Quick Answer
Yes, it is absolutely okay to use coconut oil in brownie mix. Coconut oil can be used to replace some or all of the butter or vegetable oil called for in a brownie recipe. It will provide moisture and richness while also imparting a subtle coconut flavor.
Can You Substitute Coconut Oil for Butter in Brownies?
Yes, coconut oil can be substituted for butter in brownie recipes. Butter provides moisture and fat to brownies, which results in a rich, decadent texture. Coconut oil can replicate both the moisture and fat content of butter.
When substituting coconut oil for butter, use the same amount of coconut oil as the amount of butter called for. If the recipe calls for 1 cup of butter, use 1 cup of coconut oil. The coconut oil will melt into the batter just like the butter would.
One thing to note is that coconut oil is slightly sweeter than butter. So using coconut oil instead of butter may make the brownies a bit sweeter. If you want to avoid adding extra sweetness, you can use half butter and half coconut oil.
Can You Use Coconut Oil Instead of Vegetable Oil in Brownies?
Coconut oil can definitely be used in place of vegetable oil, such as canola or corn oil, in brownie recipes. Vegetable oil is used to add moisture and fat to brownie batter. Coconut oil can provide the same effects, as it is high in healthy fats.
Substitute coconut oil using a 1:1 ratio. If the brownie recipe calls for 1/2 cup vegetable oil, use 1/2 cup coconut oil instead. The coconut oil will mix into the batter just as vegetable oil would.
One difference is that coconut oil is solid at room temperature, while vegetable oils are liquid. Be sure to melt the coconut oil first so that it incorporates smoothly into the brownie batter.
Benefits of Using Coconut Oil in Brownies
Here are some of the benefits you can gain by using coconut oil in your brownie recipe:
Healthier Fat Profile
Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are metabolized differently than most other fats. MCTs are sent straight to the liver where they can be used as an immediate energy source. This makes coconut oil a healthier choice than butter or vegetable oil.
Subtle Coconut Flavor
Coconut oil will impart a very subtle coconutty essence to brownies. For most people, this delicate coconut flavor enhances the chocolatey richness. If you want a more intense coconut presence, combine the coconut oil with shredded coconut.
Moist, Chewy Texture
The fatty acid composition of coconut oil helps retain moisture in baked goods. Using coconut oil in brownies results in a fudgy, chewy texture. The brownies stay moist and don’t dry out for days after baking.
Vegan Option
Coconut oil gives vegans and dairy-free bakers an excellent butter substitute for brownies. It provides the fat and moisture needed to make decadent, plant-based brownies.
Downsides of Using Coconut Oil in Brownies
There are a couple potential downsides to keep in mind:
Coconut Flavor
While subtle in most recipes, coconut oil will impart a slight coconut flavor. For some, this enhances chocolate baked goods. But if you don’t want any coconut flavor, stick to regular butter or vegetable oil.
Oil Separation
If you live in a very warm climate, the brownies may weep a bit of coconut oil. The fatty acids in coconut oil have a lower melting point than butter or vegetable oils. So you may see some oil separation, especially if storing the brownies at temperatures above 76°F.
How to Use Coconut Oil in Brownie Mix
Making brownies from a boxed mix? Coconut oil can work great in those recipes too. Here are some tips:
– Check the instructions on your brownie mix. Some brands specifically state that you can substitute coconut oil for the butter or oil called for. If so, simply use the amount they recommend.
– If your mix doesn’t mention coconut oil, you can still swap it in using a 1:1 ratio for the butter or oil amount.
– Since boxed mixes already contain sugar and cocoa powder, the coconut oil won’t add excess sweetness. Feel free to use 100% coconut oil without diluting it with butter.
– Make sure to melt the coconut oil before adding it to the brownie batter. Try microwaving it for 20-30 seconds. Stir it into the batter well so it fully incorporates.
– Consider adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to complement the coconut oil flavor. The coconut essence pairs especially well with vanilla or almond extracts too.
Best Practices When Using Coconut Oil in Brownies
Here are some top tips for successfully using coconut oil in any brownie recipe:
– Always melt the coconut oil before adding it to the batter. Measure it in its solid form first, then heat it until just liquefied. Let it cool slightly so it doesn’t curdle the eggs.
– Stick to refined or deodorized coconut oil. Unrefined coconut oil has a very strong flavor that may overpower the chocolate.
– If you don’t want any coconut taste, use half coconut oil and half butter or vegetable oil.
– Store brownies made with coconut oil in the refrigerator or freezer if your climate is very warm. This prevents oil separation.
– Add a bit more flour if the batter seems overly greasy after adding the coconut oil. Start with 1-2 tbsp extra flour.
– Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for neat squares with defined edges. Freshly baked brownies made with coconut oil are delicate.
– Enjoy brownies made with coconut oil within 5 days for peak quality. The coconut oil allows them to stay moist for longer than brownies made with butter or vegetable oil.
Coconut Oil Brownie Recipes
Here are a couple delicious brownie recipes that harness the benefits of coconut oil:
Fudgy Coconut Oil Brownies
Ingredients:
– 1⁄2 cup coconut oil, melted and slightly cooled
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 eggs, at room temperature
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1⁄3 cup cocoa powder, sifted
– 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1⁄4 tsp salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. Whisk melted coconut oil with the sugar until combined. Mix in eggs and vanilla.
3. Add cocoa powder, flour and salt. Fold batter until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Fold in chocolate chips, then transfer batter to prepared pan.
5. Bake 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
6. Allow brownies to cool completely before slicing.
Coconut Oil Blondies
Ingredients:
– 1⁄2 cup coconut oil, melted and slightly cooled
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 eggs
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1⁄2 tsp salt
– 1 cup mix-ins like butterscotch chips, macadamia nuts, white chocolate chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk melted coconut oil with brown sugar. Mix in eggs and vanilla.
3. In another bowl, stir together flour, baking powder and salt.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients. Fold batter gently just until combined.
5. Fold in mix-ins of choice. Transfer batter to prepared pan.
6. Bake 24-28 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before cutting.
Storing and Freezing Brownies Made with Coconut Oil
Brownies made with coconut oil will stay fresh at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to one week. Wrap the cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
You can also freeze brownies with coconut oil for up to 3 months. Let the baked brownies cool completely first, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Thaw frozen brownies overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
If you notice any oil separation during storage, know that it’s purely aesthetic and won’t affect the flavor at all. Just be sure to stir the brownies before serving so the texture is uniform.
Coconut Oil FAQs
Does coconut oil make brownies cakey?
Coconut oil should not make brownies cakey. It mimics the moisture, richness and fat content provided by butter or vegetable oil. As long as you don’t overbake them, brownies made with coconut oil will be fudgy with a tender, chewy crumb.
Can I use coconut oil in boxed brownie mix?
Yes, absolutely! Check the instructions on the box, as some brands provide specific guidance on using coconut oil. If not mentioned, simply substitute it for the butter or oil the recipe calls for in a 1:1 ratio. The coconut flavor pairs nicely with any mix-ins you want to add too.
What’s the difference between refined and unrefined coconut oil?
Refined coconut oil has been processed to remove the coconut flavor and aroma. Unrefined coconut oil is not treated, so it retains a strong coconut essence. For brownies, refined or deodorized coconut oil allows you to benefit from the fat and moisture without adding a dominant coconut taste.
Does coconut oil change the texture of brownies?
Coconut oil enhances the chewy, fudgy texture of brownies. The high saturated fat content helps the brownies retain moisture. And coconut oil solidifies when cool, which contributes to a dense, cake-like crumb. The brownies may be a bit more delicate, so cool completely before cutting.
Conclusion
Coconut oil can be an amazing secret ingredient for homemade or boxed brownie mixes. It provides moisture, richness, and subtle coconut essence without overpowering the chocolate flavor. Swap it evenly for the butter or oil called for in any recipe. Be sure to melt and cool the coconut oil properly so it blends smoothly into the batter. Store brownies made with coconut oil in the fridge or freezer to prevent any oil separation. When used correctly, coconut oil takes brownies to the next level of decadence!