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

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Collection

I love these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa Nibs because they offer a delightful twist on traditional brownies. With the addition of cottage cheese, they not only pack a protein punch but also create a moist and fudgy texture that’s simply irresistible. Cocoa nibs sprinkle a rich chocolate flavor and a satisfying crunch, making every bite a treat. These brownies are perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth without the guilt. I can enjoy them as a snack or dessert, and they’re always a hit with friends and family!

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-13T07:25:37.056Z

Every time I make these Cottage Cheese Brownies, I’m reminded of how simple ingredients can transform into something spectacular. The cottage cheese acts as a secret weapon, keeping the brownies moist while adding a subtle tang that compliments the chocolate beautifully. I remember the first time I experimented with cocoa nibs; the crunchy texture took these brownies to the next level, making them even more irresistible.

I also learned that using dark cocoa powder can enhance the chocolate depth, so I always opt for it now. Baking them for the right amount of time is key, as they continue to firm up after cooling. This simple technique ensures I end up with fudgy brownies that are the perfect treat for any occasion!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Deliciously fudgy texture thanks to cottage cheese
Rich chocolate flavor combined with crispy cocoa nibs
A healthier dessert option packed with protein
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any gathering

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a star ingredient in these brownies, contributing to their unique moisture and fudginess. Unlike typical brownie recipes that rely solely on butter, the addition of cottage cheese enhances the protein content while also lending a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the sugar. It's important to use well-blended cottage cheese to avoid lumps in your batter, ensuring a smooth final texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can opt for low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese without sacrificing too much flavor.

When mixing the wet ingredients, be sure to blend the cottage cheese thoroughly with the oil and eggs until the mixture is completely smooth. This emulsification process is crucial for achieving that desired fudgy mouthfeel. If you’re short on time, using cottage cheese from a blender or food processor can result in an even creamier batter quickly.

Cocoa Nibs: A Crunchy Chocolate Hit

Cocoa nibs are not just a delightful finish; they play a crucial role in delivering texture and rich chocolate flavor. Their slight bitterness contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the brownies and adds a satisfying crunch that elevates each bite. If you find cocoa nibs too intense, consider substituting half of them with semi-sweet chocolate chips, which will melt and create gooey pockets throughout the brownies while still retaining some of that crunch.

When incorporating cocoa nibs into the batter, I recommend folding them in gently. This preserves their integrity and prevents them from clumping together. A good rule of thumb is to sprinkle a few more on top of the batter right before baking; this encourages a more pronounced texture and appearance. You’ll appreciate that extra crunch when you take that first bite out of the oven.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up your delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start mixing the ingredients.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine and Add Cocoa Nibs

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the cocoa nibs.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 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 slicing into squares and serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked brownies with a cup of coffee or share them with friends!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor even further, try adding some chopped nuts or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies store wonderfully, making them an ideal make-ahead treat for gatherings or meal prep. Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a healthy treat anytime!

To thaw frozen brownies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up, which will bring back their original fudginess. Just be careful not to overheat them, as that can dry them out.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with brownies is overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense and tough final product. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir until just mixed. Some small floury streaks are perfectly fine; they will disappear during baking. Additionally, overbaking can lead to dry brownies, so keep an eye on them after 20 minutes and start testing with a toothpick around that time. You’re aiming for a toothpick that comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.

If you find that your brownies aren’t rising properly, ensure that your baking powder is fresh. Old baking powder can lose its potency, impacting your brownies’ rise. For a quick test, mix a teaspoon of baking powder with a tablespoon of vinegar; if it bubbles vigorously, it’s still good to use!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese for another ingredient?

You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for 1 week.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Yes, they freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal or unsweetened applesauce as an egg replacement.