this long without experiencing the unique magic of sourdough cream cheese brownies.
Brownies You May Like
- Peanut Butter Brownies
- Peppermint Bark Brownies
- Sourdough Discard Brownies
- Healthy Cottage Cheese Brownies
Sourdough Cream Cheese Brownies
Equipment
Ingredients
For Brownie Batter:
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
For Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
Prepare brownie batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together sourdough discard, melted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder until combined. Mix in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract. Fold in flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Prepare cream cheese mixture:
- In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is creamy and lump-free.
Assemble brownies:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture on top. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter to create a marbled pattern.
Bake:
- Bake brownies for 30-35 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly soft and fudgy. Avoid overbaking.
Cool and slice:
- Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan. Lift brownies out using parchment paper overhang, slice into 16 squares, and serve at room temperature or slightly warmed.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, use high-quality cocoa powder.
- Leftover brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days, refrigerated up to 1 week, or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Perfect recipe to utilize sourdough discard, adding subtle tanginess and moisture.
