Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dark Chocolate

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dark Chocolate
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Moments Studio

I love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dark Chocolate because they are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The cottage cheese gives the brownies a moist and fudgy texture while keeping them lighter than traditional recipes. Each bite is bursting with rich chocolate flavor complemented by the subtle tanginess of the cottage cheese. Whether I'm serving these at a gathering or indulging on a quiet night in, I can never resist their decadent allure. Get ready to experience a brownie that's both satisfying and surprisingly nutritious!

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:01:21.525Z

When I first experimented with cottage cheese in my baking, I was surprised by how well it complemented chocolate. I decided to add it to my brownie recipe, and the results were astonishing! Not only did the cottage cheese make the brownies incredibly moist, but it also added a unique depth of flavor that took them to the next level.

One tip I found essential is to blend the cottage cheese until smooth before mixing it into the batter. This ensures a velvety texture throughout the brownies, avoiding any clumps. Trust me, this little step will make all the difference in the final result!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy cottage cheese
Moist and fudgy texture that satisfies without the guilt
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick dessert

Understanding the Ingredients

The real star of these Cottage Cheese Brownies is, of course, the cottage cheese itself. By blending it until smooth, it acts as a moisture-retaining agent while also being a lower-fat alternative to oil or butter, which often weighs down brownies. This unique ingredient not only provides a slight tang but also contributes protein, making these brownies a more balanced treat. If you're dairy-free, consider using a silken tofu substitute blended to a similar consistency.

The choice of dark chocolate chips is another essential element in this recipe. Opt for a chocolate that is at least 60% cocoa; this ensures a rich flavor that balances the sweetness of the sugars. If you're looking to reduce added sugars, you might try using bittersweet or unsweetened chocolate instead. Just make sure to adjust the sugar content to taste, as these options can dramatically alter the brownies' sweetness.

Baking Techniques for Perfect Brownies

When mixing the wet ingredients, be sure to blend the cottage cheese thoroughly to prevent lumps. This will ensure a smooth batter, allowing the brownies to rise uniformly. An immersion blender works well here, but a standard blender or food processor is also suitable. It’s crucial to mix just until combined when incorporating the dry ingredients; overmixing can result in tougher brownies due to gluten development.

While baking, keep a close eye on your brownies. At the 20-minute mark, you can start checking for doneness. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with moist crumbs, signaling that the brownies are done but still fudgy. If it’s clean, they may be overbaked. Remember, they will continue cooking slightly as they cool, so it’s better to err on the side of slightly underbaked.

Ingredients

Brownie Batter

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup dark chocolate chips

Mix well and bake for a delicious treat!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine blended cottage cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious brownies!

Serve these brownies warm for an extra chocolaty experience!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try sprinkling some sea salt on top before baking or serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies are delightful on their own, but they pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For added texture, consider sprinkling toasted nuts on top before baking, or serving them with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. A drizzle of chocolate sauce also elevates their decadent nature, making them a go-to dessert for any gathering.

Storing your brownies properly is key to enjoying them at their best. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them. Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months, and when you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature or reheat them gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with flavorings in your brownie batter! Adding a teaspoon of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor immensely. You could also incorporate different mix-ins like chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or dried fruits for a unique twist. If you want to make these brownies even more indulgent, layer additional chocolate chips or a peanut butter swirl into the batter before baking.

For a healthier twist, consider substituting part of the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like agave syrup or honey. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the liquid ingredients in your mix. Additionally, using whole wheat flour can add some nutrients while contributing to a nuttier flavor. Make sure to watch the baking time, as these substitutions could alter the texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese will work well for a lighter option.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for a vegan version.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch.