Coconut Chocolate Sourdough Brownie

Name: Coconut Chocolate Sourdough Brownie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 9 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup melted coconut oil; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

I have to admit, creating the Coconut Chocolate Sourdough Brownie was a delightful journey for me. As a fan of both chocolate and coconut, I wanted to craft a treat that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the tropical essence of coconut, all while incorporating the unique tanginess of sourdough. The result was nothing short of magical! These brownies turned out to be incredibly moist, with a depth of flavor that truly satisfied my sweet cravings. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-27T09:30:27.473Z

When I first thought about mixing sourdough into a brownie recipe, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. But I was pleasantly surprised! The slight tang from the sourdough combined beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate and the creaminess of the coconut. It created a flavor profile that was both unique and incredibly satisfying.

One key tip I learned during my baking journey is to allow the brownie batter to sit for a few minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and contributes to a more tender crumb. Trust me, you’ll want to give it a go!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh coconut shavings
Decadent chewy texture that is incredibly satisfying
Perfect for sharing with friends or indulging yourself

Understanding Sourdough's Role

The sourdough starter adds a unique tanginess to the brownies that balances the sweetness from the brown sugar. It also contributes to the overall moisture and texture of the finished product. This moisture is crucial, as I found that it creates a chewy, fudgy brownie, unlike any regular recipe. Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for best results; if it has been sitting in the fridge, give it a feeding and allow it to activate for about 4-6 hours at room temperature before using it.

Additionally, sourdough enhances the flavor profile by providing complex notes that traditional brownies lack. The acidity in sourdough helps in developing a deeper, more pronounced chocolate flavor. You can even use a whole grain sourdough starter for added nutritional benefits and a slightly nuttier taste. Just keep in mind that the type of flour in your starter might influence the final texture, so stick with what you know yields a good rise and moisture.

Coconut Incorporation Techniques

When incorporating the shredded coconut into the brownie batter, avoid overmixing. Gently folding helps to maintain the brownies' dense, fudgy texture and evenly distributes the coconut without causing the batter to become tough. If you prefer a stronger coconut flavor, opt for unsweetened coconut flakes as they add more depth than sweetened varieties. I also recommend toasting the coconut lightly in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes before adding it for an enhanced nutty flavor.

If you want to try different textures, consider switching to coconut flour for some of the all-purpose flour. Start with substituting 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour for coconut flour, as it absorbs more moisture and may require adjustments. Remember, too much coconut flour can make your brownies too dry, so it’s always important to balance the moisture content when making substitutions.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup melted coconut oil
1 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect Coconut Chocolate Sourdough Brownie:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a square baking pan (8x8 inch) by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and sea salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Add Coconut

Gently fold in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Brownies

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

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Now, enjoy your homemade Coconut Chocolate Sourdough Brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra tropical twist, try adding chopped macadamia nuts into the batter.

Storage and Freezing Tips

For optimal storage, keep your Coconut Chocolate Sourdough Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for up to 3-5 days. If you've made a larger batch or want to extend their lifespan, you can freeze them. Slice the brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before enjoying.

Just keep in mind that freezing may alter the texture slightly, so reheating them before serving can help bring back that delightful fudginess. If you prefer a chilled snack, these brownies are also delicious right out of the fridge — the cold intensifies the chocolate flavor!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Coconut Chocolate Brownies, consider serving them with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture complements the chewy brownie superbly, and a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the top brings in even more richness. Another great idea is to sprinkle some extra toasted coconut flakes on top for added crunch and flavor. You could also serve them with fresh berries, which provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the brownies.

For a festive touch, you can cut the brownies into fun shapes using cookie cutters, especially during holidays or special occasions. I’ve also enjoyed them paired with a strong cup of coffee or a decadent hot chocolate, making them an excellent treat for afternoon breaks or dessert after dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweetened shredded coconut?

Yes, but it will make the brownies sweeter. Adjust the sugar accordingly.

→ Is it important to use an active sourdough starter?

Yes, an active starter helps achieve the desired texture and flavor.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.