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: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup cocoa nibs

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa Nibs, as they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and health. The creaminess of the cottage cheese pairs beautifully with the rich cocoa, creating a deliciously moist brownie that’s hard to resist. Plus, the crunch of the cocoa nibs adds a delightful texture that elevates each bite. In just a few simple steps, you'll have a homemade treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while packing in some nutritious benefits. These brownies have become a staple in my kitchen, and I know they'll become one in yours too!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:37:10.922Z

When I first tried making brownies with cottage cheese, I was pleasantly surprised by the results. The creamy texture not only kept the brownies moist but also added a subtle tang that beautifully complemented the cocoa. I recommend using high-quality cocoa powder to really enhance the chocolate flavor, which takes these brownies to another level.

One tip I discovered during my baking journey is to fold the cocoa nibs in gently at the end. This preserves their crunchiness and ensures every bite is a delightful surprise. Trust me, these brownies will have you going back for seconds!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with the creaminess of cottage cheese
Nutty crunch from cocoa nibs for added texture
Healthier alternative to traditional brownies without sacrificing taste

      

Finding the Right Texture

The key to achieving the perfect texture in your Cottage Cheese Brownies lies in the blending of your wet ingredients. When mixing the cottage cheese with the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, you should aim for a smooth consistency without any lumps. A hand mixer or blender works well for this step, ensuring the cottage cheese fully integrates into the batter. A smooth base will result in a fudgy and rich brownie, whereas any clumps will lead to a grainy texture that detracts from the overall experience.

Another important factor is to avoid overmixing when you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Stir the mixture just until you see no dry flour or cocoa powder; this will help maintain the right amount of air in the batter, leading to a tender brownie. Remember, the gluten in the flour can become tough if handled too much, so a gentle fold is key for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Cocoa Nibs: The Secret Crunch

Cocoa nibs are a unique addition in this recipe that not only enhance the chocolate flavor but also provide a wonderful crunchy texture that contrasts against the moistness of the brownie. When folding the cocoa nibs into the batter, ensure they are evenly distributed, as this will create delightful little bursts of chocolate in every bite. If you can’t find cocoa nibs, you can substitute them with dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts, but keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile slightly.

For those who enjoy experimentation, consider toasting the cocoa nibs in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes before adding them. This step brings out their robust flavor and adds an extra layer of richness to your brownies, making them even more delectable. Just make sure to let them cool slightly before folding them into the batter.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your brownies have cooled completely, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Cut the brownies into squares, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up.

These brownies can be served plain, but if you're in the mood to elevate them further, consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. You could also drizzle a rich chocolate glaze over the top for an extra touch of decadence. Either way, these Cottage Cheese Brownies will surely impress anyone who takes a bite!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

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

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Cocoa Nibs

Fold in the cocoa nibs gently, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Brownies

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

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your brownies with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of yogurt for an extra treat!

Pro Tips

To enhance the chocolate flavor, you can add a pinch of espresso powder to the batter. It will deepen the cocoa taste without making it taste like coffee.

Key Ingredient Insights

Cottage cheese is an essential ingredient in this brownie recipe that contributes to the moistness and protein content. Unlike traditional brownie recipes that rely primarily on butter or oil, the inclusion of cottage cheese makes for a lighter treat without sacrificing flavor. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, opt for low-fat cottage cheese without losing the creamy texture.

While sugar is vital for sweetness, the amount can be adjusted based on your taste preferences. For a healthier twist, consider substituting half of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Bear in mind that this may alter the moisture content slightly, so keep an eye on the consistencies during the mixing process.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your brownies turn out too dry, it likely means that they were overbaked. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; removing them once a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs will ensure a fudgy texture. Each oven can vary, so trust your instincts and start checking a few minutes before the recommended baking time.

Should your brownies appear too gooey, it could be due to underbaking. In this case, return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, checking to see if the toothpick test yields a clean result. Always allow brownies to cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack, as this resting period helps set them up, reducing the chances of them falling apart.

Scaling and Variations

If you're looking to serve a larger crowd, this brownie recipe can easily be doubled. Simply use a 13x9-inch pan and adjust the baking time accordingly. Start with the original baking time and add more minutes if necessary, checking for doneness with the toothpick test. Ensuring an even rise while baking is crucial, so don't overload the pan too much.

For variations, consider adding mix-ins such as nut butter, shredded coconut, or even fruits like cherries or raspberries to the batter to introduce new flavors. Spices like cinnamon or a splash of espresso can amplify the chocolate flavor, adding depth to the brownies. Have fun experimenting with these additions to make the recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well too, but it may slightly affect the creaminess.

→ What can I substitute for cocoa nibs?

You can use chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter option.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.