Cottage Cheese Brownies with Chopped Almonds

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Chopped Almonds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup chopped almonds; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Rustic Inspiration

I can't get enough of these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Chopped Almonds! They’re a delightful twist on traditional brownies, combining a rich texture with the nutritional benefits of cottage cheese. Each bite offers a perfect balance of fudginess and crunch, making them my go-to treat for any occasion. The use of chopped almonds adds a wonderful nutty flavor, while the cottage cheese keeps them moist and gives them an irresistible creaminess. I promise these brownies will become a beloved recipe in your home as they have in mine!

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:02:36.012Z

Baking these Cottage Cheese Brownies was a fun experiment for me. I've always loved trying new ingredients, and using cottage cheese in brownies was something I hadn’t explored before. It not only adds moisture but also reduces the fat content, making these brownies a guilt-free indulgence!

During my tests, I found that folding in chopped almonds gave the brownies a lovely texture and a delightful crunch. Pairing the creamy batter with the nutty flavor of almonds felt like the perfect match. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist texture thanks to the cottage cheese
Nutty crunch from the chopped almonds
A healthier take on classic brownies

      

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese plays a crucial role in these brownies, contributing both moisture and a unique creaminess. Unlike traditional brownie recipes that rely heavily on butter or oil, cottage cheese offers a lighter alternative while adding protein. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the brownies a rich texture that keeps them fudgy without being overly dense. If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the cottage cheese until it’s completely creamy before adding it to the mix.

Additionally, the lower fat content of cottage cheese means you can enjoy these brownies with less guilt. For a non-dairy alternative, try using silken tofu blended until smooth. This swap maintains the moisture while adhering to a dairy-free diet. However, be mindful of the flavor profile—silken tofu is more neutral compared to the slightly tangy taste of cottage cheese.

The Importance of Chopped Almonds

Chopped almonds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the brownies, elevating their overall texture and taste. Toasting the almonds before adding them to the batter amplifies their nuttiness and gives the brownies an aromatic boost. Aim for light to medium toasting; about 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) in the oven is usually sufficient. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as nuts can go from toasted to charred quickly.

If you’re not a fan of almonds, feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts or seeds. Walnuts are a classic alternative, but pecans or even pumpkin seeds can offer an interesting twist. Just remember to chop them coarsely for the best texture without overwhelming the fudginess of the brownies.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you get started:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup chopped almonds
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Make sure to measure out all ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Here’s how to make your Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Ingredients

In a bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped almonds.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool entirely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious brownies with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some melted dark chocolate on top before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. They store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or can be refrigerated for a week. If you plan to keep them longer, I recommend freezing them. Cut the brownies into individual squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.

For a delightful serving option, you can reheat them gently, which will restore some of their freshly-baked texture. A few seconds in the microwave or a quick warm-up in the oven at low heat should do the trick. Pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can create a decadent dessert experience.

Serving Suggestions

While these brownies are scrumptious on their own, there are plenty of ways to enhance their presentation and flavor. Dusting the tops with powdered sugar or drizzling melted dark chocolate can elevate them visually and add an extra layer of taste. For a seasonal twist, consider serving them warm with fresh berries or a strawberry sauce; the contrast of tartness with the sweetness of the brownies is divine.

Additionally, you can experiment with different flavor profiles by incorporating spices like cinnamon or chili powder for a subtle kick. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can also elevate the sweetness and enhance the overall richness of each bite, making them even more irresistible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese, but this may change the texture slightly.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to replace the almonds with walnuts or pecans based on your preference.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.