Cottage Cheese Brownies with Peanut Butter

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Peanut Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup cane sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Cottage Cheese Brownies with Peanut Butter because they combine my two favorites: rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. The cottage cheese adds an unexpected twist that keeps them moist and gives them a unique texture. Each time I whip up a batch, I can't help but marvel at how guilt-free they feel without sacrificing any flavor. These brownies are perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth while providing a bit of protein, making them an ideal snack for any time of day.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:10:22.110Z

When I first tried Cottage Cheese Brownies with Peanut Butter, I was skeptical about using cottage cheese in a dessert. However, the result blew me away! The brownies came out with a rich texture and a surprising creaminess that was hard to resist. I learned that by blending the cottage cheese into the batter, it not only provides moisture but also enhances the protein content, making it a bit healthier.

One tip I found helpful is to use creamy natural peanut butter for a smoother consistency. This not only blends perfectly but also adds a lovely flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. Each bite is a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness that keeps everyone coming back for more!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
Surprisingly moist texture from cottage cheese
A guilt-free treat loaded with protein
Perfectly sweet without overpowering

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredient in these brownies is cottage cheese, which not only contributes to their moist texture but also adds a subtle tang that enhances the chocolate flavor. It's essential to blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth to avoid any lumps, which could disrupt the overall texture of the brownies. Using low-fat cottage cheese works well here, so you can enjoy a guilt-free treat without compromising on moisture.

Peanut butter brings a creamy richness to this recipe, which perfectly complements the chocolatey goodness. Opt for a natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the healthiest option. If you're allergic to peanuts, you can easily substitute it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but the deliciousness will remain!

Baking Tips for Success

When mixing the dry and wet ingredients, it's crucial not to overmix. Overmixing can result in dense brownies as it develops the gluten in the flour. Mix until just combined, and don’t worry if there are a few flour streaks remaining. Those will incorporate during baking, leading to a soft and fudgy texture that's incredibly satisfying.

Baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so start checking the brownies at the 20-minute mark. Look for slight cracks on the surface and a set edge with a soft, fudgy center. The toothpick test is key: it should come out clean but not dry. This ensures your brownies stay moist and flavorful.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful brownies:

Brownie Base

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup cane sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create delicious brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Base

In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. Add peanut butter, cane sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, and blend until well combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your deliciously unique Cottage Cheese Brownies with Peanut Butter!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding some chopped nuts or a swirl of additional peanut butter on top before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a zip-top freezer bag, and they can last for up to three months. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

If you want to indulge but love variety, consider mixing in nuts or different chocolate products. Chopped walnuts, for instance, add a delightful crunch. You could also try using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a deeper flavor. Experimenting with different nut butters can yield unique taste combinations while keeping the protein boost.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Cottage Cheese Brownies, serve them warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This creates a delightful contrast between the warm, fudgy brownies and the cold topping, enhancing the overall experience. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate or caramel sauce on top for an indulgent touch.

For a festive presentation, consider dusting your brownies with powdered sugar once cooled. Add fresh berries to the plate for a pop of color and a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the brownies. Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to impress!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese can be used for a lighter version of the brownies.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour?

Yes, almond flour can be used, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free flour, these brownies can be made gluten-free.