Crackly Top Sourdough Brownies

Name: Crackly Top Sourdough Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 4 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup sourdough starter, fed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Basic Cooking

I absolutely love making these Crackly Top Sourdough Brownies whenever I'm in need of a sweet treat. The combination of rich chocolate and the slight tanginess from the sourdough creates a unique flavor that keeps everyone asking for more. The crackly top adds an irresistible texture that contrasts beautifully with the moist interior. These brownies are perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of coffee. Once you bake a batch, you’ll find them disappearing faster than you can imagine.

Created by

Flora Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:29:34.847Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was surprised by how well the sourdough starter mingled with the chocolate. It not only adds a subtle tang but also enhances the flavor profile, making each bite feel indulgent. I recommend using a recently fed sourdough starter for the best results—I noticed that it yields a richer texture and an even more crackly top.

After experimenting multiple times, I found that the key to achieving that ideal crackly top is in how you mix and bake the brownies. Be sure not to overmix the batter once you've added the chocolate and sourdough. This prevents gluten formation and keeps them gooey and rich!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with the unique tang of sourdough
Decadently moist interior with a delightfully crackly surface
Perfect for any occasion—simple enough for a weeknight, fancy enough for guests

      

Choosing the Right Chocolate

The choice of chocolate for these brownies greatly influences the final flavor. For the richest taste, I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60-70% cocoa content. This will add depth to the brownies, balancing the sweetness of the sugars. If you prefer a lighter chocolate flavor, semi-sweet chocolate works well too. Just make sure not to skimp on the quality—using chocolate chips labeled as 'baking chocolate' will yield better results than regular chocolate chips due to their higher cocoa butter content.

In addition to chocolate bars or chips, you can also experiment with cocoa powder varieties. Dutch-processed cocoa powder gives a darker color and milder flavor, while natural cocoa powder retains more acidity, enhancing the tang from the sourdough. Depending on the type you choose, it may subtly alter the taste of the brownies, but both options complement the overall recipe beautifully.

Understanding Sourdough Starter

In this recipe, the sourdough starter does more than just contribute a unique flavor; it also helps keep the brownies exceptionally moist. Using a well-fed starter that's bubbly and active ensures the right balance of tanginess and moisture. If your starter is too old or hasn't been fed recently, it may lack the necessary potency, resulting in drier brownies with less complexity in flavor. I recommend feeding your starter about 4-6 hours before baking, or even the night before for optimal results.

If you don't have sourdough starter on hand, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 cup of flour with 1 cup of water and letting it sit at room temperature for 24 hours. However, this will yield a different texture and flavor profile. For a gluten-free version, consider using a gluten-free sourdough starter and a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend, keeping in mind that the taste may differ slightly but will still offer the wonderful crackly top you desire.

Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients to make these mouth-watering brownies.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
4 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sourdough starter, fed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking dish.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mix the Sugars

In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.

Fold in Sourdough Starter

Gently fold in the fed sourdough starter until everything is just incorporated.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.

Enjoy these brownies warm or at room temperature with a scoop of ice cream!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Cooling and Serving Tips

Once you remove the brownies from the oven, it's essential to let them cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. This allows them to set properly, preventing them from falling apart when you cut them. If you’re in a hurry, you can transfer them to a wire rack after a few minutes to expedite cooling, but be careful to keep their shape intact.

When slicing, use a sharp knife and make clean cuts for perfect squares. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to reduce sticking, especially if the brownies are still a bit gooey. These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them further by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar on top for added flair.

Storage and Freezing

To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to prolong their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap each brownie square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay good in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour or microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Keep in mind that freezing may alter the texture slightly, making them even fudgier. For a delicious twist, try reheating the brownies slightly before serving; the warm chocolate will melt a bit, enhancing the overall indulgence. This makes them perfect for unexpected guests or spontaneous indulgences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute with whole wheat flour, but note that it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How long do these brownies stay fresh?

The brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

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

→ What if I don’t have sourdough starter?

You can make a simple brownie recipe without sourdough, but the unique flavor and texture will differ.