Rich Chocolate Cottage Cheese Brownies

Name: Rich Chocolate Cottage Cheese Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, drained; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Treats & Confections

I absolutely love these Rich Chocolate Cottage Cheese Brownies! The combination of rich chocolate and creamy cottage cheese creates a dessert that's both indulgent and surprisingly nutritious. When I first discovered this recipe, I was skeptical about using cottage cheese in brownies, but the results blew my mind. They are moist, packed with flavor, and you won't even notice the cottage cheese. Perfect for satisfying my chocolate cravings without feeling guilty, I promise you will love them just as much as I do!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:42:31.100Z

When I first made these brownies, I was amazed by how well the cottage cheese blended into the batter. It lends a creamy texture that keeps the brownies incredibly moist without adding excess fat. I typically use a good-quality cocoa powder for a deep flavor, and I’ve found that using an electric mixer helps achieve the perfect consistency.

I gambled a bit with adding a splash of vanilla extract, which elevated the taste profile and made it even more irresistible. These brownies are perfect for gatherings or when I'm craving something sweet without the full-on guilt of traditional desserts!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy cottage cheese
Decadent yet surprisingly lower in calories
Great for those who want a guilt-free indulgence
Easy to make with simple ingredients

      

Perfecting the Texture

Getting the fudgy texture just right is essential for these brownies. The cottage cheese provides moisture and richness without making them overly dense. Ensure you thoroughly blend the cottage cheese so there are no lumps; this will create a smooth batter that bakes evenly. If you're using a hand mixer, start on low speed to prevent splattering, then increase to medium until you've achieved a creamy consistency.

Baking time is crucial; overbaking can lead to dry brownies. Start checking at the 20-minute mark. When a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. Allowing them to cool completely in the pan before cutting will also help maintain their moist texture, as they'll continue to firm up slightly as they cool.

Ingredient Insights

Using high-quality cocoa powder can significantly enhance the chocolate flavor. Opt for Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper, richer taste. The sugar not only sweetens the brownies but also contributes to their fudgy texture, so don't try to reduce it too much unless using a direct sugar substitute that mimics granulated sugar's properties.

The addition of chocolate chips is key for both texture and flavor. Feel free to use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate experience or even white chocolate chips if you prefer a contrast in flavor. Just make sure to fold them in gently to avoid melting them into the batter too much before baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese, drained
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious brownies:

Preheat the oven

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

Blend the ingredients

In a mixing bowl, blend together the cottage cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, flour, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt until smooth. You can use a hand mixer or food processor for the best results.

Add chocolate chips

Stir in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and enjoy

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your rich chocolate treats!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider sprinkling some sea salt on top before baking for a delightful contrast in flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies store beautifully! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you'd like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for several months. To freeze, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds for a warm, fresh-tasting treat.

For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it covered in the fridge. Just remember to bring the batter back to room temperature before baking for even cooking and to ensure the brownies rise properly.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these brownies warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, elevates the experience. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top right before serving for a delightful contrast to the sweet chocolate flavor. I personally love drizzling them with a bit of melted chocolate or a rich chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent treat.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or a swirl of nut butter into the batter before baking. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely texture contrast to the fudgy brownies. Feel free to experiment with flavors like almond or hazelnut for a unique twist!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works just fine and will keep your brownies deliciously moist.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add nuts to the brownie mix?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch and flavor.

→ What can I substitute for sugar?

You can use alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, adjusting the liquid ingredients accordingly.