That's interesting what you wrote about canola oil having a unique taste/smell. I never noticed that.

My brownies turned out great and fudgy with the extra virgin olive oil. Perhaps if I had had regular or light olive oil that would have been a better choice (cheaper and less fragrant), but I only have extra virgin. I don't mind that faint taste in them at all. I love olives! I think my brownies could still be good with slightly less oil.