Cottage cheese brownies are the rich, chocolatey treat you didn’t know you needed. Packed with protein and naturally gluten-free, these fudgy bars deliver all the flavor of classic brownies — with a healthy twist. Made with creamy blended cottage cheese, cocoa, and almond flour, they’re perfect for anyone craving a high-protein dessert that doesn’t taste “healthy.” In this post, we’ll share the simple recipe, tips for getting them just right, and why these easy protein brownies are one of the smartest ways to satisfy your chocolate cravings. With only one bowl and a few ingredients, in just 35 min these cottage cheese brownies are ready to slice and enjoy.
Table of content
Table of Contents
Cottage Cheese Brownies
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 9 brownies
Description
These cottage cheese brownies are a fudgy, high-protein dessert made with simple ingredients like almond flour, cocoa powder, and blended cottage cheese. A gluten-free, healthy chocolate treat that’s easy to bake and even easier to love.
Ingredients
2/3 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional)
1/2 cup almond flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/3 cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth. This ensures the final brownies are silky and free of curds.
3. In a bowl, whisk in each egg one at a time with the vanilla extract, maple syrup, and blended cottage cheese for a smooth and creamy base.
4. Add almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and sugar (if using), then combine everything until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
8. Bake for 22–25 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool completely before slicing into squares.
10. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Notes
For extra chocolate depth, add 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder.
These brownies are naturally gluten-free and protein-rich without using protein powder.
They freeze well. Wrap individual slices in parchment and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
These cottage cheese brownies are perfect with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of nut butter on top.
For the best results, always blend the cottage cheese smooth before adding it to your brownie batter — it’s the key to silky cottage cheese brownies.
If you don’t have a 1/4 cup measure, use 4 tablespoons of cocoa powder instead it’s the same amount and just as easy.
You can also swap almond flour for finely ground coconut flour, but reduce the amount slightly as coconut flour is more absorbent.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why Cottage Cheese Brownies Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Box
From College Cravings to Creative Solutions
Cottage cheese in brownies? Years ago, I would’ve raised an eyebrow, too. Back when I was experimenting in my cramped college kitchen, trying to make treats that wouldn’t wreck my budget (or blood sugar), I stumbled upon cottage cheese as a protein-packed secret weapon. It was affordable, versatile, and added moisture without butter or oil. That tiny discovery became one of my favorite swaps for baking.
Fast forward to today, and I’ve refined that experiment into something I’m proud to share on Try It Tasty — these cottage cheese brownies are smooth, chocolatey, and packed with 6 grams of protein per square. Whether you’re looking for a healthy chocolate treat, fudgy brownies, or just a smarter way to satisfy dessert cravings, this recipe fits right in.
You’d be surprised how well the cottage cheese blends into the mix. It gives these brownies a silky texture, making them feel far more decadent than you’d expect from a high protein brownie. The added bonus? They’re naturally gluten-free thanks to almond flour — and no, they don’t taste like “diet” food.
A Brownie That’s Big on Flavor, Light on Regret
This isn’t just another Pinterest hack — these brownies were tested until perfect. I wanted them to check all the boxes: quick to make, minimal cleanup, and actually satisfying. That’s how this 9-ingredient, one-bowl wonder was born. The maple syrup and chocolate chips give just the right amount of sweetness, while the cottage cheese keeps everything soft and moist — no dry bites here.
If you’re into easy protein brownies, this one’s for you. No protein powder needed, no artificial aftertaste, just real food doing delicious things. And if you love recipes like my Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse or Cottage Cheese Chocolate Pudding, this one’s about to become a favorite too.
Up next, we’ll break down the ingredients and walk you through the steps to make these 4-ingredient brownies (okay, it’s nine… but still ridiculously simple).
How to Make Cottage Cheese Brownies recipe the Easy Way
Gather Your Power-Packed Ingredients
These cottage cheese brownies are not only delicious they’re surprisingly simple to make. The beauty lies in the balance of ingredients that deliver protein, flavor, and that signature fudgy texture. With no fancy flours or powders required, this is truly an easy protein brownie recipe anyone can whip up.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cottage cheese (2/3 cup, blended): It’s the star here. Blending it smooth ensures creamy, melt-in-your-mouth brownies without lumps.
- Eggs: Two large eggs add structure and help bind everything.
- Maple syrup + optional sugar: Just enough sweetness, and using maple syrup keeps the moisture high.
- Almond flour: Naturally gluten-free and nutrient-dense, it adds a soft, cake-like bite.
