Sourdough Discard Blondies

If you keep a sourdough starter on your counter, chances are you’ve asked yourself at least once: What else can I do with all this discard?
These Sourdough Discard Blondies are one of the simplest — and most satisfying — answers.
They’re chewy, rich, and deeply comforting, with a subtle depth of flavor that sets them apart from classic blondies. Best of all, they come together quickly, require no mixer, and don’t demand any fermentation timing. This is the kind of recipe that works just as well for a casual weeknight treat as it does for sharing with friends.
Why Sourdough Discard Works So Well in Blondies
Sourdough discard shines in dessert recipes like this because it adds complexity without overpowering sweetness. You won’t taste “sour” — instead, you’ll notice a more balanced, bakery-style flavor.
In these blondies, sourdough discard:
- Enhances depth of flavor
- Keeps the bars soft and moist
- Balances the sweetness of brown sugar
- Reduces food waste
- Makes the recipe more forgiving
Because the lift comes from baking powder, this recipe works beautifully with discard straight from the fridge.
The Texture: Chewy, Soft, and Perfectly Sliceable
These blondies strike the ideal balance:
- Soft centers
- Chewy edges
- Rich, buttery crumb
- Golden, slightly crisp top
Melted butter and brown sugar give them that classic blondie richness, while the sourdough discard helps prevent dryness — even after a day or two on the counter.
A Beginner-Friendly Sourdough Dessert
If you’re new to sourdough baking, this is an excellent recipe to start with. There’s no need to understand fermentation, dough strength, or proofing cues.
This recipe:
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Comes together in one bowl
- Takes about 15 minutes to prep
- Bakes in a standard 9×13 pan
It’s approachable, low-pressure, and consistently successful.

Sourdough Blondies
Ingredients
- 170 g Melted Butter 1.5 sticks
- 2 Eggs
- 100 g Sourdough Starter ½ cup
- 350 g Brown Sugar 1¾ cups
- 10 g Vanilla 1 tbsp
- 250 g All Purpose Flour 1½ cups
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 150 g Chocolate Chips 1 cup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Add your melted butter, eggs, starter, brown sugar, and vanilla to a medium-sized bowl. Whisk thoroughly to combine.
- Add your flour, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Mix with a silicone spatula until all of the dry ingredients are incorporated.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9”x13” baking pan. Top with chocolate chips (optional).
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is set and golden.
so quick and easy!!!
These plus some vanilla bean ice cream is why God made dessert.
I am in love with these and the baker in the picture
Great recipe!
When I made these I couldn’t wait for them to cool down before I ate them. Burned my mouth a tad, but I have no regrets, I would do it again.
My first attempt at making blondies, these are delicious!