Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dark Cocoa Powder

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dark Cocoa Powder
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, pureed; 1/2 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love baking with cottage cheese, especially when it comes to making brownies. These Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dark Cocoa Powder are a delightful twist on traditional brownies. The cottage cheese adds moisture and a protein boost, making them a little healthier without sacrificing flavor. I've experimented with various techniques, and I find that incorporating the cottage cheese into the batter enhances the richness of the cocoa while giving these brownies a fudgy texture. Trust me, they won’t last long once you start serving them!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:40:50.405Z

When I first decided to use cottage cheese in brownies, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. To my surprise, the subtly creamy texture blended beautifully with the rich dark cocoa powder. As I mixed everything together, I could already tell that these brownies would become a family favorite. To achieve the perfect balance, I made sure to blend the cottage cheese until smooth, ensuring no lumps would disrupt the fudgy consistency.

I love that these brownies are not only delicious but also pack in some extra protein, making them great for a post-workout snack or a sweet treat during the day. A little tip: be cautious not to overbake them; they will set further as they cool, leaving you with a perfect, gooey center!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor with deep cocoa undertones
Fudgy texture that satisfies any chocolate craving
A healthier twist with added protein from cottage cheese

Understanding Ingredients

The star of these brownies is undoubtedly the cottage cheese. When pureed, it seamlessly blends into the batter, contributing moisture without the heaviness of traditional fat sources. This substitution not only lightens the overall recipe but also packs in extra protein. If you find yourself without cottage cheese, Greek yogurt can make a great substitute, delivering a similar creamy texture and protein content.

Dark cocoa powder is essential for achieving the rich, decadent flavor profile of these brownies. Unlike regular cocoa powder, dark cocoa has a deeper, more intense flavor, which complements the sweetness of the sugar. Be sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best results. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute it with regular cocoa powder, but the brownies will have a slightly milder taste.

Perfecting the Technique

It’s crucial to mix the wet ingredients thoroughly before adding the dry ones. This ensures that the sugar dissolves completely, helping to create a smooth and even batter. I like to use a whisk or an electric mixer on low speed for this step—aim for a mixture that's glossy and homogenous. When incorporating the dry ingredients, mix gently until you see no more flour streaks; overmixing can lead to tough brownies.

Timing is key when baking these brownies. As they bake, look for the edges to set with a slightly softer center. The toothpick test is a reliable way to check doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, signaling that the brownies are fudgy but not undercooked. Remove them from the oven promptly to avoid overbaking, as they continue to cook slightly after being taken out.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan.

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the pureed cottage cheese, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift together the dark cocoa powder, flour, and salt before gradually adding it to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Pro Tips

For even richer flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking. You can also serve these brownies with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Storage Tips

To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, which can keep them good for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

For longer storage, these brownies can be frozen. I like to cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delicious on their own, but consider elevating them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can also add a beautiful presentation and extra flavor complexity.

For a fun twist, try adding mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a hint of espresso powder to the batter before baking. Each variation will bring a unique flavor profile, making these brownies versatile for different occasions and preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well, but it may result in slightly less richness.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger baking pan or bake them in batches.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.