These Cottage Cheese Brownies are super fudgy and delicious, they’re easy to make and they’re healthy! They’re made with nourishing ingredients like cottage cheese and oat flour, making them a perfect sweet treat if you’re looking for something healthy but still delicious!
I’ve made a lot of brownie recipes lately, they’re one of my favorite treats! I’ve made Strawberry Brownies, Cherry Brownies, Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting and I’ve even made No-Bake Ferrero Rocher Brownies. But these cottage cheese brownies may just be my favorite brownie recipe to date!
They’re perfectly fudgy, not too sweet and they’re just genuinely delicious! What make them even better is that they’re incredibly quick and easy to make and they’re good for you! Who doesn’t love a delicious treat that packs a punch of protein and health benefits?
These cottage cheese brownies are refined sugar-free and gluten-free, and they can easily be made nut-free by omitting the walnuts.
These brownies are perfect for meal-prep, so that when you’re in need of a sweet treat you have something healthy to grab that’s not only good for your soul, but also good for your body!
Why you’ll love these cottage cheese brownies:
- They’re quick and easy to make.
- They’re gluten-free and refined sugar-free, and can be made nut-free.
- They’re high in protein and healthy fats.
- They’re made with nourishing ingredients like cottage cheese and oat flour.
- They’re super fudgy and delicious!
- They’re great for meal-prep for the week.
- They’re good for your soul and your body.
What Makes This Recipe Good for You?
These Cottage Cheese Brownies are not only a delicious treat but also a healthier alternative to traditional brownies. Here’s why they’re good for you:
- High in Protein: The inclusion of cottage cheese and eggs provides a significant boost of protein. Protein supports muscle repair, keeps you feeling fuller for longer, and contributes to overall wellness.
- Healthy Fats: Optional mix-ins like walnuts or dark chocolate contribute heart-healthy fats, which are essential for brain function and satiety.
- Gluten-Free and Refined Sugar-Free: Using oat flour instead of white flour ensures this recipe is gluten-free, and coconut sugar adds sweetness without refined sugars, which can cause blood sugar spikes.
- Rich in Nutrients: Cottage cheese offers calcium and B vitamins, oat flour provides fiber for digestive health, and cocoa powder contains antioxidants that promote heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Balanced Energy: These brownies are a great source of slow-releasing carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making them a balanced option for a snack or dessert that fuels your body.
- Meal Prep Friendly: By making a batch, you have a wholesome, portion-controlled treat ready for the week—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while staying on track with your health goals.
Ingredients Needed
These are the ingredients you’ll need to make these Cottage Cheese Brownies. You can find the exact measurements in the recipe card at the bottom of this page. See ingredient substitutions below.
Cottage Cheese: The star of this recipe, adding moisture and nutrition. You can use chunky or smooth cottage cheese and choose the fat content that fits your macros—from fat-free to full-fat, it’s up to you!
Coconut Sugar: To add the perfect amount of sweetness to the brownie with strawberries, whilst keeping them refined sugar-free.
Eggs: You will need one whole egg and one egg yolk. This is what holds the brownies together.
Milk: Brings the brownie batter to the correct consistency.
Oat Flour: Instead of using white flour, this recipe calls for oat flour or blended oats. You can buy oat flour from most health food stores, or you can make your own by blending and sifting whole oats.
Cocoa Powder: I recommend using Dutch-processed cocoa powder as it provides a smoother and richer chocolate taste.
Salt: If your cottage cheese does not contain salt, you may want to add 1/4 teaspoon to enhance the sweetness.
Optional Mix-ins: I like to add some instant coffee powder to my brownie batter mix, it adds such a delicious flavor. You can also add in some vanilla extract. Further, you can add in some dark chocolate and nuts for a delicious crunch, extra nutrients, and healthy fats.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Oat Flour: All-purpose or Plain Wholemeal Flour works perfectly. For gluten-free strawberry brownies, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend, but be aware this might slightly alter the texture.
- Cocoa Powder: You can use cacao powder.
- Coconut Sugar: If you don’t have coconut sugar, you can substitute it with brown sugar, but this will make the brownies refined sugar and less healthy.
- Milk: Any type of milk can be used, including almond, soy, or oat milk. For a richer texture, you can use full-fat milk, but adjust the batter consistency as needed.
- Eggs: I’ve not tested any egg replacements like a flax or chia egg, but you could give it a go and let me know how they turn out!
Equipment needed
- Digital Food Scale: For accurate measurements and perfect results.
- Blender or Food Processor: To blend the wet ingredients.
- 8-inch Square Baking Tin
- Parchment Paper
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk and Spatula
How to make Cottage Cheese Brownies
Here is a detailed summary of how to make this recipe. I’ve also included some photos, and you can find the recipe video in the recipe card. At the bottom of this page is a summarized version that can be printed.
