Cottage Cheese Brownies with Chopped Almonds

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Chopped Almonds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped almonds

Highlighted under: Oven Recipes

When I first experimented with these Cottage Cheese Brownies, I was amazed by the incredible balance of flavors and textures. The cottage cheese adds a surprising richness, making these brownies feel indulgent yet lighter than traditional recipes. Incorporating chopped almonds not only enhances the flavor profile but also provides a satisfying crunch. This luscious dessert has quickly become a family favorite, and I love serving it at gatherings. It’s a unique twist on a classic that impresses while satisfying a sweet tooth.

Created by

Greer Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:49:34.783Z

During one of my weekend baking escapades, I decided to put a twist on the standard brownie by adding cottage cheese. I was skeptical at first, worried about the texture, but I was pleasantly surprised by how creamy they turned out. The key was to blend the cottage cheese smoothly before incorporating it into the batter. This step ensures that it integrates well, providing velvety brownies.

Additionally, I found that adding chopped almonds not only improved the taste but also added a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft brownie texture. These are perfect for satisfying my chocolate cravings without the guilt!

Why You Will Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor enhanced by creamy cottage cheese
Crunchy almonds add a delightful texture
Perfect for guilt-free indulgence or as a light dessert option

Understanding Ingredients

The star ingredient in these Cottage Cheese Brownies is the cottage cheese itself, which replaces traditional fats like oil or butter in many recipes. By blending it until smooth, you ensure it incorporates seamlessly into the batter, contributing to a moist texture without overwhelming the chocolate flavor. This substitution also adds protein, making the brownies feel more like a balanced treat rather than just a dessert. If you're dairy-free, look for silken tofu as a substitute, though the flavor will slightly differ.

Cocoa powder is essential for that rich chocolate flavor. Using high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder can elevate the taste significantly—look for brands like Dutch-processed for a deeper flavor profile. For those who prefer more sweetness, you can adjust the amount of brown sugar or granulated sugar, but be careful not to add too much at the risk of compromising the brownies' texture.

Baking Tips

When you're mixing the wet ingredients, ensure that your melted butter is not too hot; otherwise, it can cook the eggs, leading to a scrambled texture. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency without over-mixing, which can lead to denser brownies. Aim for a batter that is glossy and thick but still light, which makes for the perfect brownie texture after baking.

For an even bake, spread the brownie batter evenly in the pan. A rubber spatula works great for this task, helping you to ensure no corners are left too thick or thin. Check the brownies at the 25-minute mark; if the edges are pulling away from the pan and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s time to take them out to avoid drying them out.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped almonds

Instructions

Steps

Preheat and Prepare

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, cocoa powder, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Fold in Almonds

Gently fold in the chopped almonds to distribute them throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Slice

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a richer chocolate flavor, consider adding a splash of espresso to the batter. Also, feel free to substitute the chopped almonds with your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for a different twist.

Storing and Freezing

To store leftover Cottage Cheese Brownies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a humid area, refrigerate them to prevent spoilage. Once they cool completely, they can also be frozen. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They'll stay fresh for about two months. To enjoy them later, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving.

It’s important to note that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the brownies, making them a tad denser. However, a quick microwave for 10-15 seconds can revitalize the taste and soften them back up! This also warms the chocolate flavors, enhancing your dessert experience and allowing you to indulge without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.

Serving Ideas

These Cottage Cheese Brownies are versatile and can be dressed up or down for different occasions. For a simple yet elegant touch, dust with powdered sugar right before serving to give a sophisticated presentation. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich chocolate flavor, especially if you're serving them as a dessert at a gathering.

For a variation, consider adding in different nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for an exciting twist. Walnuts or pecans could complement the chocolate beautifully, or you could even fold in some white chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the dark cocoa. These adaptations not only change the flavor but also provide a different texture and visual appeal that keeps this recipe fresh and fun.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Freeze the brownies in a single layer and transfer them to an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.