Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites
Highlighted under: Everyday Dessert Recipes
I love these Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites because they combine my passion for baking with my love for coffee. The tangy notes of sourdough paired with rich chocolate deliver an unexpectedly delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. I first experimented with adding sourdough discard into brownies and was amazed at how it enhanced the texture, lending a moist, fudgy consistency. These bites are ideal for satisfying a chocolate craving or sharing with friends who appreciate a unique twist on a classic dessert.
Creating these Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites started as a fun challenge to utilize my sourdough discard, and it quickly became a beloved recipe in my household. I found that incorporating sourdough not only introduces a unique flavor but also enhances the brownie’s texture, making it incredibly fudgy without sacrificing that delightful crust we all love.
During my trials, I played with coffee flavoring and found that adding brewed espresso intensified the mocha experience. For the finishing touch, a sprinkle of sea salt elevates the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully, making each bite an absolute delight.
Why You'll Love These Brownies
- Rich mocha flavor that satisfies coffee and chocolate cravings
- Fudgy texture combined with a unique sourdough twist
- Quick to make and perfect for sharing with friends
Understanding Sourdough Discard
Using sourdough discard in your brownies not only reduces waste but also enhances the flavor profile. The tanginess of the sourdough counterbalances the richness of the cocoa, creating a complex taste that elevates the typical brownie experience. This unique ingredient adds a subtle depth you won’t achieve with standard brownie recipes, so it's worth making sure you have enough discard on hand.
When incorporating sourdough into your brownies, the hydration level of your discard can affect the final texture. If your sourdough discard is particularly thick, you might need to slightly adjust the amount of flour in the recipe. Conversely, if it's very watery, consider using a little less espresso to maintain that desired fudgy consistency. Experimenting with these ratios can lead to the perfect balance.
Perfecting the Fudgy Texture
The key to a fudgy brownie is not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in a cakier product rather than the dense, moist bites you're aiming for. Stir just until the dry ingredients are barely incorporated, and then stop. You want to see a few flour streaks remaining before pouring the batter into the pan.
Baking your brownies at the right temperature and for the correct amount of time is crucial for achieving that perfect fudgy center. If baked too long, the brownies may dry out. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, which indicates they're perfectly baked. After removing from the oven, let them cool in the pan to help them set up while remaining fudgy.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brewed espresso
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
Steps
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the sourdough discard, melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, brewed espresso, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake the Brownie Bites
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into bite-sized squares and sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites!
Pro Tips
- For an extra mocha kick, try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days, but they can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, individually wrap each brownie bite in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll stay good for about three months. When you're craving a treat, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
If you're preparing these brownie bites for an event, consider making them a day in advance. Allowing them to sit overnight can enhance their flavors as they mellow and the texture settles. When ready to serve, cut them into squares and optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an eye-catching presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing these brownie bites with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the dessert to new heights. The coolness and creaminess of the ice cream balance beautifully with the rich chocolate and coffee notes, making for a delightful dessert experience. You might even try adding a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgence.
To complement the mocha flavors, a side of espresso or a strong cup of coffee is an excellent choice. This combination enhances the coffee notes in the brownies, making for a deliciously satisfying treat at any gathering. Alternatively, serve with a glass of milk or a non-dairy alternative for a more classic approach that appeals to a wider audience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but all-purpose flour provides the best texture for these brownies.
→ What can I substitute for sourdough discard?
You can use plain yogurt or unsweetened applesauce for a similar moist texture.
→ How should I store leftover brownies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for a week.
→ Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to two months.
Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites
I love these Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites because they combine my passion for baking with my love for coffee. The tangy notes of sourdough paired with rich chocolate deliver an unexpectedly delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. I first experimented with adding sourdough discard into brownies and was amazed at how it enhanced the texture, lending a moist, fudgy consistency. These bites are ideal for satisfying a chocolate craving or sharing with friends who appreciate a unique twist on a classic dessert.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Everyday Dessert Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 bites
What You'll Need
Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brewed espresso
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Sea salt for topping (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the sourdough discard, melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, brewed espresso, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into bite-sized squares and sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
Extra Tips
- For an extra mocha kick, try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g