Cottage Cheese Brownies

Get ready to have your mind blown with these incredible Cottage Cheese Brownies. I know what you’re thinking – cottage cheese in brownies? Trust me, this unexpected ingredient is the secret to a batch of unbelievably fudgy, moist, and secretly protein-packed chocolate treats. Prepare to be amazed!

Try these Brown Butter Brownies too!

Why You Will Absolutely Love This Cottage Cheese Brownie Recipe:

This recipe isn’t just another brownie; it’s a revelation! Here’s why you’ll be adding it to your regular baking rotation:

• Surprisingly Fudgy: Thanks to the blended cottage cheese, these brownies boast an unbelievably fudgy and moist texture.
• Protein-Packed: While they taste like a pure indulgence, the cottage cheese subtly adds a boost of protein, making them a more satisfying dessert.
• Gluten Free Friendly: Using gluten free flour makes these brownies accessible for those with dietary restrictions, without compromising on taste or texture.
• Simple and Straightforward: With clear instructions and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: With cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips, these brownies deliver a deep, satisfying chocolate experience.
• Reduced Sugar Option: The use of coconut sugar offers a slightly less refined sweetness compared to traditional white sugar.
• For another healthier dessert, try these Brownie Stuffed Cookies!
• Serve warm with a scoop of my Cottage Cheese Ice Cream for the ultimate dessert!

Ingredients & Substitutes

These are the main ingredients and substitutions for these cottage cheese brownies. Scroll down to the recipe card for the full ingredients list and instructions.

First, melt the chocolate. I prefer using coconut sugar dark chocolate for this. Hu Kitchen is my favorite brand.

Coconut sugar naturally sweetens these high protein brownies. If desired, feel free to use brown sugar.

Blend the cottage cheese in your blender or food processor. Blend until creamy. This prevents any large curds.

Use your choice of milk. Both regular dairy milk and dairy free milk work well.

Cocoa powder adds the rich chocolate flavor.

Gluten free flour or regular flour can be used. I am gluten free, so I used King Arthur gluten free flour.

Just a little baking soda helps these dense brownies rise slightly.

Lastly, fold in dark chocolate chips to the brownie batter.

Taste & Texture

These Cottage Cheese Brownies are everything you want in a brownie and more. The taste is rich and chocolatey, with a perfect balance of sweetness that isn’t overpowering.

The texture is the true star – incredibly fudgy, dense, and moist, with a delightful chewiness from the chocolate chips. You won’t detect any hint of cottage cheese in the flavor. It simply works its magic to create an unparalleled richness and a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

How to Make

Step 1

First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8 inch square pan with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, add the melted chocolate, blended cottage cheese, and coconut sugar. Stir together.

Step 3

Then, add in the milk. Stir to combine. The batter will be runny.

Step 4

Next, add in the gluten free flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda. Stir. The batter will be thick.

Step 5

Fold in the chocolate chips.

Step 6

Transfer the batter to the lined pan. Spread into an even layer.

Step 7

Bake for 20 to 21 minutes or until just barely set in the middle.

Step 8

Finally, remove the pan from the oven. Cool the cottage cheese brownies fully before slicing into.

Expert Tips for Success

Follow these helpful expert tips and tricks to make perfect cottage cheese brownies.

Blend Your Cottage Cheese Smoothly: This is crucial! Ensure your cottage cheese is completely smooth and free of lumps before adding it to the batter. A high-speed blender works best for this.

Don’t Overbake! This is perhaps the most important tip. Brownies are notorious for drying out when overbaked. Bake for just 20-21 minutes, or until the middle is barely set. They will continue to cook slightly as they cool and firm up.

Cool Completely: Patience is a virtue here! Resist the urge to slice into warm brownies. Cooling them fully allows them to set properly and achieve that perfect fudgy texture.

Use Quality Ingredients: Good quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips will significantly enhance the flavor of your brownies.

Lining the Pan is Key: Parchment paper makes for easy removal and cleanup, ensuring your beautiful brownies come out of the pan in one piece.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins to Customize Your Brownies:

While delicious on their own, these Cottage Cheese Brownies are also great with add-ins!

Nutty Crunch: Fold in half a cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added texture and flavor.

Peppermint Twist: Add half a teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the chocolate for a festive mint-chocolate brownie.

Espresso Boost: Enhance the chocolate flavor by adding a pinch of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients.

Swirl It Up: Before baking, swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter, almond butter, or even cream cheese for a marbled effect and extra flavor.

White Chocolate Delight: Replace half of the dark chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter contrast.

Spice It Up: A pinch of cinnamon or a tiny dash of cayenne pepper can add a subtle warmth and complexity to the chocolate.

How to Serve & Store

These brownies are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions and storage tips.

Serving:

Plain Perfection: Enjoy them as is with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.

A La Mode: A scoop of high protein ice cream on top of a slightly warmed brownie is pure bliss.

Whipped Cream & Berries: A dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh raspberries or strawberries add a lovely freshness.

Storing:

Store leftover Cottage Cheese Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

They can also be frozen for longer storage (up to 2-3 months). Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Equipment Needed

Pre-Cut Parchment Paper Sheets: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Pyrex 3 Glass Mixing Bowls: I use these mixing bowls every time I make these cottage cheese brownies.

Check out all of my kitchen favorites!

You May Also Enjoy

• Avocado Brownies: another brownie recipe with clean ingredients
• Protein Brownies: get more protein in with these high protein brownies
• Almond Flour Brownies: another favorite brownie recipe
• Oreo Brownies: a fun way to switch up the classic brownie recipe
• Small Batch Brownies: just a little something sweet

If you make this cottage cheese brownie recipe, I would really appreciate a review! You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. I would love for you to follow along!  For more sweet treats, check out these Dessert Recipes.