These Cottage Cheese Brownies are a fun twist on classic treats! They have a rich chocolate flavor while hiding some healthy cottage cheese inside for extra protein.
Who knew you could sneak in something nutritious while enjoying brownies? I love serving these at parties – everyone always asks for the recipe, not knowing about the cottage cheese surprise! 😂
I really enjoy how simple they are to make. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for when you crave something sweet but still want to keep it a bit healthier!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: I use unsalted butter for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, feel free to substitute with coconut oil or even applesauce for a lower-fat option.
Granulated Sugar: White sugar gives these brownies their sweetness. For a less sugary option, try using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia, just remember to check the conversion ratios.
Cottage Cheese: The key ingredient here! Make sure to use well-drained cottage cheese. If you’re dairy-free, a thick dairy-free yogurt could work in a pinch, but the texture will be different.
Cocoa Powder: I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor. If you want a lighter option, you could use carob powder, which also gives a chocolate-like taste.
How Do I Ensure My Brownies Are Fudgy and Not Dry?
To achieve that perfect fudgy texture, the mixing and baking times are crucial. Here are my tips:
- Be careful not to overmix the batter. Stir just until everything is combined to keep them moist.
- Watch baking closely. Start checking around 35 minutes. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean.
- Let them cool completely. This helps the brownies set and makes them easier to cut.
These tips will help you bake the fudgiest brownies, so you can enjoy every bite of the creamy, chocolatey goodness!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (225g) butter, melted
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (225g) cottage cheese, well drained
- 1/2 cup (90g) white chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 35-40 minutes to bake. After baking, let the brownies cool for a bit before slicing. So, in total, you’ll spend around 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes getting these tasty treats ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking pan and grease it up or line it with parchment paper to make sure the brownies come out easily later.
2. Mixing the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the melted butter and sugar. Use a whisk or spatula to combine them until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Next, add the vanilla extract and one egg at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to keep the batter light and fluffy!
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This step is important as it prevents lumps and ensures that the brownies bake evenly.
4. Mixing It All Together:
Now it’s time to combine! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently just until combined—be careful not to overmix; we want to keep it tender.
5. Adding Cottage Cheese and Extra Goodies:
Next, you’ll fold in the well-drained cottage cheese. This will make those delightful creamy pockets in your brownies! If you’re using white chocolate chips, toss them in as well and give it a gentle mix.
6. Baking the Brownies:
Pour your brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, and check with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
7. Cooling and Serving:
Once they are baked to perfection, let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step helps them set and makes them easier to slice. Once cool, cut them into squares and serve. Enjoy the rich, fudgy treats packed with creamy cottage cheese!
These Cottage Cheese Brownies are a fun and nutritious twist on a classic dessert – they’ll surely become a favorite for chocolate lovers!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use low-fat cottage cheese! It will still provide the creaminess and protein without significantly impacting the flavor. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of These Brownies?
If you prefer a less sweet brownie, you can reduce the sugar by about 1/2 cup. Alternatively, you can use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit, following the conversion guidelines on the packaging for best results.
Can I Freeze the Brownies for Later?
Absolutely! Once the brownies are completely cool, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Are There Any Good Add-Ins I Can Use?
Definitely! Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or throw in some chocolate chips for extra richness. You can also try adding a swirl of peanut butter or caramel for a delicious flavor twist.
