Chocolate Coconut Sourdough Brownies

Name: Chocolate Coconut Sourdough Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 ½ cups sugar; 1 cup active sourdough starter; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup shredded coconut

Highlighted under: Dessert Lover’s Collection

I absolutely love the decadent flavor of these Chocolate Coconut Sourdough Brownies. Every bite brings together rich chocolate and the subtle hint of coconut, creating a dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting. Baking with sourdough starter adds a unique depth and moisture to these brownies, making them chewy and delicious. I can't wait to share this recipe with you, as it has quickly become a favorite in my household. Let's dive into this sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-27T13:10:28.091Z

When I first tried combining chocolate and coconut in my sourdough brownies, I was amazed by the results. The flavors melded beautifully, and the texture was divine! By using my active sourdough starter, I found that it not only added moisture but also a subtle tang that complemented the sweetness perfectly. This recipe is a delightful experiment that I couldn't wait to share with everyone.

Each time I make these brownies, I adjust the coconut flakes for a bit of extra crunch or toasting them for a more complex flavor. The smell that fills the kitchen is irresistible, and I love watching my friends' faces light up with the first bite. It’s a memorable treat that never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh coconut flakes
Chewy texture that balances perfectly with a hint of sourdough
A unique twist on traditional brownies that impresses at gatherings

The Role of Sourdough Starter

Using an active sourdough starter in these brownies offers much more than just a tangy flavor. The natural fermentation process breaks down gluten, giving the brownies a wonderfully chewy texture. This addition also introduces beneficial bacteria that enhance flavor complexity. Make sure your starter is bubbly and at its peak activity for optimal results; ideally, feed it 4-6 hours before using to ensure it is lively and contributes positively to the brownie batter.

Another important aspect is moisture retention. The sourdough starter helps maintain a soft and fudgy texture in the finished product, ensuring that they don't dry out during baking. If you're new to baking with sourdough, remember that the active starter acts as both a leavening agent and a rich source of flavor, helping to create a unique depth in your brownies that you won’t achieve with standard recipes.

Handling Coconut in Brownies

Incorporating shredded coconut adds a delightful chewiness and a subtle tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate. For the best texture, use unsweetened shredded coconut, as it allows the rich chocolate flavor to shine without becoming overly sweet. Toasting the coconut lightly in a dry skillet until golden before folding it into the batter can bring out its natural flavors even more. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

If you prefer to experiment, consider substituting with other coconut forms such as coconut flour for added flavor intensity or coconut oil in place of half the butter for a different texture. Both options will still result in an enticing sweetness while providing various nutritional benefits. Don’t forget that the consistent size of the coconut shreds is key; uniform pieces will ensure even distribution throughout the brownies.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 ½ cups sugar
1 cup active sourdough starter
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded coconut

Make sure to mix the ingredients well for a smooth batter!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar, mixing until smooth. Add the sourdough starter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Both Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the shredded coconut.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Serve these brownies warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, top these brownies with a sprinkle of sea salt before baking!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To keep your Chocolate Coconut Sourdough Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to extend their life, these brownies freeze exceptionally well. Just wrap individual pieces in parchment paper and then in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature, and they’ll regain their chewy texture wonderfully.

If preparing in advance, you can make the batter the night before and refrigerate it. Just make sure to allow it to come to room temperature before baking, as cold batter can lead to uneven baking. This method can save you time on busy days while assuring you have your favorite dessert ready to go!

Serving Suggestions

Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a luscious dessert experience. You could also drizzle them with a rich chocolate ganache or sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top for an irresistible contrast against the rich chocolate. A few toasted coconut flakes sprinkled on top can enhance both the presentation and flavor, too.

For a fun twist, cut the brownies into smaller squares and use them as a base for a brownie sundae. Layer them with your choice of toppings: fresh berries, banana slices, or even a hint of caramel sauce can elevate each bite and create a delightful dessert bar for gatherings or special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the sourdough starter?

Yes, you can replace it with applesauce or yogurt, but it will alter the flavor slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend!

→ What can I use instead of coconut?

You can replace coconut with chopped nuts or leave it out altogether for a classic brownie.