Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup cashew butter; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter are a delightful twist on traditional brownies. With a rich, fudgy texture, they balance out the protein-packed cottage cheese with the creamy essence of cashew butter. This recipe not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also offers a healthier alternative to typical brownies. Throw in a handful of chocolate chips, and you’ve got a treat that’s both indulgent and nutritious. I've made these for friends and family, and they always ask for seconds!

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:01:11.024Z

When I first tried making brownies with cottage cheese, I was skeptical about how the texture would turn out. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how moist and rich these brownies were. The cashew butter adds a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate. I learned that using cottage cheese not only adds protein but also helps keep the brownies tender, which is a game-changer for my baking!

After perfecting the recipe, I decided to experiment with different mix-ins. I found that adding walnuts or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top elevates the flavor profile even more. If you want to indulge without the guilt, these brownies are it. Trust me, your friends and family won’t believe they’re made with cottage cheese!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy cashew butter
Healthy twist on classic brownies with added protein
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The importance of cottage cheese in these brownies cannot be understated. It offers a creamy texture while significantly boosting the protein content, making these brownies a much healthier option than traditional ones. When blended smoothly, it contributes to a fudgy consistency rather than a dry crumb, which is crucial for achieving that perfect brownie mouthfeel.

Cashew butter also plays a pivotal role in this recipe. Its natural creaminess not only enhances the rich chocolate flavor but also adds healthy fats. If you're out of cashew butter, almond or peanut butter can serve as a substitute, but be mindful that the flavor profile will shift slightly—almond butter offers a nuttier taste, while peanut butter introduces its own unique essence.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your brownies rise beautifully, be careful not to overmix the batter once you’ve added the dry ingredients. Overmixing can result in tough brownies; you want just enough mixing to combine everything. The batter should be thick yet pourable, and if it’s too dry, consider adding a splash of milk to achieve the right consistency.

When baking at 350°F (175°C), keep an eye on time. Every oven varies, so a good test is to check for doneness around the 25-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should emerge with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. If your brownies slightly underbake, you can always microwave individual pieces for a few seconds to warm them up.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup cashew butter
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and cashew butter. Mix until smooth, then add the eggs and vanilla extract.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

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

Mix It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined. Fold in chocolate chips.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your homemade cottage cheese brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter. This enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully!

Storing and Freezing

These Cottage Cheese Brownies store remarkably well. To keep them fresh, allow the brownies to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can last up to five days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. To retain their fudginess, consider layering parchment paper between the brownies to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, you can freeze these brownies. Cut them into squares, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy a piece, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or microwave it for about 15-20 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further! A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a wonderful contrast of temperature and creaminess. Drizzle with a warm chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch. You can also add fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, to brighten up the plate.

For a fun twist, consider incorporating nuts or dried fruits into the batter. Adding a half cup of chopped walnuts or a handful of dried cranberries will enhance the texture and provide delightful flavor bursts. Feel free to get creative—mixing in some mint extract can also give a refreshing twist to the chocolate-rich brownies!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works perfectly in this recipe!

→ What can I substitute for cashew butter?

You can use almond butter or peanut butter if you prefer.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and they will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.