Cottage Cheese Brownies with Almond Butter

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Almond Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 eggs; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’m always on the lookout for healthier dessert options, and why not turn something as classic as brownies into a protein-packed treat? These Cottage Cheese Brownies with Almond Butter have completely transformed my snack game. With rich chocolate flavors and a creamy texture, they are incredibly satisfying without the guilt. Every bite feels indulgent, yet they provide a good source of protein thanks to the cottage cheese. Trust me, once you try them, you won't want to go back to regular brownies!

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:52:10.304Z

When I first decided to use cottage cheese in my brownies, I was skeptical. Could it really add to the taste or texture? After a bit of experimentation, I found that it not only kept the brownies moist but also gave them a delightful creaminess that is hard to resist. The secret was to blend the cottage cheese until it was smooth, ensuring no lumps remained. This small step made a big difference!

Another tip I discovered was using almond butter instead of traditional butter or oil. The nutty flavor not only complements the chocolate perfectly but also adds healthy fats, making these brownies a nourishing treat. The combination has become a favorite in our household, and I can’t wait for you to try them!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Delicious chocolate flavor with a hint of nuttiness from almond butter
High in protein and lower in sugar than traditional brownies
Rich and fudgy texture that satisfies chocolate cravings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key ingredient in these Cottage Cheese Brownies is, unsurprisingly, cottage cheese. Not only does it add creaminess and moisture, but it also elevates the protein content, making these brownies a more satisfying option than traditional recipes. When selecting cottage cheese, go for full-fat or low-fat varieties, as they provide the best texture. Avoid watery options, as they can lead to a dry brownie batter.

Almond butter plays a vital role in both flavor and texture enhancement. It brings a subtle nuttiness that complements the rich cocoa flavor while also ensuring a fudgy consistency. If you don’t have almond butter on hand, feel free to substitute it with other nut butters like peanut or cashew, but keep in mind that these will slightly alter the flavor profile of your brownies.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

When pouring the brownie batter into the baking dish, use a spatula to spread it evenly—aim for a smooth, flat surface to ensure even baking. If you notice some lumps before you pour, don't worry; a few bumps won't hurt the texture. However, blending until smooth is important to integrate the ingredients fully, ensuring no large curds of cottage cheese disrupt your fudgy brownie experience.

To achieve that perfect bake, begin checking for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off. The brownies should pull away slightly from the edges and a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. Allowing them to cool in the pan is crucial—this helps them firm up for cleaner cuts, enhancing your serving experience.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 eggs
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Make sure everything is fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Blend Ingredients

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

Mix in Chocolate Chips

If using dark chocolate chips, fold them into the brownie batter using a spatula.

Pour and Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your healthy treat!

Cut into squares and serve with a glass of milk or your favorite non-dairy alternative!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or dried fruits into the batter before baking.

Storing and Freezing

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerating them extends their life to about a week without sacrificing taste or texture. Just allow them to reach room temperature before enjoying, as this will bring out their best chocolate flavors.

For longer storage, consider freezing the brownies. Cut them into squares and place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer; when you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delightful as-is, but you can elevate them further by serving with fresh fruit, such as berries or banana slices, adding a textural contrast and freshness. For an extra touch, drizzle some nut butter on top or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. This not only enhances the aesthetic but also packs in more nutrition.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt right before serving for a sweet-salty contrast that beautifully enhances the chocolate flavor. Crushed nuts or coconut flakes can also be sprinkled on top for added crunch, taking your brownies from simple to gourmet with minimal effort!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Yes! You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or any other nut or seed butter you prefer.

→ Do these brownies need to be refrigerated?

They can be stored at room temperature for a few days, but refrigeration can help keep them fresh longer.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Ensure that the cocoa powder and any added mix-ins are labeled gluten-free.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup is a great alternative if you are looking for a vegan option or want to avoid honey.