Cottage Cheese Brownies with Chopped Almonds

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Chopped Almonds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar or sweetener of choice; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped almonds

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen

I recently discovered a fantastic way to enjoy brownies without the guilt – by incorporating cottage cheese! These Cottage Cheese Brownies with Chopped Almonds have been a delightful game changer in my dessert repertoire. The cottage cheese creates a moist texture while providing a protein boost, and the chopped almonds add a delightful crunch. I'm excited to share this recipe with you because it not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also leaves me feeling good about my choices.

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:06:36.939Z

When I first made these brownies, I was skeptical about using cottage cheese. However, it completely transformed the texture, making them incredibly moist and rich. I added chopped almonds for an extra layer of flavor and a perfect crunch that complements the fudgy base. It's now my go-to dessert when I want something sweet but light.

One of the best tips I’ve learned while baking these brownies is to ensure the cottage cheese is well-blended. This prevents any lumps and guarantees a smooth batter. I love serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect dessert experience!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Moist and fudgy texture thanks to cottage cheese
Nutty crunch from chopped almonds
Perfect blend of sweetness and protein
Great for both dessert lovers and health-conscious eaters

Choosing the Right Ingredients

For these Cottage Cheese Brownies, using high-quality cottage cheese is essential to achieving a smooth texture. I recommend opting for full-fat cottage cheese, as it will contribute to a richer flavor and creaminess compared to low-fat options. Make sure to blend it well until smooth; any lumps could affect the final texture of your brownies.

When selecting cocoa powder, choose a high-quality unsweetened cocoa for the best chocolate flavor. The cocoa powder not only provides the deep chocolate flavor but also plays a critical role in achieving the brownies' fudgy texture. If you're feeling adventurous, try using dark cocoa powder for a more intense taste.

Mixing and Baking Techniques

Mixing the wet and dry ingredients properly is key to achieving the right consistency. When you combine them, do so gently until just blended to maintain that fudgy texture. Overmixing can cause the brownies to turn out dry, so mix only until you see no more dry flour or cocoa powder in the batter.

Baking requires close attention. Make sure to check your brownies around the 20-minute mark. Look for slightly risen edges and a glossy top that holds firm when gently pressed. The toothpick test should reveal moist crumbs but not wet batter—this indicates a perfectly baked brownie.

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Brownies

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar or sweetener of choice
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped almonds

These ingredients combine beautifully to create a rich and satisfying treat!

How to Make Cottage Cheese Brownies

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until smooth.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

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

Add Almonds

Fold in the chopped almonds until evenly distributed in the batter.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 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 transferring them to a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Serve these brownies warm or chilled; they taste amazing either way!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a few chocolate chips into the batter. The brownies can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These brownies store well, making them a perfect treat for meal prep. Once cooled, you can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze the brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to three months.

For an extra touch when serving, consider drizzling a simple chocolate ganache over the brownies. Melt chocolate with a bit of heavy cream until smooth and glossy, then let it cool slightly before drizzling over your brownies for a decadent finishing touch.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the add-ins for these brownies. Chopped walnuts or pecans can replace the chopped almonds for a different nutty flavor, or you can even toss in some dark chocolate chips for an extra burst of chocolate. If you're looking for a variety, try adding a tablespoon of espresso powder into the batter for a more complex flavor profile.

If you're interested in reducing sugar, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that this will slightly alter the texture; you may need to adjust the flour and cocoa ratios to maintain the right consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with another ingredient?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese for a similar texture.

→ How can I make these brownies vegan?

You can replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based sweetener.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! These brownies freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and store them in an airtight container.

→ What nut alternatives can I use?

You can use walnuts, pecans, or even omit nuts altogether if preferred.