Can you use olive oil in Brownies?

Olive Oil and Brownies: An Unexpected Pairing

Is Olive Oil Used in Brownies, and Why?

Yes, olive oil can be used in brownies, offering a modern twist on traditional baking methods. You can literally buy olive oil brownie mix, but if you add the olive oil yourself, you’ll have more control over the final result. The key is choosing the right type of olive oil, as its distinct taste will influence the final product. The fruity taste of quality extra virgin olive oil in brownies, such as Big Paw Olive Oil’s California Gold extra virgin olive oil, perfectly pairs with chocolate’s milky sweetness. Combining the deliciousness of our olive oil in brownies is a treat for your taste buds, and it even offers health benefits too!

The growing popularity of extra virgin olive oil in brownies, with many health-conscious bakers, comes from its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts have championed the versatility of olive oil for years. Using olive oil in desserts is also well-known in traditional Italian and Spanish recipes.

Olive Oil in Brownies vs. Butter: What’s the Difference?

Butter helps you achieve a softer, chewier texture and olive oil adds its own more herb-like taste, with the result being a denser brownie. For best comparative results, culinary experts say to substitute ¾ cup of olive oil in brownies for a cup of butter.

The difference in using butter and olive oil in brownies comes down to whether you’re expecting that buttery taste that is familiar and a cake-type brownie. If so, go with butter. You may like a fudgier brownie, and olive oil can help you achieve that texture and taste.

Some people like to use olive oil for health reasons, as its fat is said to help improve cholesterol and reduce inflammation. If you are looking to eat a sweet treat with an eye to a bit of a health boost, olive oil in brownies is a good choice.

Choosing the Right Olive Oil for Brownies

Extra Virgin vs. Regular Olive Oil

When you’re putting together an olive oil brownie mix, you don’t want to leave your choice of olive oil to chance. That’s why adding Big Paw extra virgin olive oil in brownies is a great idea. The flavor our extra virgin olive oil imparts to brownie batter perfectly complements the chocolate’s richness, without the heaviness or overpowering flavor that some regular olive oils can add. Some people use olive oil as a butter substitute for health reasons. Others use it if they just want to try something new (or if they are out of butter). We think you’ll find Big Paw Olive Oil a great way to make your brownies unforgettably delicious. In addition to California Gold, you may wish to try our other extra virgin olive oils, including some of our flavored oils.

Olive Oil Brownies for Special Diets

Olive oil is a cornerstone of heart-healthy eating patterns, particularly in the Mediterranean diet. It serves as the primary source of fat that can help reduce harmful LDL cholesterol levels while maintaining beneficial HDL cholesterol. Additionally, olive oil helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) from other foods.

Why Should You Use Olive Oil In Brownies?

For individuals following a Mediterranean diet, olive oil serves as more than just a cooking staple. It is an enjoyable part of the eating experience. In addition to baking, olive oil is used in dips, salads, and diverse savory and sweet dishes. This makes olive oil not just a substitute for less healthy fats but an actively beneficial addition to any heart-healthy diet. Using it in brownies is yet another way to incorporate this healthy food into your menus.

Try Olive Oil as a Dessert Delight!

It’s interesting and fun to try new culinary pairings. While olive oil used in desserts and particularly brownies isn’t universally new, you may not have tried it yourself. Olive oil can be used in place of butter in the batter itself and as the ultimate topper for a fantastic finish. Why not add creamy, marshmallow, or other sweet toppings to your brownies, with a final flourish of olive oil for a taste statement?!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is olive oil better for brownies?

Light, extra virgin olive oil can work in brownies well and may add a subtle, fruity flavor that some people enjoy.

2. Can I use olive oil for baking?

Yes, olive oil works well in baking. It is a favorite among bakers who like to pair it with chocolate in desserts and traditional recipes.

3. Can you use extra virgin olive oil in brownies?

Extra virgin olive oil can be used in brownies. We recommend Big Paw Olive Oil’s California Gold for the best taste pairing with chocolate brownie batter.