Olive Oil Brownies: Recipe and Tips
Want brownies that are fudgy, moist, and healthier? Replace butter with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)! This simple swap adds antioxidants and a rich texture while keeping the brownies delicious. Use high-quality EVOO with a smoke point of at least 410°F and ensure it’s fresh (within 9 months of harvest). Here’s what you need to know:
Quick Steps:
- Ingredients: Olive oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cocoa powder, flour, salt, chocolate chips, optional walnuts.
- Tools: 8×8-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, parchment paper.
- Instructions: Mix wet and dry ingredients, combine gently, bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
Pro Tips:
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a fudgy texture.
- Add extras like espresso powder or flaky salt for enhanced flavor.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days (room temp) or 2 weeks (refrigerated).
Switching to olive oil not only elevates your brownies but also adds a touch of nutritional goodness. Let’s bake!
What You'll Need
Ingredients List
To make a batch of fudgy olive oil brownies for 9 servings, gather these ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) of extra virgin olive oil
- 1½ cups (300 g) of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
- ¾ cup (75 g) of unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup (95 g) of all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup (170 g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup (25 g) of chopped walnuts (optional)
Kitchen Tools
For smooth preparation, have these tools on hand:
- An 8×8-inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper
- Two mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
- A whisk and a rubber spatula
- Measuring cups, spoons, and preferably a kitchen scale
- An oven thermometer
- A cooling rack
- A sharp knife
Once your ingredients and tools are ready, preheat your oven to 350°F and line the baking pan so you're set to start mixing the batter.
Making the Brownies
Getting Ready
Start by placing the oven rack in the center position. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting. Brush the exposed edges of the parchment lightly with olive oil. Once the pan is prepped, you're ready to mix the batter.
Mixing the Batter
- Wet ingredients: Whisk olive oil and sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until the mixture is fully blended.
- Dry ingredients: Sift the cocoa powder, flour, and salt together to eliminate any lumps.
- Combine: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined - don’t overmix. If you're adding chocolate chips or walnuts, fold them in with a few gentle strokes.
- Transfer to pan: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly into the corners and smoothing the top.
Baking Instructions
Bake the brownies at 350°F for 25 minutes. They’re ready when a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs, the top looks set (not shiny), and the edges pull slightly away from the pan. Slightly underbaking is ideal, as the brownies will continue to set while cooling. Let them cool on a rack for about an hour before slicing.
How to Make Olive Oil Brownies
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Pro Baking Tips
Once you've nailed the basics, use these expert tricks to improve texture, flavor, and storage.
Achieving Fudgy Brownies
Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. When mixing, gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a cakier texture.
Flavor Enhancements
Take your brownies to the next level with these simple additions:
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
- Fold in ¾ cup of toasted, chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Mix in ½ cup of dark chocolate chips for extra richness.
Storing and Serving Tips
To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
For a more indulgent treat, try these serving ideas:
- Warm a brownie in the microwave for 15 seconds.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
- Drizzle with an aged balsamic reduction.
- Finish with a light dusting of cocoa powder before serving.
Olive Oil vs. Butter Brownies
Switching from butter to extra virgin olive oil in brownies changes more than just the fat. Olive oil adds a unique flavor, keeps the brownies moist, and offers antioxidants. For the best results, use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil that enhances the taste and holds up well to heat.
Wrap-Up
With these tips and Big Horn Olive Oil's Ultra Premium EVOO, you can create brownies that are irresistibly rich and fudgy while sneaking in some extra nutrients. Whether you're an experienced baker or trying your hand at something new, these olive oil brownies bring a flavorful spin to a timeless treat. Time to get baking!