Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is about to change your dessert game forever! The next time you're grabbing the trustee brownie box mix or embarking on a brownies from scratch journey, try EVOO! 

Why Olive Oil in Brownies? 

Let's talk fat, cooking fat that is. When baking, the cooking fat is what gives your dessert moist, rich, and decadent features. Typically brownies call for butter or a generic vegetable oil, but what happens when you sub olive oil into the mix? A whole lotta unsaturated fats (good fats!), flavor, and a little health boost! 

Not only will the brownies retain that same ooey-gooey perfection you know and love, they'll also get a hint of heart-healthy goodness and a richer flavor. 

Pro Tip: EVOO locks in moisture, so you can say goodbye to crumbly dry brownies.

What Happens When You Use EVOO? 

Texture: EVOO keeps your brownies tender and fudgy without the need for dairy. It locks in moisture, so you can say goodbye to crumbly dry brownies forever! 

Flavor: Here is where things get interesting in the kitchen. EVOO adds a slightly fruity, peppery note to your brownies. It's subtle, yet sophisticated. 

Health Boost: Olive oil isn't just a pretty flavor, it's also packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. So when you're sinking your teeth into chocolatey goodness, you're also getting a dose of Vitamin E. 

How to Swap Butter for EVOO in Brownies?

Ready for the great news? It's incredibly easy to make the swap. Just replace butter with EVOO in a 1:1 ratio. If the recipe calls for a ½ cup of butter, use a ½ cup of EVOO instead. So simple! 

Will Olive Oil Affect the Taste of My Brownies?

We know what you're thinking: Will my brownies taste like salad dressing? The answer: nope, not a even a little! EVOO adds a depth of flavor, but doesn't overpower the chocolate. It compliments the richness, making the overall taste more well-rounded. It's chocolate's best baking wingman! 

In addition to adding EVOO, we also recommend using a cocoa powder with at least 70% cacao to really let the chocolate flavor shine! If you're looking for even more flavor elevation, add a dash of flaky sea salt and tahini to the mix. 

The Verdict

Can you make brownies with olive oil? Absolutely. Should you? Definitely. EVOO doesn't just add an antioxidant boost, it also gives the brownies a delicious, unique flavor profile that will have everyone reaching for seconds. (Plus we have the perfect brownie recipe for you right here: HU Kitchen Brownies).