Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa Nibs

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa Nibs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup honey; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/3 cup cocoa nibs

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love indulging in these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa Nibs. They combine the creaminess of cottage cheese with rich chocolate, creating an irresistible dessert that's both satisfying and unique. Not only are they a delightful treat, but they also provide a guilt-free pleasure since they contain a good amount of protein. Plus, the addition of cocoa nibs gives a satisfying crunch that offsets the moist texture of the brownies. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—it’s become a staple in my baking repertoire!

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-11T23:52:13.765Z

When I first decided to make brownies with cottage cheese, I wasn’t sure how they would turn out. To my surprise, they emerged from the oven rich and fudgy, with just the right texture. I found that using cottage cheese not only adds protein but also keeps the brownies moist and prevents them from drying out. This balance elevates a classic treat into something surprisingly wholesome.

Moreover, I discovered that incorporating cocoa nibs not only intensifies the chocolate flavor but also introduces a delightful crunch. It’s a simple twist that transformed my ordinary brownie recipe into something extraordinary. Giving these a try will certainly redefine how you think about brownies!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor enhanced with a hint of creaminess from cottage cheese
Nutty crunch from cocoa nibs that adds texture
Lower in fat than traditional brownies, making them a healthier indulgence

      

Understanding Ingredients

The key to making these Cottage Cheese Brownies is the cottage cheese itself. It provides moisture and richness without the extra fat found in butter or oil. When blended thoroughly, the cottage cheese will ensure that the brownies are creamy and impart a subtle tang that perfectly balances the sweetness. Be sure to use well-drained cottage cheese to prevent excess moisture, which can alter the texture and cooking time.

Cocoa nibs are another star ingredient in this recipe, contributing a robust chocolate flavor without added sugar. Their intense crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft, moist texture of the brownies. If you want to experiment, try using dark chocolate chips or finely chopped nuts as a substitution for the cocoa nibs while maintaining their earthy flavor.

Baking Techniques

When mixing your wet ingredients, aim for a smooth texture. If your cottage cheese remains chunky, it can create a grainy brownie. Using a high-speed blender can help achieve the desired consistency quickly. After combining the wet ingredients, be careful not to overmix when introducing the dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to dense brownies. Instead, gently fold them until just combined for light and airy results.

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Keep an eye on the baking time; if your oven runs hot, you might find that 23 minutes is sufficient. The edges should look set and possibly a bit puffy, indicating they are ready to be taken out of the oven.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your brownies.

Brownies Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup honey
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup cocoa nibs

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your brownies.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, blend together the cottage cheese, cocoa powder, sugar, honey, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, then fold in the cocoa nibs.

Bake the Brownies

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for a while before slicing into squares and serving.

Enjoy your homemade cottage cheese brownies!

Pro Tips

Make sure to use smooth cottage cheese for the best texture. You can also substitute chocolate chips for cocoa nibs if desired.

Storage Tips

Once cooled, these brownies should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration may alter their texture slightly, making them a bit firmer. For the best flavor and softness, let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.

You can also freeze these brownies for up to three months. To freeze, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further with some toppings. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for a delightful treat. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle melted dark chocolate or caramel sauce over the top just before serving.

If you want to enhance the flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter. It intensifies the chocolate flavor without being noticeable. You could also sprinkle some sea salt on top of the brownies just after removing them from the oven for a sophisticated, gourmet touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I replace cottage cheese with another ingredient?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute, but it will change the flavor and texture slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! These brownies freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I add to customize the brownies?

You can mix in nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture.