Can I use sour cream instead of oil in brownies?

You can't directly replace oil with sour cream in a brownie recipe. They serve very different functions:

* Oil adds moisture, richness, and tenderness to brownies. It also helps with the browning process.

* Sour cream adds tanginess and moisture, but it lacks the fat content of oil, which is crucial for the texture of brownies.

Here's why substituting sour cream for oil won't work:

* Texture: The lack of fat in sour cream will result in dense, dry brownies.

* Flavor: The tanginess of sour cream may clash with the chocolate flavor.

* Browning: Sour cream won't help with the browning process, resulting in pale brownies.

Instead of replacing oil with sour cream, consider these options:

* Use a combination of oil and sour cream: You can use a smaller amount of oil and a bit of sour cream to add moisture and tanginess without compromising the texture.

* Use applesauce: Applesauce is a healthier alternative to oil and can add moisture and a subtle sweetness.

* Use mashed bananas: Bananas are another good source of moisture and can add a hint of banana flavor.

If you want to make brownies with sour cream, use a recipe specifically designed for it. These recipes typically use less oil or no oil at all and may incorporate ingredients like buttermilk or yogurt for tanginess.

Remember that experimenting with recipes can be fun, but it's important to understand the role of each ingredient to achieve the desired results.