Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I have to admit, I was skeptical when I first thought of using cottage cheese in brownies. But after a few trials, I’ve discovered that it’s a game-changer. The cottage cheese adds a richness and moisture that makes these brownies incredibly fudgy, all while sneaking in a bit of extra protein. Trust me, your family and friends will never guess there’s cottage cheese in these delicious treats. Perfect for a satisfyingly sweet snack or a delightful dessert after dinner!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:37:10.365Z

When I decided to create a healthier brownie, I knew I wanted to experiment with cottage cheese as a base. The first batch was a bit too dry, but with a few tweaks to the ratios and baking time, I finally nailed the perfect fudgy consistency. The result is a brownie that’s not only delicious but also packs a nutritional punch!

By blending the cottage cheese smoothly, you achieve a creamy texture that integrates perfectly with the cocoa. I also learned that baking them just a minute less than usual keeps them extra soft in the middle. These tips really helped me elevate the brownies to a new level that everyone loves!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor complemented by creamy cottage cheese
Fudgy texture that satisfies your chocolate cravings
A healthier alternative without compromising taste

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

The addition of cottage cheese not only enhances the fudginess of these brownies but also adds a surprising depth of flavor. The cheesy undertones blend seamlessly with the rich cocoa, creating a balanced dessert that is both unique and indulgent. Plus, the high protein content from the cottage cheese lightens the guilt of enjoying a chocolate treat, making it a smart choice for health-conscious bakers.

When incorporated into the brownie batter, cottage cheese acts as a binding agent and provides moisture that prevents the brownies from becoming dry. This is crucial, as traditional brownies sometimes lack the necessary moisture. If you're concerned about texture, feel free to mix in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for a creamier consistency.

Baking Tips for Perfection

One important tip for achieving the perfect brownie texture is to not overmix the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, as the gluten in the flour becomes too developed. Mix just until you see no dry flour; the batter should be thick but smooth. Additionally, consider using a rubber spatula to gently fold in the dry ingredients, ensuring you don’t overwork the mixture.

Make sure to check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer, as inaccurate temperatures can affect baking results. A too-hot oven can cause the brownies to puff up and then collapse, while a too-cool oven may result in a gummy center. For best results, bake until the edges pull away slightly from the pans and a toothpick comes out with only a few moist crumbs.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delectable brownies!

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Blend the Cottage Cheese

In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly.

Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl before gradually incorporating them into the wet mixture.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing them into squares. Enjoy your delicious cottage cheese brownies!

Cool completely for the best texture before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chocolate chips on top of the batter before baking. They’ll melt into the brownies and enhance the chocolate flavor.

Storing and Serving

You can store these cottage cheese brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator, where they will last up to a week. If you prefer to freeze them, cut the brownies into squares, wrap each piece individually, and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

These brownies can be served on their own, but they shine even more with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You might also consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving to enhance the richness. If you want to elevate them further, a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries make for a beautiful presentation.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different types of cocoa powder for these brownies. Dutch-processed cocoa will yield a darker, richer brownie, while natural cocoa can provide a more intense chocolate flavor. You might also consider stirring in chocolate chips, nuts, or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you add a significant amount of extra ingredients.

If you want a grain-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Note that almond flour can make the brownies a bit denser, so you may need to reduce the baking time. Exploring these variations allows you to adapt the recipe for dietary needs while keeping the delicious flavor intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese with something else?

Yes, you can try Greek yogurt, but the texture may differ slightly.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

No, but you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

→ How should I store the leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.