No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls

Here’s a unique twist on a classic treat—Sourdough Brownies! The tangy flavor of sourdough adds a rich depth to the sweetness of chocolate, making for a moist, delicious brownie.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sourdough starter (discard or active)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix wet ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Stir in the sourdough starter until fully incorporated.
3. Mix dry ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients:
   • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
   • If using, fold in the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate for extra richness.
5. Bake:
   • Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
   • The edges should be set, but the center will still be slightly soft.
6. Cool and serve:
   • Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
   • Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, slice, and enjoy!

Tips:

• The sourdough starter adds a subtle tanginess to the brownies, which balances out the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• You can also experiment with different types of chocolate (dark, milk, or a combination) for a varied flavor profile.

These Sourdough Brownies are a fun, creative way to use up sourdough starter, and they offer a rich, fudgy texture that’s sure to impress!