Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon
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 sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup melted butter

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Recipes

I’ve always loved brownies, but when I decided to incorporate cottage cheese into my recipe, I was delighted with the results. The creamy texture of the cottage cheese adds moisture without making the brownies overly dense. This recipe blends rich cocoa with a hint of cinnamon, creating a deliciously unique dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to add more protein to my sweets, making it feel a little less indulgent and a bit more wholesome.

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:25:34.495Z

When I first thought about adding cottage cheese to brownies, I was a bit skeptical. However, after experimenting in the kitchen, I realized how well it pairs with cocoa powder and sugar to create a lovely, soft texture. The hint of cinnamon not only amplifies the flavor, but it also brings a soothing warmth to the brownies, enhancing their rich chocolate taste. The result is not just a treat; it's an experience!

One of my favorite tricks was to blend the cottage cheese until it was completely smooth before mixing it with the other ingredients. This prevents any lumps and helps to integrate it seamlessly into the brownie batter. The end result is a decadent dessert that's perfect for sharing—or keeping all to myself!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with warming hints of cinnamon
Creamy texture that adds moisture without heaviness
A delightful twist on a classic dessert for protein-conscious individuals

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Incorporating cottage cheese into brownies not only enhances their moisture content but also infuses them with a creamy richness that typical brownie batters lack. The proteins from the cottage cheese help create a fudgy texture, while also serving to lighten the overall density. By blending the cottage cheese until smooth, you ensure that there are no lumps, which could disrupt the brownie’s decadent texture.

Additionally, using cottage cheese can be a healthier alternative to traditional fat sources. It reduces the need for excessive butter or oils, and with just a quarter cup of melted butter in this recipe, you still achieve that luscious mouthfeel without sacrificing flavor. This makes these brownies an excellent option for those looking to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking your brownies, be attentive to the key indicators of doneness. You want the edges to pull away from the sides of the pan slightly, forming a light golden-brown color. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating that they are perfectly fudgy without being undercooked. Keep a close eye on the brownies as oven temperatures can vary.

To prevent your brownies from sticking, I recommend lining your pan with parchment paper or using a non-stick cooking spray. Parchment paper not only aids in easy removal but also helps keep the edges from getting too crispy while maintaining that sought-after gooey center. Letting them cool in the pan also allows the brownies to set properly, enhancing their structure for easier slicing.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Once your brownies have cooled and been sliced, consider serving them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. The warmth of the brownies combined with the cold creaminess of the ice cream creates a delightful contrast that heightens the chocolate flavors even more.

For a festive touch, dust the brownies with powdered sugar or drizzle them with a simple chocolate ganache made from melted chocolate and heavy cream. You can also experiment by adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking, accommodating various tastes and preferences. These small additions can impart different textures and flavors, making each batch of brownies unique.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start baking:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup melted butter

Once you have these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to start creating your delicious brownies!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend Cottage Cheese

In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. This will help avoid any lumps in the brownie batter.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, cocoa powder, sugars, flour, eggs, cinnamon, salt, vanilla, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 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 at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Let your brownies cool completely for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the cottage cheese with a silken tofu or a dairy-free yogurt, keeping in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly. The creaminess will still be preserved, while ensuring the brownies remain fudgy and moist. Just remember to blend the tofu until smooth, similar to how you would with cottage cheese, to maintain a lump-free texture.

For those who are gluten-sensitive, swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend can be easily done without affecting the outcome of the brownies significantly. Many gluten-free blends are formulated to mimic the properties of regular flour in baking, allowing you to enjoy these brownies without the worry of gluten.

Storing and Freezing Brownies

If you happen to have leftover brownies (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. To keep them fresh and maintain their texture, you can place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. This also helps keep the brownies from drying out, ensuring that each bite remains soft and delicious.

For long-term storage, these brownies freeze quite well. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just allow the brownies to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quick treat, warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds to reclaim that fresh-baked warmth.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to get creative with mix-ins! You can fold in a cup of chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or even dried fruits like cherries or cranberries before baking. These additions can introduce new textures and flavors that elevate your brownie experience. Adding a bit of espresso powder can also intensify the chocolate flavor without being overpowering.

For a spicier twist, think about enhancing the cinnamon flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or even a splash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Experimenting with different spices can give your brownies a unique character that pairs beautifully with chocolate, making them even more special for any dessert table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well too and will still keep the brownies moist.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.

→ What can I substitute for flour?

You can use almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend if you want a gluten-free option.