Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter

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

Highlighted under: Modern Inspiration

I love experimenting in the kitchen, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter have become a favorite of mine. The combination of creamy cottage cheese and nutty hazelnut butter creates a unique texture and flavor that’s surprisingly indulgent yet wholesome. They satisfy my sweet tooth while providing an extra boost of protein. If you're looking for a dessert that's deliciously different, this recipe will surely impress both you and your guests.

Created by

Olwen Bradford

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:57:35.035Z

When I first decided to incorporate cottage cheese into a brownie recipe, I had my doubts. But the result was amazing! The cottage cheese not only adds moisture but also enhances the protein content, making these brownies a guilt-free delight. I used dark chocolate for an intense flavor, and the hazelnut butter added a wonderful nuttiness that balanced the sweetness perfectly.

As I was making these brownies, I discovered that blending the cottage cheese until smooth was key to achieving a creamy texture. I also recommend letting them cool completely before cutting, as it helps them firm up and makes for cleaner slices. Trust me, these brownies will not last long!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies your cravings
Nutty hazelnut butter adds a delightful twist
Packed with protein thanks to cottage cheese

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese plays a pivotal role in these brownies, not only enhancing the moisture content but also providing a source of protein. When blended, it contributes to a rich, creamy texture that balances beautifully with the fudgy cocoa. Compared to traditional recipes that use butter or oil, cottage cheese helps to reduce the fat content while still delivering an indulgent taste. Be sure to select a smooth variety without large curds for the best results, as it will blend more seamlessly into the batter.

This ingredient also aids in reducing the overall density of the brownie, making them feel lighter without compromising on flavor. If you're keeping an eye on health without sacrificing dessert, using cottage cheese is a fantastic substitution. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using silken tofu, which will replicate the creaminess of cottage cheese, albeit with a slightly different flavor profile.

Mastering the Baking Process

To achieve the best texture in your brownies, pay attention to the mixing process. Avoid overmixing once you've combined the wet and dry ingredients; stirring just until incorporated will help maintain a tender crumb. The addition of dark chocolate chips brings an extra layer of richness, so be sure to fold them in gently to prevent breaking them apart.

Baking time can vary based on your oven and the type of pan used. If you prefer a fudgier brownie, check for doneness around 22-25 minutes; the brownies should be set on the edges but still soft in the center. A toothpick test is reliable, though some moist crumbs attached are perfectly acceptable for that ideal fudgy texture.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup hazelnut butter
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat the oven

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

Blend the ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese and hazelnut butter until smooth. Add the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract and blend until fully incorporated.

Combine dry ingredients

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

Mix all together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.

Bake the brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and 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 15 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped hazelnuts on top before baking or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Tips

After your brownies have cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. When sealed properly, they tend to retain their flavor and moisture without becoming stale. I often place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain the soft texture, as it naturally absorbs excess moisture.

If you're looking to enjoy these brownies later, freezing is an excellent option. I recommend cutting them into squares and wrapping each piece individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-friendly bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Drizzling them with a bit of chocolate or caramel sauce can elevate their presentation and flavor. Sprinkle some chopped hazelnuts on top to enhance the nutty profile and add a contrasting crunch, which can be delightful.

For a more wholesome breakfast or snack option, try topping a brownie with some Greek yogurt and fresh berries. This combo not only adds color to your plate but also boosts the protein content. You might even experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to the batter for an extra flavor dimension in your brownies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter or peanut butter if you prefer.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I omit the cocoa powder?

Omitting cocoa powder will change the recipe significantly, so it’s not recommended.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.