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: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Ideas

I love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Almond Butter because they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. The inclusion of cottage cheese gives them a unique moistness and a protein punch that makes them a healthier treat. I often serve these to friends who are surprised by how delicious they are, especially because they are rich in flavor yet lower in calories than traditional brownies. Plus, whipping up this recipe takes less than an hour, making it perfect for spontaneous dessert cravings!

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:29:34.608Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of using cottage cheese in brownies, I was skeptical but intrigued. After testing a few versions, I found that blending cottage cheese with almond butter not only boosts the nutritional profile but also gives the brownies a unique creamy texture. I love how this twist on a classic dessert allows me to indulge without the guilt!

One of my favorite parts about these brownies is how versatile they are. You can easily adjust the sweetness or even add in some nuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor. They satisfy that chocolate craving while providing a great source of protein, making them an ideal snack any time of day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with almond undertones
Moist and fudgy texture with a hidden protein boost
Perfect for guilt-free snacking or dessert

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredient in these brownies is cottage cheese, which not only adds moisture but also elevates the protein content significantly compared to traditional brownie recipes. It's essential to use well-blended cottage cheese—aim for a smooth consistency before mixing with the other ingredients. This will ensure your brownies have a fudgy texture instead of a grainy one.

Almond butter contributes to the rich flavor profile of these brownies while providing healthy fats. If you're looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter can be a great substitute. Just know that the flavor will shift slightly, so be prepared for a different but still delicious outcome.

Using cocoa powder is crucial for achieving that deep chocolate flavor. Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to control the sweetness level in your brownies. If you're feeling adventurous, you can substitute half of the cocoa powder with dark chocolate melted for an even richer taste.

Baking Technique Tips

When blending the ingredients, it’s important to do so until completely smooth, which usually takes about 30 seconds in a high-speed blender. This step is vital for avoiding lumps in your batter, ensuring every bite is creamy and rich. Don't forget to scrape down the sides of your blender halfway through for an even consistency.

As your brownies bake, keep an eye on them towards the 20-minute mark. Ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking. The edges should appear set and slightly puffed, while the center may look a bit undercooked—this is okay as they will continue to firm up as they cool. Use the toothpick test to check if they’re done: it should come out clean but with a few moist crumbs attached.

Cooling is another key step that shouldn’t be rushed. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This time helps them set, reducing the chances of them falling apart when cut. If you're short on time, you can transfer the brownies to the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your brownies truly memorable:

Brownie Ingredients

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

Mixing these ingredients will lead to a decadent treat!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bake your fabulous brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend Ingredients

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

Pour and Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious creation!

These brownies are best served warm, but they store well in the fridge too!

Pro Tips

For a more indulgent version, try folding in some dark chocolate chips before baking. You can also substitute the almond butter with peanut butter if you'd like a different flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further with a variety of toppings. Sprinkle a handful of chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top for added texture and flavor. For an extra indulgent touch, a scoop of vanilla Greek yogurt on the side pairs beautifully with the chocolate richness.

Consider turning these brownies into a sundae treat by adding a scoop of your favorite ice cream and some fresh berries. The creaminess of the ice cream complements the fudgy brownies wonderfully, enhancing the overall dessert experience. This is a perfect way to impress guests at gatherings or simply treat yourself.

Storage and Freezing

If you have leftovers, these brownies store well. Simply keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain their softness, place a slice of bread in the container; it helps keep the brownies moist.

For longer storage, you can freeze these brownies for up to 3 months. Before freezing, slice them into portions and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or bring to room temperature on the counter for a couple of hours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well, but it may result in slightly different texture.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I substitute for almond butter?

You can substitute with any nut or seed butter, like peanut butter or sunflower seed butter.