Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cherry Pieces

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cherry Pieces
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve always loved the idea of incorporating cottage cheese into desserts, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cherry Pieces are my favorite experiment yet. The rich chocolate flavor combined with the occasional burst of sweet cherries elevates these brownies to a whole new level. Not only do they satisfy my sweet tooth, but they also offer a unique texture that’s surprisingly fluffy yet fudgy. I can’t wait for you to try this deliciously different treat that's perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:13:19.138Z

When I first tried making brownies with cottage cheese, I was skeptical about how they would turn out. However, the results were astounding—the cottage cheese gives the brownies a moistness and protein kick that I never expected. The addition of cherry pieces not only adds a pop of color but also a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness of the chocolate. I found that using fresh or frozen cherries both work beautifully!

While baking these brownies, I learned that letting them cool completely before slicing is key. This ensures they hold their shape and have the perfect texture, so resist the urge to dive in too soon! Now, whenever I have guests, these brownies always surprise and delight them with their unique twist on a classic dessert.

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor complemented by juicy cherries
Surprisingly light texture thanks to cottage cheese
A healthier brownie option with added protein

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a surprising yet crucial ingredient in these brownies. Unlike traditional brownie recipes that use butter or oil to create a dense texture, cottage cheese introduces moisture and protein, creating a delightful lightness. It also helps to bind the ingredients together while contributing to the overall fudginess of the brownies. This unique combination ensures that each bite is both rich and fluffy—something that sets this recipe apart from conventional brownies.

One of my favorite things about using cottage cheese is its ability to absorb flavors. This means that the chocolate and cherry flavors will really shine through in every bite. Plus, since cottage cheese is lower in fat compared to butter, it allows you to indulge without the guilt, making it a great option for those looking for a healthier treat.

Choosing the Right Cherries

Using fresh or frozen cherries can make a big difference in your brownies. Fresh cherries impart a bright, juicy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate. If you opt for frozen, just make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the batter. You want the cherries to add bursts of juiciness without making the brownies too soggy.

Chopping the cherries helps to distribute their sweetness evenly throughout the batter. For a different twist, consider using dark or sour cherries, which will add a delicious tang and enhance the complexity of flavors. No matter which variety you choose, make sure to pit them well, as biting into a cherry pit is no fun and can impact the enjoyment of your dessert.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start baking!

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped

Make sure to mix everything well for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your brownies!

Preheat and Prepare

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Mix until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir until just combined.

Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in the chopped cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!

Once cooled, these brownies are perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter!

Storage Tips

Once your brownies have cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their freshness, consider refrigerating them; they can last up to a week in the fridge. To keep them from drying out, place a piece of parchment paper between layers if you stack them.

For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Slice them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours or enjoy them straight from the freezer.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them even further by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess pairs perfectly with the warmth of the brownies, creating a wonderful contrast in texture and temperature. You might even drizzle some chocolate sauce on top for an extra indulgent treat.

For a more sophisticated dessert experience, consider pairing the brownies with a cherry compote. Just simmer some additional pitted cherries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice until it thickens slightly. This tangy sauce will complement the brownies beautifully and add a lovely presentation when served.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta as a substitute, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

No, the recipe includes all-purpose flour, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.