- Cocoa powder: Unsweetened for rich chocolate flavor.
- Baking soda: Just a touch for lift.
- Vanilla extract: For that warm, rounded flavor.
- Chocolate chips: Fold some into the batter, then sprinkle more on top for those melty bites.
If you love gluten-free, nourishing treats like Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse or need a post-workout sweet like my High Protein Chocolate Pudding, this one will hit the spot.
Mix, Pour, Bake and That’s It
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a square baking dish with parchment. Blend your cottage cheese until smooth, then mix it with eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla. Add the dry ingredients, stir in the chocolate chips, and spread into the pan. Bake for 22–25 minutes until set in the center.
Let them cool if you can wait then slice into 9 squares. These cottage cheese brownies store well in the fridge, making them the perfect high-protein dessert for the week.
Get the Most Out of Your Cottage Cheese Brownies
Tips for the Perfect Fudgy Texture
If you want cottage cheese brownies that taste like they came from a bakery, here’s how to get them just right. First, always blend your cottage cheese until completely smooth. This step makes a massive difference no curds, no clumps, just that creamy base you need for a flawless batter.
Use a light hand when folding in the almond flour and cocoa powder. Overmixing can make the texture cakier than desired. If you’re after that signature chew of fudgy brownies, stop mixing once the ingredients are combined. Don’t skip the chocolate chips either they create gooey pockets and enhance the richness of this healthy chocolate treat.
Want extra chocolate flavor? Stir in a spoonful of espresso powder. It won’t taste like coffee, but it will make the chocolate deeper and more intense.
Looking for other feel-good desserts like this? Check out my Desserts or High Protein categories for similar ideas that blend nutrition with indulgence.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips
Cottage cheese brownies hold up beautifully for meal prep. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They’re even better the next day once the flavors settle especially if you’re grabbing a quick high-protein dessert after dinner or post-gym.
Want to freeze them? Wrap individual squares in parchment and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge or warm slightly in the microwave for a fast, gluten-free brownie on demand.
These cottage cheese brownies prove that better-for-you baking doesn’t have to be boring or bland.
Final Thoughts: A Guilt-Free Brownie You’ll Keep Coming Back To
These cottage cheese brownies are everything a brownie should be — rich, soft, satisfying — but with a smart twist. They prove that comfort food and smart choices can live on the same plate. With only 128 calories per square and 6 grams of protein, they’re an ideal high-protein dessert that still feels indulgent.
Whether you’re meal prepping, craving a gluten-free brownie, or just trying to add a few better habits to your sweet tooth routine, this recipe is here for it. Like my other breakfast-friendly high protein recipes, these brownies are fast, fuss-free, and deliciously nourishing.
Can you put cottage cheese in brownies?
Yes, and once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t sooner. Cottage cheese adds moisture, creaminess, and a natural boost of protein without needing butter or oil. In cottage cheese brownies, it creates that ideal balance between soft and fudgy. When blended, cottage cheese completely disappears into the batter — no chunks, no weird aftertaste.
What does cottage cheese do in baking?
In baking, cottage cheese acts as a high-protein, low-fat binder and moisture source. In high protein brownies like these, it not only adds body but helps achieve a rich texture with fewer traditional fats. It’s particularly great for healthy chocolate treats, because it keeps things creamy without sacrificing nutrition.
Can I substitute cottage cheese for oil in brownies?
You sure can. Cottage cheese works well as an oil replacement in most brownie recipes, especially in dense or fudgy types. In this recipe, it takes the place of oil entirely, helping you cut calories while boosting the protein content. It’s the perfect fit for easy protein brownies like these.
Does cottage cheese melt when you bake it?
Cottage cheese doesn’t exactly “melt,” but when blended into batters and baked, it becomes part of the texture. In these cottage cheese brownies, it transforms into a creamy structure that holds everything together — you’ll never even know it’s there, except for the soft bite and rich taste.
Can I use low fat cottage cheese?
Yes! Both low fat cottage cheese and full-fat work well. Full-fat offers a slightly smoother texture, while low-fat keeps the brownies lighter.
These cottage cheese brownies are rich, creamy, dense, and full of flavor. The whipped texture reminds me of cheesecake, while the fudgy base satisfies any chocolate craving. You can even stir in 1 tbsp of cacao powder or sweetener of choice to customize your batch. If the batter feels too thick, a splash of milk helps loosen things up without sacrificing that rich bite. The result? A deep, dark chocolate flavor that tastes far more indulgent than it really is.
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