Cottage Cheese Brownies with Chopped Almonds

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Chopped Almonds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped almonds

Highlighted under: Daily Collection

I absolutely love the combination of flavors in these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Chopped Almonds. The unique blend of cottage cheese adds a protein boost while keeping the brownies moist and rich. Each bite is a delightful mix of chocolate and crunch from the almonds, making it a perfect guiltless dessert option. Whether for a casual snack or a dessert to impress guests, these brownies are sure to satisfy sweet cravings. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that holds a special place in my heart!

Created by

Helena Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:49:35.265Z

When I first experimented with these Cottage Cheese Brownies, I was surprised at how the cottage cheese worked its magic. Adding it not only increases the protein content but also keeps the brownies incredibly moist without the heaviness that typically comes from oil or butter. I even added chopped almonds for a delightful crunch, which elevates the texture with each bite.

One tip I've learned along the way is to blend the cottage cheese well before incorporating it into the batter. This ensures a smooth and silky brownie texture that melts in your mouth. Trust me, this twist on a classic dessert will leave your guests wanting more!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Moist texture from cottage cheese adds unique flavor
Crunchy almond pieces enhance the overall experience
Guilt-free indulgence with a protein-packed twist

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient of these brownies, contributing to their unique texture without overpowering the flavor. The protein in cottage cheese not only helps to create a moist batter, but it also adds a subtle tang that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar and chocolate. When blended until smooth, it ensures that each brownie remains rich and tender, rather than cakey or dry. This means that you can indulge without the typical guilt associated with sugary treats.

When using cottage cheese in this brownie recipe, it's essential to pick a quality product with a smooth consistency. If you have trouble finding smooth cottage cheese, you can process it in a blender or food processor for a creamier texture. Avoid any that are overly watery, as excess moisture can lead to a gummy brownie that lacks structure. A smoother cottage cheese blends seamlessly into the batter, providing that delightful, rich mouthfeel.

Perfecting Your Brownies

Achieving the perfect brownie requires careful attention during the mixing process. When combining the ingredients, avoid overmixing after adding the flour, as this can develop gluten and create chewy brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture. Mix just until everything is blended; small lumps can be left if necessary. Additionally, letting the batter rest for about 10 minutes before pouring it into the baking pan can help enhance the flavors as they meld together.

Baking time can vary based on your oven and the baking pan’s material. A metal pan tends to yield quicker results than glass. Keep an eye on the brownies as they bake, checking for a slightly puffed top and edges that are just beginning to pull away from the sides of the pan—this indicates they are ready. Remember that they'll continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven due to residual heat, so it's best to take them out just as they begin to look set.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need for making these delicious brownies!

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped almonds

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's get started on these brownies!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your brownies.

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend Cottage Cheese

In a mixing bowl, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Add sugar, cocoa powder, flour, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt to the blended cottage cheese. Stir until just combined.

Fold in Almonds

Gently fold in the chopped almonds into the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes. A toothpick should come out slightly moist.

Cool and Cut

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Your brownies are now ready to be devoured!

Pro Tips

For extra decadence, consider adding chocolate chips or melting chocolate on top before serving.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for a week. To maintain their moist texture, be sure to let them cool completely before sealing them in. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or heat briefly in the microwave before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

Serving ideas for these brownies are as varied as your imagination! They pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a fun twist, consider topping them with additional chopped almonds or a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving. Serving them at room temperature with a warm beverage can elevate the chocolate flavors even more, making for a satisfying dessert experience.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to customize these brownies to your liking. You can swap out the chopped almonds for other nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even add in chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey boost. For a hint of spice, adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of espresso powder can amplify the chocolate flavor without being overpowering.

For a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Just remember that using liquid sweeteners may affect the overall moisture, so you might want to reduce other liquid ingredients slightly. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, silken tofu blended until smooth can be a great substitute for cottage cheese, maintaining that fudgy texture while allowing you to enjoy a plant-based treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with another ingredient?

Yes, you could try using Greek yogurt for a similar texture but keep in mind it may alter the taste slightly.

→ How long can I store these brownies?

The brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Is it necessary to use chopped almonds?

No, you can omit the almonds or replace them with any nuts of your choice, like walnuts or pecans.