The ovens were hot and the competition even hotter at this year’s Niagara County Fair Brownie Baking Competition, held in honor of the Erie Canal Bicentennial. With a dozen mouthwatering entries, the contest paid tribute to 200 years of canal history — and the legendary barge cook Oliver Wendell Petrie, said to have served rich, chocolate brownies to the crew of the Empire State oil tanker in the late 1930s.
The competition was a true celebration of culinary creativity, honoring the sweet legacy of Petrie while showcasing the talent and passion of local bakers. After careful tasting and deliberation by a panel of judges, the top three winners were chosen. Third place was secured by Olivia Bidale of Lockport, who submitted caramel cashew brownie. Sylvia Gugino of Sanborn brought home second place for her peanut butter blossom brownie. First place was locked in by Cynthia McCarver of Amherst with a classic chocolate brownie.
First through third place earned an Erie Canal Bicentennial Brownie Competition rosette, sweet bragging rights, and a place in Erie Canal culinary lore. All contestants received a commemorative Erie Canal Bicentennial Brownie Competition ribbon. Recipes for the winning brownies can be found online at www.niagaracountyfair.com.