Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites
Highlighted under: Sweet Recipe Collection
When I first combined the rich flavors of mocha with the tang of sourdough, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. These Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites are not just brownies; they’re a delightful adventure for your taste buds. The best part is that the sourdough adds a unique depth, making it a perfect way to utilize leftover starter. Each bite is a blissful balance of coffee and chocolate that leaves me craving more, making them a favorite for any occasion.
Creating these Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites was a labor of love, as I wanted to find a way to incorporate my sourdough starter into something decadent. The addition of finely brewed coffee gives these brownies an intense mocha flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the chocolate. To achieve the best texture, I focused on balancing the wet and dry ingredients. The result? Brownies that are fudgy yet slightly chewy.
As I baked them for the first time, I made sure to use high-quality cocoa powder and fresh coffee for maximum flavor. I let them cool slightly before biting in, and the rich aroma filled my kitchen. You’ll love how a bit of sourdough adds an unexpected twist, making this treat even more delightful!
Why You'll Love These Brownie Bites
- Rich mocha flavor that satisfies any chocolate lover
- Unique sourdough tang adds depth to each bite
- Bite-sized perfection, great for sharing or treating yourself
Understanding Sourdough's Role
Sourdough starter not only provides a unique tangy flavor but also contributes to the texture of these brownie bites. The acidity from the starter enhances the browning reactions during baking, leading to a rich, fudgy interior. If you’ve never baked with sourdough in desserts before, you'll be pleasantly surprised by how it elevates the flavor profile without overwhelming sweetness.
For those who might be hesitant about using sourdough, rest assured that the chocolate and coffee will dominate the flavor. In fact, a good balance of ingredients ensures that the sourdough melds harmoniously with the mocha essence. If you find your starter has a strong sour taste, consider adding a tablespoon of sweetener to balance it out without losing that signature tang.
Perfect Baking Tips
When filling your mini muffin tin, be careful not to overfill; leaving a little space allows the brownie bites to rise beautifully without spilling over. For consistently even baking, use an ice cream scoop to portion your batter. This not only ensures uniform size but also helps maintain the delicate texture all around. Cooking time is crucial—check for doneness at the 25-minute mark, as ovens can vary; a skewer should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
If you want to add an extra layer of flavor or texture, consider incorporating chopped nuts or caramelized espresso beans into the batter before baking. These additions can enhance the mocha notes and provide a contrasting crunch. However, keep in mind that any add-ins can alter bake times slightly, so monitor your bites closely for that perfect bake.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Bites
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Whisk in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and sourdough starter. Mix until smooth.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the brewed coffee. Stir until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Fill the Pan and Bake
Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve
Allow the brownie bites to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
These brownie bites can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Pro Tips
- For an extra mocha kick, consider adding espresso powder to the batter or topping them with a dusting of powdered sugar mixed with cocoa powder.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites are perfect for prepping ahead of time. After they've cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap each brownie bite individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months.
To enjoy frozen brownie bites, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you're craving a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly-baked feel. This way, you can indulge in a delightful treat at your convenience.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
For a different flavor twist, try swapping out the cocoa powder for some dark chocolate or espresso powder, enhancing the mocha experience even further. Additionally, you can drizzle melted chocolate or espresso-infused glaze on top once the bites have cooled; this not only adds visual appeal but also intensifies that mocha flavor.
These brownie bites are great on their own but pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. For gatherings, serve them on a platter with coffee or an assortment of teas to complement their rich flavors, creating a sophisticated snack that's sure to impress your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a regular brownie pan instead of a mini muffin tin?
Yes, you can use a regular brownie pan. Just adjust the baking time, as it will take longer to bake.
→ What can I use if I don't have a sourdough starter?
You can substitute with plain yogurt or unsweetened applesauce for similar moisture.
→ How do I know when the brownie bites are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; they are done when it comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
→ Can these be frozen?
Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites
When I first combined the rich flavors of mocha with the tang of sourdough, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. These Mocha Sourdough Brownie Bites are not just brownies; they’re a delightful adventure for your taste buds. The best part is that the sourdough adds a unique depth, making it a perfect way to utilize leftover starter. Each bite is a blissful balance of coffee and chocolate that leaves me craving more, making them a favorite for any occasion.
Created by: Luca
Recipe Type: Sweet Recipe Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bites
What You'll Need
For the Brownie Bites
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 cup chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Whisk in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and sourdough starter. Mix until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the brewed coffee. Stir until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the brownie bites to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
Extra Tips
- For an extra mocha kick, consider adding espresso powder to the batter or topping them with a dusting of powdered sugar mixed with cocoa powder.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g