Cottage Cheese Brownies with Toasted Almonds

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Toasted Almonds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup sugar or alternative sweetener; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup toasted almonds, roughly chopped

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I never thought I could enjoy brownies while staying on the healthier side, but these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Toasted Almonds did just that! The blend of creamy cottage cheese adds moisture and richness without overwhelming sweetness. Topped with crispy toasted almonds, they provide a delightful contrast in texture. If you're looking for a way to indulge your sweet tooth without the guilt, this recipe is perfect for you. Just wait until you take your first bite; it’s a game-changer in the dessert world!

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:34:10.453Z

When I first made these Cottage Cheese Brownies, I was skeptical about using cottage cheese instead of traditional ingredients. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how the cottage cheese made the brownies moist and rich without making them overly sweet. Using quality cocoa powder also helped achieve that deep chocolate flavor we love.

One crucial tip I learned is to fold the toasted almonds into the batter gently, ensuring they stay crisp and provide that satisfying crunch. Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy and nutty, making this a recipe I'll cherish forever!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with a nutty crunch from toasted almonds
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth and is still guilt-friendly
Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings without the heaviness

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star of this brownie recipe, providing a unique creamy texture that differs from traditional brownie batters. By blending it until smooth, you eliminate any curds, allowing the cottage cheese to meld seamlessly into the mixture. This move not only adds moisture but also reduces the overall fat content, making these brownies a healthier indulgence without sacrificing flavor.

Using cottage cheese as a base also enhances the protein content of these brownies. This means you can enjoy a sweet treat that leaves you feeling satisfied for longer. If you're looking to make these brownies even lighter, consider using low-fat cottage cheese, which will still offer plenty of creaminess without the extra calories.

Perfecting Your Brownie Texture

Achieving the perfect brownie texture requires careful attention to mixing. After adding your dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to tough brownies. You want a smooth batter that still holds some of its structure. The sweet spot is when the batter is free of flour streaks but not fully homogeneous, which allows for a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Baking at the correct temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect fudgy interior with slightly crispy edges. If your oven temperature is too high, you risk overbaking the brownies, leading to a dry texture. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness with a toothpick at the 25-minute mark, but be aware that a few moist crumbs sticking to the toothpick is exactly what you want for these brownies.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Cottage Cheese Brownies.

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup sugar or alternative sweetener
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup toasted almonds, roughly chopped

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Steps to Prepare

Follow these steps to create your delicious 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 blended cottage cheese, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well incorporated.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently until just combined.

Fold in Almonds

Carefully fold in the toasted almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!

These brownies are even more delicious the next day!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking. This contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the brownies.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies with Toasted Almonds shine on their own, but there are many ways to elevate them. Drizzling a bit of melted dark chocolate over the top adds extra richness and an elegant touch. You could also serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to create a delightful contrast between temperature and texture.

For a fun twist, consider incorporating different nuts or toppings to the brownies. Chopped hazelnuts or walnuts can easily replace the toasted almonds for a variation in flavor. You might also sprinkle some sea salt on top just before serving, which can enhance the chocolate flavor and create a wonderful sweet and salty balance.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To keep your brownies fresh, allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for about a week. The brownie flavor continues to develop as they sit, making them even more delicious after a day or two.

If you're looking to make these brownies ahead of time, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or heat them briefly in the microwave for a warm treat, making sure not to overheat and dry them out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

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

→ What can I substitute for the eggs?

You can use flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for eggs.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.