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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa Nibs! They have become a go-to dessert in my kitchen, offering a unique twist on the traditional brownie. The combination of rich cocoa and creamy cottage cheese creates a moist and decadent treat that satisfies my sweet tooth without feeling overly indulgent. Plus, those little crunchy cocoa nibs add a delightful texture and a touch of gourmet flair. Every bite is a perfect harmony of flavors that keeps me coming back for more!

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:10:08.512Z

When I first decided to try using cottage cheese in brownies, I was a bit skeptical. However, the result was astonishing! The cottage cheese melds beautifully with the chocolate, making the brownies incredibly moist while adding a bit of protein to the mix. This lightened my guilty pleasure, and now I can indulge without feeling too remorseful afterward.

One aspect I particularly enjoyed was the addition of cocoa nibs. They not only intensify the chocolate flavor but also provide a surprising crunch that complements the texture of the brownies nicely. Trust me; it’s a game-changer!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with the creaminess of cottage cheese
Nutty crunch from cocoa nibs adds texture and flair
Healthier alternative that satisfies your chocolate cravings

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese plays a pivotal role in these brownies, introducing a creamy texture while boosting the protein content. This ingredient helps maintain moisture in the brownies, resulting in a rich, fudgy consistency that melts in your mouth. Using a well-blended cottage cheese ensures a smoother batter, so I recommend opting for a brand with a finer curd, which can help you avoid any grainy texture in the final product.

When mixed, the acidity of cottage cheese interacts beautifully with the cocoa powder, enhancing the overall chocolate flavor. This means you can enjoy that deep chocolate taste without feeling weighed down by a heavy dessert. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, silken tofu can serve as a great substitute while still delivering that desired creaminess.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking these brownies to perfection requires attention to time and temperature. After pouring the batter into the greased dish, you'll want to check them around the 25-minute mark. Look for a slight puff on top and edges pulling away from the pan. A toothpick inserted into the center should have a few moist crumbs—if it’s completely clean, you may have overbaked them, resulting in a drier texture.

For extra richness, consider adding a sprinkle of cocoa nibs on top of the batter before baking, which will toast slightly and enhance their flavor. Additionally, if you prefer a more cake-like brownie, you can increase the flour by a few tablespoons, but be careful not to add too much, as it can alter the fudgy nature of this dessert.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

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

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking dish.

Blend the ingredients

In a blender, combine cottage cheese, cocoa powder, sugar, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Mix dry ingredients

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

Combine mixtures

Pour the blended mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until no flour streaks remain. Fold in the cocoa nibs.

Bake the brownies

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

Cool and serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, allow the brownies to chill in the fridge overnight before serving. This will enhance the chocolatey taste!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, retaining their delicious texture. If you'd like to extend their shelf life, placing them in the refrigerator allows them to stay fresh for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and consistency.

For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and refrigerate it. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before pouring it into the pan and baking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together beautifully overnight!

Variations and Add-Ins

While the base recipe is divine, feel free to play around with different add-ins! For a burst of flavor, you could fold in some chopped nuts or even chocolate chips for extra indulgence. If you're a fan of espresso, a teaspoon of instant coffee in the batter enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully—it's a trick I often use to elevate my brownies.

For a seasonal twist, consider adding in some orange zest or a dash of peppermint extract to the mixture. These variations not only complement the chocolate but also give your brownies a unique signature touch that can surprise and delight your friends and family!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I make these brownies vegan?

For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based yogurt in place of cottage cheese.