Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup cashew butter; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup whole wheat flour; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Modern Collection

I absolutely love these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter! When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how rich and fudgy they turned out while still being packed with protein. The blend of creamy cottage cheese and smooth cashew butter creates a unique texture that satisfies any chocolate craving. Whether I'm treating myself or impressing friends at a gathering, these brownies never fail to delight. Plus, they come together quickly and easily, making them a go-to dessert for any occasion.

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:49:35.772Z

Making these Cottage Cheese Brownies was an exciting adventure for me. I started with the idea of creating a healthier version of traditional brownies, and the cottage cheese was a game-changer. It adds moisture and a hint of tanginess that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the chocolate.

When I incorporated cashew butter, I discovered not only creaminess but also a nutty flavor that elevated the entire dish. If you haven't tried using nut butter in desserts, give it a shot; it’s a magnificent twist and contributes to a velvety texture that everyone will enjoy!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Indulgent chocolate flavor with a healthy twist
Fudgy, moist texture that satisfies your cravings
Packed with protein and great for energy boosts

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key ingredient in these Cottage Cheese Brownies is, of course, cottage cheese. It not only adds moisture to the batter but also contributes to the protein content, making these brownies more nutritious compared to traditional recipes. When blended well, it creates a smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the rich cocoa powder. You can use low-fat or regular cottage cheese, but ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess moisture that can lead to a soggy brownie.

Cashew butter is another star ingredient in this recipe. It provides healthy fats and a unique flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. If you're looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter works well as a substitute, although it may alter the taste slightly. Just be cautious when measuring, as different nut and seed butters have varying consistencies that can affect the brownie’s texture.

Tips for Perfect Brownies

For the best results, avoid overmixing the batter after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture. Mix just until you see no dry flour remaining, and then gently fold in the chocolate chips. This helps maintain a tender crumb and ensures your brownies remain soft and moist throughout.

After baking, it's crucial to let the brownies cool before slicing. If you dive in too soon, they might crumble or fall apart. Cooling for about 10 minutes in the pan allows them to set properly while retaining their fudginess. If you prefer brownies that are easier to cut, you can refrigerate them for another 30 minutes after cooling for cleaner edges.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup cashew butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Now that you have everything, let's bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the cottage cheese, cashew butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in Dark Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares. Enjoy them warm or chilled!

Allow them to cool completely for the best texture before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to the batter for extra texture and flavor. You can also substitute the cashew butter with any nut butter of your choice for variation.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be served warm or chilled, making them versatile for any occasion. For an indulgent twist, serve them with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle some melted dark chocolate on top for a luxurious finish. If you're hosting a gathering, consider cutting them into smaller squares to create bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing.

For added texture and flavor, try sprinkling some chopped nuts or a pinch of sea salt on top before baking. This not only enhances the presentation but also provides a nice contrast to the rich ganache texture of the brownies. Alternatively, you can pair them with fresh berries to introduce a fruity element into your dessert.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze exceptionally well! Cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They'll stay fresh for up to three months—perfect for a quick dessert fix whenever a chocolate craving strikes.

If you're planning to make these in advance for a special occasion, consider preparing the batter a day ahead and storing it in the refrigerator before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before pouring it into the baking pan and baking as directed. This careful planning makes it easy to enjoy fresh brownies without the last-minute rush.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works just fine, although it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How do I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and they will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use agave syrup or maple syrup as a substitute.