Cottage Cheese Brownies with Raspberries

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Raspberries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup fresh raspberries

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first came across the idea of using cottage cheese in brownies, I was both intrigued and skeptical. However, after a few attempts, I found that it added a wonderful creaminess without the guilt of traditional desserts. The raspberries not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful pop of color. These brownies have become a go-to recipe in my kitchen, especially when I want to impress guests with something both unique and delicious.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:01:15.540Z

During my culinary adventures, I stumbled upon a recipe that incorporated cottage cheese into brownies. I was skeptical, but the resulting texture was divine—rich and fudgy without being overly heavy. The key is to blend the cottage cheese smoothly, which ensures it integrates perfectly into the mix and elevates the overall moisture level.

The addition of fresh raspberries not only contrasts beautifully with the chocolate but also adds a refreshing tartness. To make sure the raspberries don’t sink, I gently fold them in just before pouring the batter into the pan. Trust me, this simple step makes all the difference!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor perfectly balanced with tart raspberries
Creamy texture that’s unexpectedly light yet indulgent
A healthier twist on traditional brownies that everyone will enjoy

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese plays a pivotal role in these brownies, adding moisture and creating a creamy texture while reducing the overall fat content. When blended until smooth, it incorporates seamlessly into the batter, contributing to a rich mouthfeel without the heaviness of butter. This ingredient is key for achieving that guilt-free indulgence, allowing the brownies to maintain a satisfying density without feeling overly rich or cloying.

Another exciting aspect of using cottage cheese is its ability to enhance the nutritional profile of these brownies. It is rich in protein and calcium, making the dessert not only tasty but also a bit healthier than traditional recipes. If you're looking to up the nutritional value even further, consider using low-fat cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for a similar texture with added protein.

Perfecting Your Baking Technique

Baking these brownies requires attention to timing and temperature to ensure the perfect texture. When mixing the batter, be sure to not overmix after adding the dry ingredients; this helps prevent a dense, tough texture. You'll know you're ready to pour the batter into the pan when it is smooth, thick, and slightly glossy. After baking, keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking; the brownies should look set but still slightly soft in the center, with a toothpick coming out with just a few moist crumbs.

Letting the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes is crucial. This cooling period allows them to firm up a bit, making it easier to cut into clean squares. If you're in a hurry, refrigerating them for a short while can help, but be cautious as they can become too firm. Always use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges.

Ingredients

Gather these scrumptious ingredients to start your baking adventure!

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup fresh raspberries

Make sure everything is measured accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the best cottage cheese brownies ever.

Preheat Your Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and baking powder. Stir until well combined.

Fold in Raspberries

Gently fold in the fresh raspberries with a spatula, being careful not to break them too much.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy these delightful brownies as a perfect snack or dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled brownies before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerated for up to a week if you prefer a firmer texture. If you're making them in advance, feel free to wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a quick treat. I love making a big batch for gatherings, and freezing leftovers ensures I have a delicious dessert on hand whenever I crave something sweet.

Consider portioning out the batter into muffin tins for individual brownie bites. This method not only makes for easier portion control but also allows for faster baking times—approximately 18-20 minutes at the same temperature. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake, developing a slightly chewy edge that contrasts beautifully with the moist interior.

Serving Suggestions

While these brownies are delicious on their own, serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates the treat to a whole new level. For a gourmet touch, drizzle a raspberry coulis over the top to enhance those fruity flavors, or sprinkle with powdered sugar just before serving for a touch of elegance. Additionally, pairing them with fresh mint leaves can provide a refreshing contrast.

Experimenting with flavors can also yield delightful variations. Try incorporating a teaspoon of espresso powder into the batter for a mocha twist, or adding chopped nuts for crunch. Adding a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella on top before baking can create a marbled effect that adds both visual appeal and complementary flavors. The possibilities are endless while still keeping the core recipe intact!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cottage cheese gives a unique texture, you can experiment with ricotta for a creamier version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make them gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze well! Just wrap them individually and put them in a freezer-safe bag.