Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Classic Inspiration

I recently tried making Cottage Cheese Brownies with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, and the result was delightful! The combination of rich chocolate and creamy cottage cheese creates a unique texture that is both satisfying and healthy. I love how easy it is to whip up this recipe using simple ingredients that I usually have at home. Plus, the cinnamon adds a warm, comforting touch that elevates the flavors beautifully, making these brownies perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:11:35.796Z

When I first decided to make Cottage Cheese Brownies, I was a bit skeptical about using cottage cheese in a dessert. However, what I learned through the process is that it contributes a creamy texture without overwhelming the chocolate flavor. Mixing the cottage cheese with the other wet ingredients not only adds moisture but also keeps the brownies beautifully rich without the excess fat of traditional recipes.

I discovered that baking these brownies at a slightly lower temperature helped achieve a fudgy center while allowing the edges to get that perfect crispy finish. It’s truly surprising how you can enjoy a dessert that's both indulgent and a little healthier. Give these a try; I promise you won’t regret it!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Unique combination of creamy cottage cheese and rich chocolate flavor
Easily customizable with nuts or chocolate chips
A guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth
Warm cinnamon sugar topping adds a delightful crunch

      

Texture and Flavor

The unique incorporation of cottage cheese in these brownies brings a surprising and delightful texture. The creamy consistency of the cottage cheese helps to create moist, fudgy brownies that are rich in both taste and mouthfeel. Unlike traditional brownies that might be overly dense, this recipe strikes a perfect balance between a soft interior and just the right amount of structure, thanks to the flour and cocoa powder.

In terms of flavor, the natural tanginess of the cottage cheese complements the rich chocolate perfectly, providing a depth to the flavor profile that is often lacking in standard brownie recipes. The addition of vanilla extract enhances these flavors, creating a complex yet harmonious taste that is neither overly sweet nor overpowering. Each bite offers a comforting warmth that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Cinnamon Sugar Benefits

The cinnamon sugar topping adds not only a hint of sweetness but also a delightful crunch to the soft brownies. The sugar caramelizes slightly while baking, creating a flavorful contrast to the fudgy texture beneath. This simple mixture of sugar and cinnamon can also be adjusted for those who prefer a more pronounced spice flavor; try increasing the cinnamon to suit your taste.

Moreover, cinnamon is known for its health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to regulate blood sugar levels. By incorporating it into these brownies, you not only elevate their flavor but also add a nutritional bonus, making them a more balanced treat. I often find myself reaching for these brownies as a satisfying dessert that doesn’t leave me feeling guilty.

Customizations and Variations

One of the great things about these cottage cheese brownies is their versatility. Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to introduce a delightful crunch and make the brownies even heartier. Alternatively, swapping in dark chocolate chips for a richer chocolate flavor can elevate the dessert even further, making it extra decadent.

If you're looking to adapt the recipe to dietary needs, using a dairy-free cottage cheese alternative is an excellent substitution to make this recipe vegan-friendly. Additionally, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option that still maintains that fudgy consistency. Adjustments like these allow you to enjoy the brownies while catering to personal preferences or dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Ingredients for Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar

2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Once you have all the ingredients ready, let's move on to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes.

Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

While the brownies are baking, mix the sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.

Add Topping

As soon as the brownies are done, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the hot brownies.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy your warm, delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. Adjust the cinnamon sugar topping to your personal taste.

Storage Tips

These brownies stay delicious and moist when stored properly. Once they are completely cooled, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to three days without losing their delightful texture, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking or for enjoying throughout the week.

If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the brownies. Wrap individual portions 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 a brownie, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour.

Making Ahead

These cottage cheese brownies can be made ahead of time, which is especially handy for gatherings or events. You can prepare the batter the night before and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure it bakes evenly.

If you have leftover brownies, they can also be refreshed easily. For an extra treat, warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. This will reignite their fudginess and melt any chocolate chips, providing a comforting, gooey center that is utterly delightful.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your brownies are turning out too dry, it might be a sign that the batter has been overmixed. Only mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated into the wet mixture. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to a drier texture. Aim for a smooth batter without any visible dry pockets.

On the other hand, if your brownies are baking unevenly, ensure that your oven is properly calibrated. You can test this with an oven thermometer. In addition, make sure to check for doneness a few minutes before the specified baking time; the edges should pull away slightly from the pan, while the center remains slightly gooey for that classic fudgy brownie texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fat-free cottage cheese?

Yes, fat-free cottage cheese works well, though it may slightly alter the texture.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! You can freeze the brownies for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

→ How do I make these brownies sweeter?

You can add more sugar to the batter or drizzle some melted chocolate on top before serving.