Chewy Brownies With Starter

Name: Chewy Brownies With Starter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup starter (sourdough or other preferred type); 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Favorites

I love baking chewy brownies, and using a starter makes them even more delicious and rich. The texture is incredible, with a delightful chewiness that keeps me coming back for more. I enjoy sharing them with friends and family, especially when they compliment the deep chocolate flavor. This recipe is straightforward and requires common ingredients, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Plus, the smell of brownies baking in the oven is simply irresistible and fills my kitchen with warmth.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T17:17:36.351Z

When developing this recipe, I wanted to capture that perfect chewy texture that makes brownies so appealing. I discovered that by incorporating a starter, the depth of flavor significantly enhances. It’s a simple technique that can elevate a basic brownie recipe into something special. I was excited to see how even a slight adjustment in the ingredients could create a vastly different texture and taste.

After several tests, I found that the timing of mixing and the right baking temperature were crucial. Allowing the brownies to cool completely before slicing also helps achieve those neat, professional-looking edges. Trust me; the extra patience will pay off when you see the smiles on your loved ones’ faces!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor blended with a subtle hint of depth from the starter
Incredibly chewy texture that satisfies the cravings
Perfect for sharing during gatherings or simply indulging at home

The Role of Starter in Brownies

Using a starter, such as sourdough, not only adds a unique depth of flavor but also contributes to the overall texture of the brownies. The natural fermentation process introduces subtle tangy notes that balance the sweetness of the sugar, making each bite more complex. Plus, the acidity present can enhance the richness of the chocolate, elevating the brownies from ordinary to extraordinary.

When incorporating the starter, make sure it is fed and bubbly for the best results. A well-fed starter can help create a lighter and more airy structure in your brownies. If you don’t have a starter on hand, you can substitute it with yogurt or buttermilk; however, these alternatives will not impart the same depth of flavor.

Perfecting the Brownie Texture

Achieving that perfect chewy texture is crucial to a successful brownie recipe. The butter must be melted gently, avoiding high heat that can disturb the fat structure, leading to a greasy final product. I recommend stirring in the sugar while the butter is still warm, which helps create a shiny, glossy batter responsible for that beautiful crust once baked.

Be cautious not to overmix once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to cakey brownies instead of the desired chewy texture. Mix just until you no longer see dry flour, and then gently fold in your starter and chocolate chips to maintain that soft, fudgy interior.

Storing and Serving Your Brownies

Once cooled, these brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut the brownies into squares, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and will retain their chewy texture when thawed at room temperature or briefly reheated.

Brownies are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or adorned with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. For a fun twist, consider topping them with chopped nuts or serving them warm with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these chewy brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup starter (sourdough or other preferred type)
1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious chewy brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, mixing until combined.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Allow the butter mixture to cool slightly, then whisk in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Starter and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the starter and chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 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 at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

For best results, let the brownies cool completely before cutting into them.

Pro Tips

For added richness, you can swap out some of the granulated sugar for brown sugar. This will enhance the flavor profile and keep the brownies extra moist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies turn out too cake-like, it is likely due to overmixing or overbaking. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time, as ovens can vary. The brownies should have a slight jiggle in the center but appear set along the edges. If you notice they are pulling away from the sides of the pan, they may be overbaked.

On the other hand, if your brownies are too gooey and underbaked, it might be due to too much liquid in the starter or not baking for long enough. Keep in mind that the brownies will continue to firm up slightly as they cool in the pan, so making sure they are just set can result in a perfect chewy consistency.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This brownie recipe is easily scalable depending on your needs. If you want a smaller batch, you can halve the ingredients and use an 8x8-inch baking pan, but be mindful to reduce the baking time slightly. For larger gatherings, simply double the recipe and use a larger pan, adjusting the bake time to ensure they cook evenly without burning.

When scaling the recipe, remember that the baking time may vary based on the thickness of the batter in the pan. It’s a good idea to check for doneness with a toothpick in the center and adjust your cooking time accordingly, especially in deeper pans.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of chocolate for this recipe?

Yes, feel free to use dark, milk, or even white chocolate according to your preferences!

→ How long do the brownies last?

The brownies can last up to a week stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with brownies?

These brownies are delicious on their own, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce makes a lovely addition!