* I make a fudgy , rich chocolate brownies with extra virgin olive oil that will become a family favourite. The fruity notes of extra virgin olive oil are an unexpected but perfect complement to bittersweet chocolate. I show you how to get tender, fudgy brownies that are not too sweet with a flavour the whole family will love. FULL RECIPE BELOW :

Chocolate Olive Oil Brownies
* It is essential that you use a fruity , superior quality olive oil . I used a Greek ( no surprise) oil from the Kalamata region which is fruity with a slightly peppery finish but super crisp.

100 gm bitter sweet choc ( 3 oz. ) + 25 gm cocoa powder ( ¼ cup )
1/3 cup good quality fruity extra virgin olive oil ( 75 ml)
60 gm - 1/3 cup all purpose flour (75 ml)
½ tsp. baking powder (2.5 ml)
1.5 gm 1/4 tsp. salt
2 eggs
110 gm ½ cup dark brown sugar(125 ml)
1 tsp vanilla ( 5ml)
1/2 cup nuts of choice , optional (125 ml) hazelnuts, walnuts, pecans or pistachios

Preheat oven to 350 D.
* if you want more texture on top , use a convection setting and be sure to check the baking time.
Line an 8x8 “ square baking dish with parchment paper or brush with butter.

Melt chocolate over a double boiler over barely simmering water. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Whisk in olive oil until smooth.

In another medium bowl whisk together, eggs, sugar, vanilla and salt until pale and sugar has dissolved. Fold in chocolate mixture. Sift together flour, baking powder and cocoa powder, if using . Add to mixture and stir with wooden spoon or spatula until completely blended. Fold in nuts, if using.

Pour batter into prepared pan and bake in oven at 350 D. for 15-17 minutes, until set but still moist in centre but crackly on top. The time will depend based on your oven, the material of your pan . If you want a super fudgy brownie, take them out around the 15 minute mark, when a tester comes out with crumbs on it . For a lighter , cakey outcome, you can cook it for a few more minutes.

Remove and cool to room temperature. Cut into squares and store in sealed container.

Serves 8