Sourdough Brownie Cheesecake-Discard Recipe

As Seen In Sweet Treats & Baked Goods.

This Sourdough Brownie Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines rich, fudgy brownies with creamy cheesecake swirls. Made with sourdough discard, it’s a unique and delicious way to use up your starter. The brownie base is layered with chocolate chips and a smooth cheesecake mixture, then baked to perfection. Serve chilled for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Ready in under an hour, this dessert is sure to impress!
Sarah Recipes
Recipe by Sarah Sarah
Fresh from the Kitchen: Thu, 27 Feb 2025 01:22:06 GMT
A slice of chocolate cheesecake on a plate. Save for Later
A slice of chocolate cheesecake on a plate. | recipesaddicts.com

With these Sourdough Cheesecake Brownies, you can transform your sourdough into a delectable treat that features two of your favorite treats - delicious chocolate brownies and rich cheesecake swirls. By using up discard, this clever recipe not only cuts down on food waste but also creates a tangy-sweet flavor that elevates the traditional brownie experience.

I came across this recipe while baking with sourdough, and my discard was gathering at a faster rate than I could use it. Thank goodness. My initial intake convinced me that sourdough is equally appetizing as bread.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • While a canned discard is appropriate for all ages, it provides more flavor with older discard.
  • The chocolate flavor in Dutch-processed cocoa powder is more intense and complex than conventional chocolate.
  • The smoothest swirls are made from full-fat cream cheese that is kept at room temperature.
  • To make chocolate chips more flavorful, opt for milk or dark chocolate chips.
  • The utilization of unsalted butter results in more balanced flavor profiles.

Detailed Baking Instructions

To prepare, chill and blend until chilled before blending.
In case of heating the butter, melt it first and let it cool completely to prevent eggs from being cooked.
Blend thoroughly to prevent any unwanted smudges from escaping.
Swirl the cheesecake until it is smooth but not airy, as desired.
Creating distinct layers before swirling is the technique used for stunning embellishments.
To create the most effective swirling patterns, use a toothpick to make figure-eight turns.
To pass the Doneness Test, a toothpick should be used to find moist crumbs (not wet batter) on its side.
A piece of chocolate cake with white frosting on a black plate. Save for Later
A piece of chocolate cake with white frosting on a black plate. | recipesaddicts.com

As my sourdough teacher taught me, the best bakers don't waste anything - this recipe is proof that discard can be transformed into something amazing!

Perfect Pairings

Add vanilla ice cream to your favorite meal, or enjoy some afternoon tea with coffee and warm toast.

A slice of chocolate cake with white frosting on a black plate. Save for Later
A slice of chocolate cake with white frosting on a black plate. | recipesaddicts.com

After numerous attempts, I have come to realize that these are more than just a way of discarding; they are also essentially consuming desserts that contribute to decreasing waste.

Recipe Tips & FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips work well for a richer flavor.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
→ Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
→ What can I serve with this brownie cheesecake?
Serve with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Sourdough Brownie Cheesecake

This Sourdough Brownie Cheesecake combines rich brownies with creamy cheesecake swirls, made with sourdough discard. Perfect for dessert lovers!

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cooking Time
40 Minutes
Total Time
55 Minutes
Recipe by Sarah: Sarah

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Moderate

Style of Cooking: American

Makes: 8 Serves (8 slices)

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian

What You'll Need

→ Sourdough Brownie Base

01 ¼ cup sourdough discard
02 ½ cup butter, melted
03 1 cup sugar
04 2 eggs
05 ½ teaspoon salt
06 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
07 ⅔ cup cocoa powder
08 ½ cup flour

→ Middle Layer

09 ¼ cup chocolate chips (milk or white)

→ Cheesecake Swirl

10 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
11 ¼ cup sugar
12 1 egg
13 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
14 ½ teaspoon salt

Let's Cook!

Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a glass pie tin or 8x8 pan, or line it with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a bowl, combine sourdough discard, melted butter, sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and set the other half aside.

Step 03

Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the brownie batter in the pan.

Step 04

In a separate bowl or stand mixer, whisk together cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Step 05

Dollop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the chocolate chips. Fill in the gaps with dollops of the remaining brownie batter. Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the layers together.

Step 06

Bake at 350°F for 37-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 07

Allow the brownie cheesecake to cool completely, then chill in the fridge before cutting and serving.

Cook's Notes

  1. For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of milk or white chocolate.
  2. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  3. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Glass pie tin or 8x8 baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Stand mixer or whisk
  • Toothpick or knife

Allergy Notes

Always check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your healthcare provider.
  • Contains dairy (butter, cream cheese)
  • Contains gluten (flour)
  • Contains eggs

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutritional values are carefully calculated estimates. For precise dietary needs, please consult a nutritionist.
  • Calories: ~
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrates: ~
  • Protein: ~