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: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve always been on the lookout for a dessert that combines indulgence with a nutritious twist, and these cottage cheese brownies with dark chocolate hit the jackpot. The creamy texture of cottage cheese seamlessly blends into the batter, creating a fudgy consistency that I can’t resist. Not only do they satisfy my chocolate cravings, but I also feel a little bit healthier knowing they have added protein. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, or simply when I need a moment of self-care with something sweet.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:04:21.905Z

When I first decided to try using cottage cheese in my brownie recipe, I was skeptical. I couldn't imagine how it would affect the flavor and texture. But after experimenting a few times, I found that it made for an incredibly moist brownie with a rich chocolate taste. The trick is to blend the cottage cheese until smooth before adding it to the batter.

Another revelation was using dark chocolate rather than milk chocolate. The depth of flavor complements the slight tanginess of the cottage cheese beautifully. If you’re like me, and enjoy a bit more chocolate goodness in each bite, don’t skimp on quality chocolate. It truly makes a difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy cottage cheese
Fudgy texture that satisfies every chocolate lover’s dream
Easily adaptable with different mix-ins like nuts or berries

      

Unlocking the Creamy Base

Using blended cottage cheese instead of traditional butter or oil adds a creamy richness while boosting the protein content of these brownies. When blending, make sure the cottage cheese is smooth to prevent any curd texture from affecting the final product. This alternative not only keeps the brownies moist but also creates a fudgier texture that's satisfying without being too heavy.

If you're concerned about the flavor of cottage cheese, fear not! The melted dark chocolate and the combination of sugars will overshadow any residual tang, providing rich chocolate goodness. This makes it ideal for those looking to sneak in some extra nutrients without sacrificing taste.

Chocolate Choices Matter

Opting for quality dark chocolate is essential in this recipe. The higher the cocoa content, the richer your brownies will be. I recommend using chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids for a deep flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the sugars. If you prefer milk chocolate, adjust the sugar levels accordingly to balance the sweetness, but be aware that it may impact the overall flavor profile.

Additionally, the chocolate chips you choose to fold in at the end can drastically alter the texture and flavor. Try using semi-sweet chips for a balanced sweetness or go for bittersweet for an adult taste. You could even add white chocolate chips for a fun contrast—just be mindful of the overall sugar content in the final bake.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started with your delicious cottage cheese brownies.

Ingredients

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

Once you have everything ready, follow the steps below to create your tasty brownies.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to make the best cottage cheese brownies.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, melted dark chocolate, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. If desired, fold in chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy!

These brownies are perfect to enjoy on their own or served warm with a scoop of ice cream.

Pro Tips

For added texture and flavor, consider including nuts or a swirl of peanut butter in the batter before baking.

Serving and Enjoying

Once your brownies are out of the oven and cooled, consider enhancing their presentation by dusting them with cocoa powder or a sprinkling of sea salt. This simple addition enhances the chocolate flavor while adding a touch of sophistication. You can also serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat, making it a delightful contrast with the fudgy texture.

For a more indulgent twist, try drizzling melted dark chocolate over the top before slicing. Not only does this elevate the flavor, but it makes for a visually stunning presentation that’s sure to impress at gatherings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be prepared in advance, making them an excellent option for busy weeks. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days or refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to extend their life further, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure each brownie is individually wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen brownies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm them in the microwave for just 10-15 seconds. This will revive their fudgy texture and make them feel fresh-baked, perfect for a quick chocolate fix!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese can be used, but it might slightly change the texture.

→ Is it possible to freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as substitutes to make these brownies egg-free.

→ How do I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.