Dense Fudge Brownies With Discard

Name: Dense Fudge Brownies With Discard
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup ingredient discard (such as sourdough starter or yogurt)

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I love experimenting in the kitchen, and these Dense Fudge Brownies with Discard are a testament to that. Using leftover ingredients that would otherwise go to waste not only makes for a delicious treat but also feels like a win for sustainability. The rich chocolate flavor combined with a fudgy texture is exactly what I crave when I need a little indulgence. Plus, I’ve tailored this recipe to bring out the best of what I have on hand. Let’s dive into this decadent journey together.

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:02:36.412Z

When I first thought about using kitchen discard for baking, I was skeptical. But after a few tries, I've nailed a recipe that utilizes leftover ingredients beautifully. These brownies have a deep chocolate flavor and a delightful fudgy texture, thanks to the unique blend of discards I incorporated. I’ve found that using kitchen scraps can yield surprisingly delicious results, turning something that might be wasted into an extravagant treat.

My favorite part about making these brownies is the experimentation with flavors. Sometimes, I'll add a hint of espresso or sprinkle in some sea salt for an extra kick. It never fails to impress my friends and family! Learning how to enhance the texture and flavor while reducing waste has become an enjoyable challenge for me, and I'm excited to share this recipe with you.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Irresistibly rich chocolate flavor that satisfies every craving
A clever way to use kitchen scraps and reduce food waste
Perfectly fudgy texture that keeps you coming back for more

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Dense Fudge Brownies with Discard serves a specific purpose that contributes to the overall texture and flavor. The combination of unsweetened cocoa powder and both granulated and brown sugars creates a deep chocolate flavor while adding necessary moisture. The brown sugar adds a slight caramel note, enhancing the richness. Moreover, using melted unsalted butter paired with vegetable oil gives the brownies that toothsome fudgy texture that we all crave.

The inclusion of ingredient discard, such as sourdough starter or yogurt, is a unique twist that not only reduces waste but also adds tanginess and moisture to the brownie batter. This addition can help to create a lighter texture compared to using just butter or oil. If you don't have discard on hand, you can substitute with applesauce or an equivalent amount of mashed banana for a similar moisture effect.

Mastering the Baking Process

When baking brownies, the timing is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Baking them for just the right amount of time, about 30 minutes, allows them to set while still being fudgy. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter. If you overbake, your brownies can turn dry and crumbly, losing that characteristic fudgy feel.

For even baking, it’s beneficial to rotate the pan halfway through the baking time. This ensures even heat distribution, especially if your oven has hot spots. After baking, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes; this will help them firm up and make slicing easier. Chilling them in the refrigerator for about an hour after they’ve cooled completely can also enhance the flavor and texture, making for cleaner cuts.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these decadent brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup ingredient discard (such as sourdough starter or yogurt)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh and ready for optimal flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the ultimate fudge brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, vegetable oil, sugar, and brown sugar together until smooth. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.

Add the Discard

Fold in the ingredient discard (like sourdough starter or yogurt) and chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution throughout the brownie batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Slice

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your rich, fudgy brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a handful of nuts or a swirl of peanut butter before baking. They can also be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert experience.

Tips for Serving and Variations

These Dense Fudge Brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with some creative serving ideas. Consider drizzling a simple ganache made from melted chocolate and cream over the brownies for an extra touch of indulgence. A sprinkle of sea salt right before serving can also enhance the chocolate flavor. Pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream transforms these brownies into a decadent dessert that's perfect for entertaining.

If you're looking to mix things up, consider adding nuts or swirl in some peanut butter or Nutella before baking for added flavor. You can also experiment with flavored extracts—like almond or mint—when combining the wet ingredients to give a unique twist to the chocolate base.

Storage and Freezing

These brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours or microwave for a few seconds until warm.

When freezing, it’s a good approach to underbake them slightly before freezing to accommodate for the extra cooking they will undergo during reheating. This ensures they retain that beloved fudgy texture even after being frozen and reheated.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I replace the butter with oil?

Yes, you can use the same amount of vegetable or coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

→ What kind of discard can I use?

You can use various types of discard such as sourdough starter, yogurt, or even mashed bananas.

→ How do I know when the brownies are done?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.