Step One:
Preheat the oven and line your baking tin with parchment paper, leaving some paper overhanging the pan for easy removal.
Step Two:
Add your cottage cheese, sugar, eggs, milk, and coffee to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
Step Three:
Add your oat flour and cocoa powder to a mixing bowl and whisk to combine.
Step Four:
Pour your smooth wet ingredients into your dry ingredients and fold with a spatula until combined.
Step Five:
Add your dark chocolate and walnuts or any other mix-ins that you’re using and fold them into the brownie batter.
Step Six:
Transfer the brownie batter to your baking tin and spread evenly to the edges. Top with some dark chocolate chips.
Step Seven:
Bake your brownies for 25-30 minutes. 25 minutes for gooey brownies and 30 for fudgy brownies.
Step Eight:
Leave to cool completely before slicing with a sharp, clean knife.
Tips and Notes
- Choose Your Cottage Cheese Wisely: For a smoother texture, opt for blended cottage cheese or blend it yourself if chunky. The fat content is up to you—fat-free for a lighter option or full-fat for a richer flavor.
- Homemade Oat Flour: If you don’t have oat flour on hand, make your own by blending rolled oats into a fine powder and sifting out larger pieces.
- Check for Doneness: For gooey brownies, bake for 25 minutes; for fudgier ones, go for 30 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly soft.
- Customize Mix-ins: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee for a deeper chocolate flavor, or sprinkle in vanilla extract for a sweet aroma. For extra texture, try chopped nuts, seeds, or dark chocolate chips.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set and prevents them from falling apart.
- Experiment with Toppings: Sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top after baking for a gourmet touch or drizzle melted dark chocolate after they’ve cooled for added decadence.
How to store cottage cheese brownies
Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy the brownies within 1–2 days, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the brownies in the fridge in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Refrigeration helps maintain their fudgy texture and prevents spoilage.
Freezing: To store brownies for a longer period, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. You can separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To Defrost: Thaw the brownies in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. You can also microwave them for 15–20 seconds for a warm, gooey treat.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use a substitute for cottage cheese?
Yes! If you need a dairy-free option, you can replace cottage cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese or blended silken tofu. Both will provide a creamy texture and similar moisture content.
How do I make these brownies nut-free?
Simply skip the optional walnuts in the recipe. You can still add other nut-free mix-ins like seeds or extra dark chocolate chips for texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
While the recipe contains eggs, you can experiment with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) as a substitute. Ensure your cottage cheese substitute is vegan as well.
How do I ensure the brownies are fudgy and not cakey?
The key is to avoid overbaking. Stick to the recommended baking time of 25–30 minutes and let the brownies cool completely before slicing. Also, ensure you’re using enough cocoa powder for a rich, fudgy texture.
What can I use instead of oat flour?
You can substitute oat flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour, but this may slightly change the texture and nutritional profile. If you’re using almond flour, reduce the quantity slightly as it’s more dense.
Can I make this recipe sweeter?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter brownie, add a bit more coconut sugar or mix in chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time; it may need a few extra minutes.
Are these brownies good for meal prep?
Definitely! These brownies store well and are perfect for meal prep. Keep them in the fridge or freezer for a quick, healthy treat throughout the week.
more cottage cheese recipes to try next:
- The BEST Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough (only 5 ingredients)
- 4-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Fudge (easy & healthy)
- Easy and Healthy Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse (High Protein Mousse)
- Healthy Chocolate Truffles (made with just 4 ingredients)
Hey! If you make this recipe, I would love it if you could leave me some feedback and a rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ in the comment section at the bottom of the page! Also let me know on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and see your photos!
Cottage Cheese Brownies
Equipment
Ingredients
- 250 g Cottage Cheese – 1 cup
- 170 g Coconut Sugar – ¾ cup
- 1 Egg + 1 Egg Yolk
- 80 g Milk – ⅓ cup
- 1 tbsp Instant Coffee
- 90 g Oat Flour (or blended oats) – 1 cup
- 60 g Cocoa Powder – ½ cup
- 50 g Walnuts (optional) – ⅓ cup
- 50 g Dark Chocolate Chips (plus more for topping – optional) – ¼ cup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180℃ / 350℉ and line an 8-inch square baking tin with parchment paper.
- Blend cottage cheese, coconut sugar, eggs, milk, and coffee until smooth.
- Whisk oat flour and cocoa powder in a mixing bowl.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold with a spatula until combined.
- Fold in your walnuts and chocolate chips in using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin, spread evenly, and top with dark chocolate chips.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, depending on your preferred texture.
- Cool completely before slicing into squares.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Let me know in the comments if you make these Cottage Cheese Brownies!
Is the coffee necessary?