Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup hazelnut butter; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 2 eggs; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter! They are the perfect blend of rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture, making them a delightful guilty pleasure. I love how the addition of cottage cheese adds protein, creating a guilt-free treat that’s still indulgent. The hazelnut butter gives every bite a nutty aroma and depth that complements the chocolate perfectly. Whether it's a dessert for guests or just a personal treat, these brownies never fail to impress everyone who tries them. You'll find yourself craving these again and again!

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:23:35.727Z

When I first experimented with these Cottage Cheese Brownies, I was skeptical about using cottage cheese in a dessert. However, after baking a batch, I quickly learned how wonderfully it works to create a moist texture without being overly rich. Each brownie is packed with flavor while still feeling light. The hazelnut butter adds a beautiful nutty richness that I never would have thought to combine with chocolate.

What really makes these brownies stand out is the balance of flavors. The hint of nuttiness from the hazelnut butter contrasts perfectly with the sweet, chocolatey brownie base. I recommend letting them cool completely before cutting for the cleanest slices. Trust me, this method makes for an Instagram-worthy dessert presentation!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor balanced by creamy cottage cheese
Nutty aroma and taste from the hazelnut butter
Simple to make and perfect for sharing with friends
A healthier twist on traditional brownies

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is an essential ingredient in these brownies, providing both a creamy texture and a boost of protein. This unique addition enhances the moisture content, allowing you to avoid traditional oils or butter often used in brownie recipes. When blended well, the cottage cheese dissolves into the batter, creating a delightfully fudgy consistency without overwhelming the chocolate flavor. It’s a clever way to make these brownies both indulgent and nutritious.

Using low-fat cottage cheese can significantly reduce the calorie count of your brownies while still maintaining that rich taste. If you prefer, you can substitute ricotta cheese in a pinch, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly, making the brownies a bit less smooth. Always aim for a smooth blend to ensure a consistent batter and avoid any lumps that could disrupt the final texture.

Tips for Perfect Brownies

Getting the baking time right is crucial. Over-baking these brownies can lead to a dry texture. Start checking for doneness at the 20-minute mark; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs attached. If you prefer a fudgier brownie, aim for a slightly shorter baking time. Keep an eye on the edges, which should be just beginning to pull away from the pan while the center remains slightly soft.

For an even more delectable treat, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped hazelnuts to the batter before baking. This creates a delightful texture and an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, you can top your cooled brownies with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a sprinkling of sea salt to enhance the overall taste profile.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start baking:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup hazelnut butter
1/2 cup cocoa powder
2 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Let's get started on making these delicious brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan.

Blend the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and hazelnut butter until smooth. Then, add cocoa powder, eggs, sugar, flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.

Pour and Spread

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.

Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then cut into squares and enjoy!

These brownies are best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgent touch, try adding chopped hazelnuts on top before baking!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for about a week. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing the brownies. Wrap them securely in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn; they can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their fudgy texture.

If you find yourself with leftovers (which might be rare!), they make for an excellent addition to dessert platters or even as a sweet snack during the week. To reheat, place the brownies in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through. This can refresh the texture, making them taste freshly baked.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert experience. You can also serve them with fresh berries, which not only add a pop of color but also a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. A dusting of powdered sugar on top can elevate their presentation, making them suitable for a special occasion or casual gathering alike.

For those who enjoy a little kick, consider drizzling the brownies with a touch of espresso or coffee syrup. The bitterness complements the sweetness of the brownies wonderfully, enhancing the overall chocolate experience. You could even experiment with flavored syrups, like hazelnut or almond, depending on your palate. Each variation can turn this simple recipe into something uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes! Low-fat cottage cheese will work just fine, but the texture might be slightly different.

→ How long can I store these brownies?

You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just allow them to cool completely before wrapping.

→ What can I substitute for hazelnut butter?

You can use almond butter or peanut butter as an alternative, but the flavor will change slightly.