Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa whenever I need a quick chocolate fix. These brownies are not only rich and decadent but surprisingly high in protein thanks to the cottage cheese. The blend of cocoa and cottage cheese creates a unique texture that is both moist and fluffy. Plus, they come together in just a bit of time, making them perfect for unexpected guests or a cozy night in. I love serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:07:13.286Z

When I first experimented with Cottage Cheese in brownies, I was amazed at the results. The texture was incredibly moist without being overly dense, which I find often happens with traditional brownie recipes. I used unsweetened cocoa powder, ensuring that the sweetness from the sugar came through without being overwhelming. This balance allows the chocolate flavor to shine while the cottage cheese adds a lovely creaminess to every bite.

One tip I discovered while making them is to let the brownies cool before cutting. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and helps in achieving clean cuts, resulting in perfectly shaped brownies. Trust me; the wait is worth it when the brownies come out looking picture-perfect!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor enhanced by creamy cottage cheese
Guilt-free indulgence packed with protein
Perfectly moist texture that satisfies any sweet tooth
Quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for spontaneous cravings

      

Understanding Ingredients

The star ingredient of these Cottage Cheese Brownies is, of course, the cottage cheese itself. Not only does it add moisture, but its protein content helps achieve a rich, fluffy texture without weighing down the brownies. For the best results, choose a smooth cottage cheese, as chunky varieties can impact the brownies' consistency. If you're looking to make a dairy-free version, consider using a silken tofu blend as a substitute, though this may alter the flavor slightly.

Using unsweetened cocoa powder is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the sugar in this recipe. The cocoa's natural bitterness enhances the chocolate flavor while keeping these brownies from becoming overly sweet. If you prefer a slightly sweeter chocolate profile, you could swap out half the cocoa for a high-quality melted dark chocolate, just be mindful of the additional liquid content this will introduce.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking, always ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the brownies inside. This temperature helps the brownies puff properly and develop that perfect, inviting crust. If you notice the edges browning too quickly while the center is still gooey, try lowering the oven temperature by 25°F (approximately 14°C) and extending the baking time slightly, checking for doneness with a toothpick at the 30-minute mark.

For a fun twist, consider adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter to the batter before baking. If you choose to include chocolate chips, adding about half a cup can enhance the chocolate flavor and provide delightful pockets of melted chocolate throughout. Just make sure to adjust the sugar slightly, depending on how sweet your mix-ins are.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

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

Mix all ingredients until smooth and pour into the baking dish.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, cocoa powder, sugar, flour, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting them into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious cottage cheese brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some chocolate chips on top of the brownies before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to five days at room temperature. To keep them fresh, I recommend placing parchment paper between layers if you're stacking them. If you wish to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

When freezing, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-lock freezer bag. Thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before serving. For a warm treat, you can pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, restoring their moist, fudgy texture.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving these Cottage Cheese Brownies warm and topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, adding a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. A dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate the presentation, while a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel adds an extra layer of indulgence if you're feeling adventurous.

For those who enjoy a hint of fruit, consider pairing these brownies with fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side. The tartness of the berries beautifully complements the rich chocolate flavor, making it a refreshing addition to each bite. You might also experiment with a simple whipped cream topping for a light finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt can work as a substitute for cottage cheese, but it will change the texture slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter for added flavor.