Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Pieces

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Pieces
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whole wheat flour; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

Highlighted under: Cozy Cooking

I absolutely love these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Pieces! The combination of creamy cottage cheese and sweet strawberries creates a delightful treat that is both decadent and surprisingly healthy. I was searching for a way to incorporate more protein into my desserts, and this recipe has become a go-to for satisfying my sweet tooth without the guilt. These brownies are perfect for sharing, and I guarantee they won't last long at any gathering!

Created by

Isla Weatherford

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:38:37.107Z

When I first experimented with cottage cheese in baked goods, I was amazed at how well it blended into the mix while adding moisture and protein. These brownies were a revelation! The tangy crust paired perfectly with the sweetness of strawberries, and the texture was incredibly satisfying. I used fresh strawberries in this recipe, which added a burst of flavor in every bite.

One key tip I discovered is to ensure the cottage cheese is well-blended before mixing it into the brownie batter. This prevents any clumps and helps achieve that smooth, fudgy texture everyone loves. Trust me; these brownies will become a staple dessert in your kitchen!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich in protein thanks to the cottage cheese
Sweet bursts of strawberry in every bite
A guilt-free dessert you can enjoy anytime

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is often overlooked as a baking ingredient, but it plays a crucial role in these brownies. Its creamy texture provides moisture while adding a significant protein boost, making these brownies a healthier option. I recommend using a smooth variety to achieve a velvety consistency; curd-size variations can affect the texture of the final product. If you prefer, you can use ricotta cheese as a substitute, though it may alter the flavor slightly, giving it a richer taste.

Additionally, cottage cheese helps to create a fudgy texture without traditional fats and sugars. The milk proteins interact with cocoa powder to enhance the chocolate flavor, making each bite both rich and satisfying. Make sure to blend the cottage cheese well with the other wet ingredients to avoid lumps, which can disrupt the smooth finish of your brownies.

Choosing the Right Sweetener

Honey and maple syrup are both excellent sweetener choices for this recipe, offering different flavor profiles. Honey lends a more robust sweetness, while maple syrup introduces a hint of caramel undertones. If you're aiming for a vegan version, maple syrup is the ideal choice. However, if you want to reduce sugar altogether, consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol, keeping in mind that it might slightly change the texture and sweetness level.

When using either sweetener, it's essential to measure accurately. Too much liquid sweetener can lead to brownies that are overly moist, causing them to fall apart when cut. I recommend starting with the suggested amounts and adjusting according to taste; you can always sprinkle a little extra cocoa on top for a richer chocolate flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

These brownies are deliciously versatile and can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra treat, try topping them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Garnishing with a few fresh strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate your presentation at gatherings. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as these brownies are both rich and satisfying!

For storage, keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to preserve them longer, you can freeze individual squares for up to two months. To reheat, simply microwave for about 15-20 seconds to enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven taste without compromising texture. This make-ahead option makes them perfect for meal prep or spontaneous sweet cravings.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious brownies:

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

Make sure to wash and chop your strawberries fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt.

Combine and Add Strawberries

Pour the blended mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift them out and let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Pieces!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts to the batter.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your brownies come out too dense, it likely means that the batter was overmixed after adding the dry ingredients. To avoid this, gently fold just until the flour is incorporated; a few lumps are okay! Additionally, ensure accurate oven temperatures with an oven thermometer, as irregular heat can lead to uneven baking.

In contrast, if your brownies are too crumbly, check the liquid-to-dry ratios. It may help to add a touch more cottage cheese or a small amount of milk to achieve a more cohesive batter. Conversely, keep an eye on baking time; underbaking can also yield crumblier brownies.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with mix-ins to create your perfect brownie. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and complement the creamy texture of cottage cheese. Alternatively, add in a handful of chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks for a burst of extra sweetness that contrasts the tart strawberries.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider incorporating spices such as cinnamon or a pinch of chili powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. Adding a tablespoon of espresso powder can also intensify the chocolate, giving your brownies a gourmet twist!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute, although it may alter the flavor slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, feel free to use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.