Cottage Cheese Brownies with Almond Butter

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Almond Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Dessert Delights Co.

I’ve always been a chocolate lover, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Almond Butter have become my new obsession! The combination of rich cocoa and creamy almond butter creates a beautifully decadent dessert that feels indulgent yet surprisingly wholesome. Using cottage cheese as a base not only adds protein but also keeps the brownies moist and delicious. Whether I’m entertaining guests or simply treating myself, these brownies never fail to impress with their unique texture and flavor!

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:22:06.330Z

When I first tried making brownies with cottage cheese, I was curious to see how the texture would turn out. To my delight, the result was a perfect balance of fudgy goodness and a slight tanginess from the cheese. Since then, I’ve experimented with this recipe to get the right amount of sweetness and the gooiest center. A drizzle of almond butter on top takes these brownies to the next level!

One of my favorite tips is to let the brownies cool completely before cutting them. While it’s tempting to dive in right away, this extra time allows them to firm up, making them much easier to slice into perfect squares. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Protein-packed thanks to cottage cheese
Decadent chocolate flavor with a nutty finish
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion

      

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Cottage Cheese Brownies plays a vital role in achieving their unique texture and flavor. The cottage cheese not only increases the protein content but also enhances moisture, ensuring that the brownies remain fudgy rather than dry. I prefer using full-fat cottage cheese for creaminess, but if you want a lighter option, low-fat can be used, just keep in mind that it may alter the final texture slightly.

Almond butter contributes to the rich, nutty flavor and helps bind the mixture together. You can swap it for peanut butter if you prefer, but ensure that the nut butter you choose is natural, as processed varieties often contain added sugars and oils that could affect the baking outcome. It's crucial to use a smooth almond butter for a seamless blend—chunky varieties can create an uneven texture.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

For best results, bake the brownies until the edges are set but the center still looks slightly underbaked; this ensures a moist, fudgy interior. Keep a close eye on them starting around the 25-minute mark, especially if this is your first time making them. If you insert a toothpick, look for a few moist crumbs clinging to it rather than it coming out completely clean.

Letting the brownies cool in the pan is crucial. If you skip this step and try to cut them while they are hot, they will fall apart. After the initial cooling period in the pan, transfer them to a wire rack to allow air circulation, which helps to maintain the right texture. Cutting them into squares once fully cooled enhances their deliciously fudgy quality.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful brownies:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Ensure everything is measured and ready before starting to mix the ingredients!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, almond butter, cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.

Pour and Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30 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 transferring to a wire rack. Once completely cool, cut into squares and enjoy!

Don’t forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh!

Pro Tips

For an extra treat, sprinkle some chopped nuts or chocolate chips on top of the brownie batter before baking!

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about three days at room temperature, and you can refrigerate them for up to a week. The cold enhances their fudginess, making them a delightful treat even after some days.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the brownies. Once cooled and cut, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a sealed freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds; they will regain their moistened texture.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to add mix-ins to elevate these brownies! Consider folding in dark chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits like cherries or cranberries for an additional flavor burst. Each offers a unique taste experience and can transform the brownies according to what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

For a sweeter version, you might increase the honey or maple syrup a bit, but remember to keep a balance with the cocoa flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cocoa powder; Dutch-processed cocoa will yield a milder, smoother flavor, while natural cocoa will provide a robust chocolate punch. Just be mindful of adjusting the acidity if you make another recipe variation that includes baking soda.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with something else?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt, but the texture might change slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can these brownies be frozen?

Yes, they can be frozen! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

→ How can I make these brownies vegan?

You can replace cottage cheese with silken tofu and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.