Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

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I always loved the classic brownie, but when I discovered this Cottage Cheese Brownies recipe with a hint of cinnamon, it completely transformed my baking. The addition of cottage cheese not only enhances the protein content but also gives the brownies a delightful moistness and rich texture. Paired with the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon, these brownies became a cherished staple in my kitchen. They are perfect for when you're craving something sweet yet want to keep things a bit healthier.

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:31:35.853Z

My journey into making these Cottage Cheese Brownies began out of necessity; I was looking for a healthier dessert option without sacrificing flavor. I was amazed at how the cottage cheese contributed to the creaminess, making each bite indulgent yet guilt-free. I highly recommend using full-fat cottage cheese for the best texture and flavor.

As I perfected the recipe, I discovered that adding a hint of cinnamon truly elevated these brownies. It brings warmth and depth, creating a delightful contrast to the richness of the chocolate. Don’t be surprised if they become your new favorite brownies!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Indulgent chocolate flavor balanced with comforting cinnamon
Healthier twist thanks to protein-rich cottage cheese
Moist, fudgy texture that keeps you coming back for more

      

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese serves as a key ingredient in these brownies, providing both moisture and a boost in protein. When incorporated into the batter, it contributes a creamy texture that helps create that signature fudgy consistency. Choose a low-fat or full-fat version depending on your dietary needs, but avoid using extra-large curds as they can affect the smoothness of the final product. Make sure to blend it properly; a smooth mixture is vital for uniform baking and flavor distribution.

Additionally, using cottage cheese instead of butter or oil in traditional brownie recipes is a great way to enhance nutritional value without sacrificing flavor. This swap reduces overall fat content while retaining the necessary moisture that ensures the brownies remain soft and chewy. Moreover, this ingredient introduces a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of the sugar, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Perfecting the Cinnamon Flavor

Adding cinnamon to your brownies not only brings warmth but also balances the sweetness with its natural spiciness. When measuring cinnamon, consider using a freshly ground version for a more robust flavor. Ground spices can lose potency over time, so a fresh batch can significantly elevate the taste. I recommend adjusting the quantity based on your preference; if you love a more pronounced spice, feel free to increase the cinnamon slightly beyond the original amount.

To further enhance the cinalmon flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or even a dash of espresso powder, which complements the chocolate beautifully. These additional spices can deepen the complexity of flavors in your brownies. Experimenting with these can lead to discovering your perfect brownie blend, tailored to your taste buds.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be stored at room temperature for up to three days in an airtight container. For extended freshness, refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen—wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a quick treat even weeks later; simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds before indulging.

Serve these brownies warm for a gooey experience or at room temperature for a firmer texture. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. Drizzling with melted chocolate or caramel sauce can also elevate your presentation and flavor, making them even more irresistible.

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

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

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and salt until well mixed.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider sprinkling some sea salt on top right after baking for a delightful sweet-salty contrast.

Troubleshooting Baking Issues

If you find that your brownies are coming out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or using more flour than necessary. Always keep an eye on the baking time, and check for doneness a couple of minutes before the suggested time by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.

On the other hand, if the brownies seem too gooey and underbaked, it's important to allow them to cool completely in the pan. The cooling process allows the brownies to firm up further. If you've adjusted oven temperatures or pan sizes, remember to revisit baking times as well, since they can vary accordingly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a dairy-free version, substitute cottage cheese with a similar plant-based yogurt or silken tofu blended until smooth. This swap will change the flavor slightly but can still maintain adequate moisture and texture. Additionally, consider using a vegan egg replacement to keep the recipe entirely plant-based while preserving the binding properties.

For those who prefer a sugar alternative, natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey can be used, but you'll need to adjust the wet ingredients. Reducing the oil slightly could help maintain the right batter consistency. Always remember to test the flavor as you adjust sweetness, as these substitutes can vary in sweetness levels.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to make a larger batch for gatherings or events, doubling this recipe works well. Simply use a larger baking pan, such as a 13x9 inch, and monitor the baking time closely. Larger pans may require slightly longer baking—check for doneness starting around the 30-minute mark.

Conversely, if you're aiming for a smaller batch, halving the ingredients will result in brownies that are equally delicious. Use an 8x8 inch pan, but be mindful to check for doneness just a little earlier to prevent overbaking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, but for best results, use full-fat cottage cheese to maintain the richness and moisture.

→ How should I store the leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes, feel free to fold in chopped nuts like walnuts for an extra crunch!