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; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter because they satisfy my sweet tooth without the heaviness that often comes with traditional brownies. The creamy cottage cheese adds a unique texture, ensuring each bite is moist and indulgent. With a hint of nutty richness from the cashew butter, these brownies are simple to whip up and make for a delightful treat any day of the week. Plus, they are a great way to sneak in some protein and enjoy something sweet without all the guilt.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:46:15.087Z

When I first experimented with cottage cheese in brownies, I was amazed at how well it pairs with chocolate. The cottage cheese creates an incredibly moist texture while adding protein—a win-win for my cravings! I also found that using cashew butter not only enhances the flavor but provides a delightful richness that offsets any potential dryness.

One tip I learned is to ensure you blend the cottage cheese thoroughly. This helps prevent any chunky bits in the brownies, resulting in a smooth and luscious batter. I also like to sprinkle some dark chocolate chips on top for added richness before baking, which takes these brownies to the next level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy cashew butter
Moist texture thanks to protein-packed cottage cheese
Perfect for a guilt-free dessert or snack any time of the day

      

A Unique Twist on Traditional Brownies

Cottage cheese is often overlooked in baking, but it serves a crucial role in these brownies. It contributes to a moist texture while adding protein, making these treats a healthier alternative to standard brownies. Instead of using butter or oil, the cottage cheese provides a creamy consistency that blends beautifully with the rich cocoa powder. You'll find that the brownies maintain a soft, fudgy interior, which is a delightful contrast to their slightly crisp top crust.

Cashew butter not only enhances the flavor profile with its nutty richness, but it also helps bind the ingredients together, adding a seamless creaminess. If you’re looking to switch things up, you can substitute almond butter or peanut butter, though they will impart distinct flavors. Whichever nut butter you choose, make sure it’s unsweetened and smooth for the best results in both taste and texture.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

When blending your ingredients, aim for a smooth, uniform mixture. This step is essential as it integrates all the flavors and ensures an even bake. If you notice lumps of cottage cheese after blending, continue until the mixture is creamy and glossy. Do not overfill the blender or food processor—work in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect consistency without straining your appliance.

As you bake the brownies, keep an eye on the edges. They should start to pull away from the sides of the pan and the top will have a slight sheen. A toothpick test is key: insert it into the center, and it should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. If you overbake, the brownies will lose their fudgy quality, so watch them closely during the last few minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create delectable brownies that will impress your taste buds!

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup cashew butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup cocoa powder
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Combine these ingredients carefully, ensuring a smooth batter for the best outcome!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter!

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Blend the base

In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, cashew butter, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Fold in chocolate chips

If using, fold in the dark chocolate chips gently with a spatula.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious brownies!

Enjoy your brownies fresh from the oven or store them in an airtight container for later!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of espresso powder to amplify the chocolate notes!

Serving Suggestions

Once cooled, these brownies make a fantastic base for a variety of toppings. Consider serving them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for added creaminess and a protein boost. You can also drizzle some melted dark chocolate or a light white chocolate ganache over the top for an elegant touch. If you're feeling adventurous, sprinkle some sea salt or crushed nuts on top for a delightful crunch that complements the brownie’s soft texture.

If you're planning to store the brownies, they can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, cut them into squares, place parchment paper between layers, and freeze them for up to two months. They thaw beautifully at room temperature, making them a convenient treat for any day.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize the flavor profile of your brownies by adding spices like cinnamon or a touch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. You could even incorporate ingredients such as shredded coconut, or swap out the cocoa powder for carob powder for a unique twist. If you’re in the mood for something fruity, fold in some mashed bananas or applesauce to add natural sweetness and moisture.

For a fun, festive version, consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chunks, or dried fruit. These ingredients not only add texture but can also contribute to the overall flavor and presentation of the brownies. By experimenting with add-ins, you can create your own signature version of these delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter or peanut butter would also work well, just be aware that it may alter the flavor slightly.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use maple syrup.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer shelf life!

→ Can I add nuts or seeds to the brownies?

Definitely! Adding walnuts or pumpkin seeds can add extra texture and flavor to your brownies.