Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love baking these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa whenever I crave something sweet yet a bit healthier! The unique addition of cottage cheese not only adds protein but also keeps the brownies wonderfully moist. I've experimented with different chocolate levels, but I’ve found that a rich cocoa powder perfectly balances the flavors. The key to making them chewy is not overmixing the batter, which I’ve learned is crucial in achieving that perfect texture! Trust me, these brownies are a delightful way to indulge without the guilt.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:40:12.119Z

Baking these brownies with cottage cheese has become one of my favorite pastimes. The idea sparked when I wanted to create a dessert that was more nutritious without sacrificing flavor. After several trials, I found that the creaminess of the cottage cheese blended beautifully with cocoa, creating a rich, satisfying treat.

One tip I've learned is to let the brownies cool completely before cutting them into squares. It may be tempting to dive in while they're warm, but allowing them to set enhances the texture and makes them easier to slice. You'll be amazed at how the flavors deepen as they cool!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy cottage cheese
Easy to make, with simple pantry ingredients
Healthier alternative without losing dessert satisfaction

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a fantastic ingredient in these brownies, not only providing a creamy texture but also a healthy dose of protein. When blended smoothly, it integrates seamlessly into the batter. This is essential because it helps maintain moisture and ensures that the brownies don’t dry out, which can often happen with traditional recipes. Be sure to blend until completely smooth for the best results—any lumps can impact both texture and appearance.

In addition to moisture, cottage cheese contributes to a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with cocoa. While traditional brownies can be dense and heavy, the inclusion of cottage cheese lightens the overall feel, creating a chewy, almost fudgy texture that feels indulgent without the extra calories. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can try using silken tofu as a substitute, but be aware it may slightly alter the flavor.

Achieving Perfect Texture

To get those chewy brownies just right, it’s crucial not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. The flour needs to be just incorporated until you no longer see streaks, which typically takes a few gentle folds. Overmixing can lead to brownies that are tough rather than tender. If using a hand mixer, keep it on a low setting to avoid excessive mixing.

When baking, keep an eye on the time and look for visual cues. You want the edges to pull away slightly from the pan and the top to have a slightly cracked surface. Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean, to ensure a fudgy center. If you're in a higher altitude area, you may need to adjust baking time by a few minutes, so check earlier to avoid overbaking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful treat!

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Ensure all ingredients are fresh 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 an 8x8 inch baking pan.

Blend Cottage Cheese

In a mixing bowl, blend the cottage cheese until smooth using a hand mixer or blender.

Combine Ingredients

Add cocoa powder, sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Mix until well combined.

Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice your delicious brownies and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding chocolate chips to the batter before baking for a gooier texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. For a burst of flavor, sprinkle some sea salt or drizzle melted dark chocolate on top before serving; this contrast enhances the chocolatey richness.

Pairing these brownies with fresh fruits, like raspberries or strawberries, adds a refreshing contrast and can balance the sweetness. You can also serve them as part of a dessert platter, alongside other healthier sweets, for a tempting yet guilt-free treat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Once cooled, the brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer, making them perfect for meal prep or spontaneous cravings.

When you're ready to enjoy them after freezing, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, non-fat cottage cheese works just as well and keeps the brownies light.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well.

→ Can I substitute cocoa powder for something else?

For a different flavor, you can try using carob powder, but it will change the taste of the brownies.