Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa Nibs

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa Nibs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 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 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup cocoa nibs

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love whipping up these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa Nibs whenever I crave something sweet yet wholesome. The combination of creamy cottage cheese and rich cocoa nibs creates a delightful treat that satisfies my chocolate cravings without all the guilt. Every bite is a perfect balance of fudgy texture and a hint of crunch from the nibs. These brownies are easy to make and are always a hit with friends and family, making them my go-to recipe for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-10T10:55:44.728Z

When I first experimented with incorporating cottage cheese into brownies, I was surprised at how well it worked. The moisture from the cheese keeps the brownies fudgy without the need for excessive butter or oil. Adding cocoa nibs not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also introduces a delightful texture contrast.

I've found that letting the brownies cool completely before cutting them into squares makes a huge difference in maintaining their shape. For an added twist, consider topping them with a sprinkle of sea salt just before baking for a gourmet touch!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        A guilt-free indulgence that uses cottage cheese for added protein
Rich chocolate flavor complemented by the crunch of cocoa nibs
Easy to make with simple ingredients that you likely have at home

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The use of cottage cheese in these brownies may surprise some, but it plays a key role in providing both moisture and protein. Blending it until smooth ensures a creamy texture that melds beautifully with the cocoa powder. This not only enhances the overall fudginess of the brownies but also gives them a nutritional boost, making them a more wholesome alternative to traditional brownies.

Cocoa nibs are a fantastic addition to these brownies, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of rich chocolate flavor. Unlike chocolate chips, cocoa nibs retain the pure essence of cocoa, which complements the sweetness of the honey or maple syrup. This contrast between the fudgy texture and the nibs' crunch creates a delightful eating experience that elevates your typical brownie.

Key Baking Tips

For best results, make sure to whisk your wet ingredients thoroughly before adding the dry ones. This allows all the flavors to meld and helps the cocoa powder fully incorporate, preventing any dry pockets in the final batter. When folding in the dry ingredients, use a gentle motion; overmixing can result in dense brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture that is light yet rich.

Pay close attention to your baking time; ovens can vary significantly. Start checking your brownies at the 20-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center. You want it to come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating that the brownies are set but still gooey in the best way. This delicate balance is what makes these brownies extra special.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
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 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cocoa nibs

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, melted coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Everything

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

Add Cocoa Nibs

Gently fold in the cocoa nibs until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy them as is or topped with a scoop of your favorite ice cream!

Pro Tips

Letting the brownies cool completely before slicing helps achieve cleaner cuts. For a unique flavor twist, try adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter.

Storing and Enjoying

Once your Cottage Cheese Brownies have cooled, they're perfect for storing. If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to four days, or you can refrigerate them for a longer shelf life. The brownies will remain moist and flavorful, and the cocoa nibs will still provide that delightful crunch.

For a creative serving twist, try heating individual brownie squares briefly in the microwave until warm, then top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warm brownies will create a decadent, melty combination that's hard to resist. You can even add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt for an indulgent finish.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this brownie recipe! For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans along with the cocoa nibs. Alternatively, you can swap out the cocoa nibs for dark chocolate chips if that's your preference. Just remember that the sweetness level may increase, so you may want to reduce the honey or maple syrup slightly.

For a vegan option, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs—mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Just make sure to allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Additionally, substituting the honey with agave syrup will keep these brownies vegan while still maintaining their delicious flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the texture.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge before enjoying.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup, agave syrup, or any other liquid sweetener can be used as a replacement for honey.